Ranger Biodiversity at Department of Conservation, Waikato

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Make a real difference for biodiversity across the iconic Tūrangi and Taupō landscape
• Contribute directly to protecting threatened species and restoring natural habitats
• Salary range: $65,590 to $76,889 depending on skills and experience
• Permanent, full-time position based in Tūrangi

Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa

Mō te tūranga | About the role
As a Biodiversity Ranger, you will contribute to a range of biodiversity work across the Central Plateau through a mix of fieldwork and office-based activities. This varied role combines hands-on conservation with planning, reporting, and administrative responsibilities, making it ideal for someone who enjoys diversity in their day-to-day work.

The position will be focussed on:

• Delivering a wide range of biodiversity work across the Central Plateau
• Threatened Species Management - Protecting and nurturing our unique flora and fauna
• Threat Management - Tackling animal pests, controlling weeds
• Building strong working relationships with contractors, volunteers, whānau, hapū, iwi, community groups, and other stakeholders
• Participating in wider district operations and supporting regional work programmes and projects as required

Click here for the Role Description

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience
We are looking for a dedicated team player who is adaptable, resilient, and passionate about protecting and enhancing the unique biodiversity across the central plateau.
If you have some of following, we are keen to hear from you:

• Ability to plan, coordinate, and deliver biodiversity and conservation work for yourself and others
• Knowledge of, or strong interest in, protecting native species, habitats, and ecosystems in the central North Island
• Experience working in partnership with community conservation groups, volunteers, iwi, whānau, and hapū to achieve shared biodiversity outcomes
• Strong communication skills with the ability to build positive relationships and effectively manage challenging situations
• Passion for conservation and a commitment to safeguarding New Zealand's unique flora and fauna
• Technology savvy; proficiency in MS Office suite, data management and reporting
• Ability to adapt to changing operational priorities
• Willingness to stay overnight, work in remote locations
• Experience in field-based conservation work, including pest control, monitoring, ecological restoration, or species management
• Flexible, patient, and able to work effectively as part of a team
• Full New Zealand Driver Licence
• Physically Fit

Desirable:

• Experience identifying and handling native flora and fauna
• Knowledge of biodiversity monitoring, ecological surveying, and data collection methodologies
• 4WD and LUV driving experience
• Growsafe Certificate
• Controlled Substances Licence
• GIS, GPS, and navigation experience
• Knowledge of pest plant and pest animal management techniques

Even if you don't tick all the boxes but believe your skills and experience closely align, then we still encourage you to submit an application.

He aha ngā pāinga mōu? | What's in it for you?
DOC places importance on developing a culture where everyone can participate, thrive, and grow. We're working towards being an organisation that is diverse, equitable and inclusive by default. You can learn more about what we offer here.

Tonoa inaiānei | Apply now
Apply online with your CV and cover letter outlining your relevant experience and motivation. We're unable to accept emailed applications or provide feedback to applicants not shortlisted.

If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, let us know and we'll try to accommodate.

Salary: $65,590-$76,589 depending on skills and experience.
Eligibility: You must hold a valid NZ work visa that covers the duration of employment.

Rā whakakapi | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Wednesday 4 November 2026
Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries, please contact Ian McNickle, Principal Ranger Biodiversity, Heritage and Visitor, imcnickle@doc.govt.nz

.