Island Ranger Te Pakeka | Maud Island

External Job Vacancy with Te Papa Atawahi | Department of Conservation (DOC). DOC serves to protect and restore nature across Aotearoa. When nature thrives, we all thrive. Ko tā Te Papa Atawhai he tiaki, he whakarauora anō hoki i te taiao puta noa i Aotearoa. He oranga taiao, he oranga tangata.

• Maintain the heartbeat of Te Pakeka – ensuring the island remains thriving and predator-free.
• Wake up surrounded by nature on a predator-free island sanctuary.
• 3-year, full-time role based on Te Pakeka / Maud Island with option to extend.
• The salary range for this position is $65,070 to $75,981
• Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa

Mō te tūranga | About the role

Te Pakeka / Maud Island (309 ha) is a predator-free Scientific Reserve that shelters a remarkable diversity of endemic flora and fauna. Ngāti Kuia hold the kaitiakitanga role to uphold the cultural, spiritual, and environmental integrity of Te Pakeka. The Department of Conservation works alongside Ngāti Kuia to protect and preserve the island’s unique species and heritage values.

As the Island Ranger, you’ll lead the day-to-day DOC operations on Te Pakeka. Your responsibilities will include maintaining visitor facilities and historic sites, controlling plant pests, supporting threatened species recovery programmes, and ensuring strict island biosecurity standards are upheld. You’ll also maintain island infrastructure, coordinate logistics for visitors and staff, and assist Ngāti Kuia in achieving their aspirations for the island.

Initial term of three years, with the possibility of extension for up to five years by mutual agreement.

You’ll be based full-time on Te Pakeka, with accommodation available.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience

DOC are looking for a capable, self-sufficient ranger with strong practical and relationship skills who thrives in remote environments and is passionate about island conservation.

If you have some of the following, DOC are keen to hear from you:

A full New Zealand driver’s licence. Practical conservation experience in areas such as threatened species management, pest control or eradication, habitat restoration, biosecurity, and infrastructure maintenance. Competence in managing visitor facilities and hazards, providing biosecurity briefings, and ensuring a safe, positive visitor experience. Collaboration and communication skills to build and maintain positive relationships with iwi, whānau, hapū, colleagues, contractors, and visiting researchers. Commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and understanding of te ao Māori, tikanga, and te reo Māori appropriate to the role. Physically fit Proficient in the use of a wide variety of computer software programmes, e.g. Outlook, Word, Excel. Experience living or working in remote field stations or island ecosystems will be an advantage, as will qualifications or training in conservation, ecology, or natural resource management. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to adapt to different audiences. Desirable:

Experience with GIS, GPS, and other conservation-related technology. 4WD qualification. First aid certification. Even if you don’t tick all the boxes but believe your skills and experience closely align, then we still encourage you to apply.

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. DOC are working towards being an organisation that is diverse, equitable and inclusive by default. You can learn more about what they offer by visiting their website.

Tonoa inaiānei | Apply now

Apply online with a CV and cover letter that highlights your relevant skills, experience and motivation for joining Te Papa Atawhai. Please note, due to the high volume of applications, DOC are unable to accept direct or emailed applications and provide feedback to those not shortlisted.

If you require any accommodations or adjustments during the recruitment process, please let DOC know.

The salary range for this position is $65,070 to $75,981 with the starting salary of the successful applicant being based on their relevant skills and experience.

Eligibility to work in New Zealand is mandatory – this includes holding a valid work visa that covers the whole period of employment.

Due to high volumes, DOC are not engaging with recruitment agencies for this role.

Rā whakakapi | Applications close

11:59 pm on Tuesday 20th January 2025.

Depending on the volume of applications received, DOC may close this advertisement early, so please submit your application as soon as possible.

Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai

For further enquiries, please contact Dave Hayes, Operations Manager, dhayes@doc.govt