Lead people and biodiversity programmes across the Marlborough Sounds
Permanent role | Salary range - $93,656 - $118,510
Based in Picton, with world-class conservation opportunities on your doorstep
Shape conservation outcomes, overseeing boat-based operations, predator free islands and threatened species work.
Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa
Mō te tūranga | About the role
The Department of Conservation protects and manages Aotearoa New Zealand's natural and historic heritage for the benefit of present and future generations. As part of this, the Regional Operations Group delivers the frontline conservation work that protects and enhances the places, species, and ecosystems entrusted to DOC.
Reporting to the Operations Manager, the Principal Ranger is a key operational leadership role responsible for leading district-based teams and delivering priority work programmes that achieve meaningful conservation outcomes across the region.
Based in Picton, the biodiversity programme is incredibly diverse. One day you could be involved in boat-based field operations, predator-free island initiatives, threatened species recovery or ecosystem restoration. The Sounds contains important island sanctuaries and nationally significant biodiversity projects, making it a place where your work genuinely makes a difference.
The position will be focussed on:
Recruiting and onboarding staff and building a positive and collaborative team environment
Planning, scheduling and assigning work across a diverse range of biodiversity programmes, including boat-based operations, predator free island initiatives, and threatened species management, ensuring work is delivered within timelines and budget
Being part of the District Leadership Team and contributing to decisions around resources and priorities
Understanding and respecting the importance of the work for Māori/ iwi, fostering positive working relationships to reach mutually beneficial outcomes
Managing budgets and financials; tracking outputs, outcomes, and risks
Collaborate across internal teams and with our community partners
Lead by example by building strong relationships and consistently acting with integrity in everything you do
Click here for the Role Description
Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience
If you have some of the following, we are keen to hear from you:
an experienced people leader who is skilled at empowering, motivating, and creating a positive team culture
strong financial and resource management skills
comfortable leading and supporting operational field delivery in varied and sometimes remote environments
A strong and proactive communicator and collaborator, you build strong internal and external relationships with ease
project and contract management experience
Boat Master qualification advantageous
ability to work alongside whānau, hapū, iwi collaboratively and effectively, as well as the community, businesses, and others.
He aha ngā pāinga mōu? | What’s in it for you?
Imagine a role where your workplace stretches from native forest to secluded islands and sparkling coastal waterways. Based in Picton, you'll enjoy an unmatched lifestyle with the Marlborough Sounds on your doorstep, access to world-class outdoor recreation, and the opportunity to lead conservation programmes that protect some of New Zealand's most important biodiversity. It's a place where meaningful work and an exceptional quality of life go hand in hand
DOC is committed to a culture where everyone can participate, thrive, and grow. We’re driven by our values and behaviours, and are working towards being an organisation that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive by default.
Want to know more?
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: $93,656 - $118,510, 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 Tuesday 22nd September. This advert may close early, so please apply promptly
Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries, please contact Leeza Young, Senior Recruitment Advisor, [email protected]
Skills Required
- Experience as a people leader, including empowering and motivating teams and building a positive team culture
- Strong financial and resource management skills
- Experience leading or supporting operational field delivery in varied and sometimes remote environments
- Strong communication and collaboration skills, including building internal and external relationships
- Project and contract management experience
- Ability to work collaboratively with whānau, hapū, iwi, community, and business stakeholders
- Boat Master qualification
- Valid New Zealand work visa covering the duration of employment
What We Do
The New Zealand Department of Conservation (DOC) is a government agency responsible for conserving Aotearoa New Zealand’s natural and historic heritage. It protects and restores nature, leads biodiversity efforts, manages conservation lands and resources, and enables others to contribute to conservation outcomes. DOC also administers relevant conservation legislation and supports the stewardship of land, water, wildlife, and historic places across New Zealand.
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