Ranger

• Do you enjoy being out in nature and doing physical mahi?

• Work to ensure communities can enjoy nature now and in the future

• Permanent, full-time role based in Palmerston North with occasional regional & overnight travel

• The salary range for this position is $61,189 - $67,446

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

Mō te tūranga | About the role

How would you like to be part of a team looking after special places and species in the Manawatū District? You’ll work across a diverse landscape – from remote backcountry locations to locally treasured amenity areas and some of our more popular visitor sites.

We are looking for a practical, hands-on and collaborative individual to join our small but mighty Operations team. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working outdoors, takes pride in maintaining assets, and isn’t afraid to roll up their sleeves and get the job done.

The position is focussed on:

• Asset and track maintenance (including huts, structures and facilities)

• Planning, organising and delivering scheduled work programmes

• Supporting conservation management activities across the district

• Working well in a close-knit team but also be able to work alone in the field at times

• Being an innovative problem solver and solution finder

• Advocating, leading and promoting health, safety and wellbeing in everything you do.

• Based at our Palmerston North office, you'll be willing to travel regularly and have the ability to be away from home overnight. Basic tools and onsite work vehicles are provided.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience

We are keen to hear from you if you have:

• Proven experience in recreational asset, track and facility maintenance, with practical skills in carpentry, building or general repairs.

• Strong hands-on field experience and confidence using power equipment (e.g. chainsaws, mowers, scrub cutters, saws).

• A high level of fitness and ability to work in backcountry environments, including navigating off track.

• A keen eye for detail and commitment to maintaining assets to a high standard.

• The ability to work both independently and as part of a team, with a proactive and self-motivated approach.

• Good problem-solving skills and the ability to build and maintain effective working relationships, including with iwi and external stakeholders.

• A strong commitment to health, safety and wellbeing, including completing required safety checks and following safe work practices.

• Full New Zealand drivers’ licence.

Desirable

• Growsafe certificate

• Working at Heights certificate

• 4WD unit standards and experience

• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of Tikanga Māori and Te Ao Māori

Our Values

At The Department of Conservation, everyone’s journey is unique. Every purpose, personal. That’s why we believe your career should be more than a role… it should be a path that reflects who you are, what you value, and the difference you want to make.

Here, you’ll find more than a workplace. You’ll find a team united and guided by values that matter:

• Integrity , because trust and honesty are non-negotiable

• Empowerment , because when we lift each other, we all rise higher

• Connection , because collaboration sparks progress

• Achievement , because results mean more when they create real impact

This is a place where nature thrives because people do.

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.

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, we 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 us know.

The salary range for this position is $61,189 - $67,446 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.

Rā whakakapi | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Thursday 11th June

Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries , please contact Leeza Young, Senior Recruitment Advisor, ***email_hidden***