Principal Ranger | Tūtei Mātāmua

• 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

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]