Job Description
Monitor nature. Explore Aotearoa. Do mahi that matters
Purpose meets Adventure - this is not your average 9-5
Permanent full-times roles based in Palmerston North, Rotorua or Hokitika
Multiple Biodiversity Monitoring positions available from September 2026 - check out our Careers Site to see all listings
The salary range for this position is $65,590 to $75,589
Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Turoa
Mo te turanga | About the role
Based permanently in either Palmerston North, Rotorua or Hokitika, this is your chance to get out into some of Aotearoa's most incredible places and play a hands-on role in monitoring and protecting biodiversity. As a Biodiversity Monitoring Ranger, you'll contribute to DOC's National Monitoring Operations Programme by collecting high-quality data and supporting conservation outcomes across a range of ecosystems, projects and services.
You will:
Collect a range of data across diverse and often remote locations
Work in small, tight-knit teams in backcountry environments
Support the delivery of national monitoring programmes
Contribute to data management, reporting, and field preparation
Manage data entry, quality assurance, and reporting
Use electronic devices and systems to capture and process information
Communicate effectively with internal teams and external stakeholders
This is a practical, field-based role with opportunities to build your skills and experience while making a real impact. It requires both physical capability and strong attention to detail-balancing hands-on work in the field with thoughtful planning and data management behind the scenes.
The field season runs a unique schedule, from September to March. Typically working 12-14 days on followed by 5-6 days off, with extended backcountry deployments. During this time, you'll often be away from your home base for the duration of each trip. Outside of the field season, work shifts to planning, preparation, and supporting ongoing operations on a more regular schedule.
Think: multi-day trips, meaningful mahi, and work that positively affects our taiao.
Click here for the Role Description
Nga pukenga me nga wheako | Skills and experience
You're someone who enjoys working outdoors, thrives in a team environment, and is motivated by contributing to conservation outcomes.
We're keen to hear from you if you have:
Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in small teams
Confidence working in backcountry environment
A high level of physical fitness, including pack carrying and off-track travel
Willingness and ability to spend regular extended periods (up to two weeks) away from home
Experience in biodiversity monitoring, pest control, or field-based data collection
Attention to detail and confidence recording accurate data
Confidence using Microsoft Office Suite
A genuine commitment to working in partnership with whanau, hapu and iwi, with a strong appreciation of Te Ao Maori
A full New Zealand driver licence
Desirable:
First Aid certification
A qualification in science, conservation, or natural heritage
GIS capability (e.g. ArcGIS)
Mo te tima | About the team
The Monitoring Operations Team is a nationally distributed group with bases across Aotearoa. Each team delivers fieldwork within their region, contributing to nationally consistent monitoring programmes.
Work in small teams (typically 2-8 people)
Spend time in remote and unique environments
Be part of a supportive, passionate, and purpose-driven team
Balance fieldwork with planning and preparation in the off-season
This is a team that works hard, supports each other, and is proud of the impact they make. Check out some of the awesome mahi the field operations teams at Te Papa Atawhai contribute to: Biodiversity on Your Doorstep
He aha nga painga mou? | 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 inaianei | Apply now
Apply online with a CV and cover letter that highlights your relevant skills, experience and motivation for joining Te Papa Atawhai.
As part of your application, you will be required to complete a short questionnaire in the careers centre. Please allow additional time to complete this step.
If you require any accommodations or adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.
The salary range for this position is $65,590 to $75,589 with the starting salary of the successful applicant 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.
Next Steps in the Recruitment Process
Candidates who are shortlisted will progress to the next stage of the recruitment process, which involves completing a Vieple video submission.
Please ensure you are available to complete and submit your video interview within the required timeframe:
Invitation will be sent from: 4 June 2026
Completion timeframe: Applicants will have one week to complete the video submission from invitation date
Further instructions will be provided to shortlisted candidates.
Ra whakakapi | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Wednesday 27 May 2026.
Me he patai ano, whakapa mai | For further enquiries, please contact Loren Butler, Supervisor Biodiversity Monitoring, lbutler@doc.govt.nz
.
Purpose meets Adventure - this is not your average 9-5
Permanent full-times roles based in Palmerston North, Rotorua or Hokitika
Multiple Biodiversity Monitoring positions available from September 2026 - check out our Careers Site to see all listings
The salary range for this position is $65,590 to $75,589
Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Turoa
Mo te turanga | About the role
Based permanently in either Palmerston North, Rotorua or Hokitika, this is your chance to get out into some of Aotearoa's most incredible places and play a hands-on role in monitoring and protecting biodiversity. As a Biodiversity Monitoring Ranger, you'll contribute to DOC's National Monitoring Operations Programme by collecting high-quality data and supporting conservation outcomes across a range of ecosystems, projects and services.
You will:
Collect a range of data across diverse and often remote locations
Work in small, tight-knit teams in backcountry environments
Support the delivery of national monitoring programmes
Contribute to data management, reporting, and field preparation
Manage data entry, quality assurance, and reporting
Use electronic devices and systems to capture and process information
Communicate effectively with internal teams and external stakeholders
This is a practical, field-based role with opportunities to build your skills and experience while making a real impact. It requires both physical capability and strong attention to detail-balancing hands-on work in the field with thoughtful planning and data management behind the scenes.
The field season runs a unique schedule, from September to March. Typically working 12-14 days on followed by 5-6 days off, with extended backcountry deployments. During this time, you'll often be away from your home base for the duration of each trip. Outside of the field season, work shifts to planning, preparation, and supporting ongoing operations on a more regular schedule.
Think: multi-day trips, meaningful mahi, and work that positively affects our taiao.
Click here for the Role Description
Nga pukenga me nga wheako | Skills and experience
You're someone who enjoys working outdoors, thrives in a team environment, and is motivated by contributing to conservation outcomes.
We're keen to hear from you if you have:
Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in small teams
Confidence working in backcountry environment
A high level of physical fitness, including pack carrying and off-track travel
Willingness and ability to spend regular extended periods (up to two weeks) away from home
Experience in biodiversity monitoring, pest control, or field-based data collection
Attention to detail and confidence recording accurate data
Confidence using Microsoft Office Suite
A genuine commitment to working in partnership with whanau, hapu and iwi, with a strong appreciation of Te Ao Maori
A full New Zealand driver licence
Desirable:
First Aid certification
A qualification in science, conservation, or natural heritage
GIS capability (e.g. ArcGIS)
Mo te tima | About the team
The Monitoring Operations Team is a nationally distributed group with bases across Aotearoa. Each team delivers fieldwork within their region, contributing to nationally consistent monitoring programmes.
Work in small teams (typically 2-8 people)
Spend time in remote and unique environments
Be part of a supportive, passionate, and purpose-driven team
Balance fieldwork with planning and preparation in the off-season
This is a team that works hard, supports each other, and is proud of the impact they make. Check out some of the awesome mahi the field operations teams at Te Papa Atawhai contribute to: Biodiversity on Your Doorstep
He aha nga painga mou? | 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 inaianei | Apply now
Apply online with a CV and cover letter that highlights your relevant skills, experience and motivation for joining Te Papa Atawhai.
As part of your application, you will be required to complete a short questionnaire in the careers centre. Please allow additional time to complete this step.
If you require any accommodations or adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.
The salary range for this position is $65,590 to $75,589 with the starting salary of the successful applicant 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.
Next Steps in the Recruitment Process
Candidates who are shortlisted will progress to the next stage of the recruitment process, which involves completing a Vieple video submission.
Please ensure you are available to complete and submit your video interview within the required timeframe:
Invitation will be sent from: 4 June 2026
Completion timeframe: Applicants will have one week to complete the video submission from invitation date
Further instructions will be provided to shortlisted candidates.
Ra whakakapi | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Wednesday 27 May 2026.
Me he patai ano, whakapa mai | For further enquiries, please contact Loren Butler, Supervisor Biodiversity Monitoring, lbutler@doc.govt.nz
.
💡 Quick Summary
Seeking a career-building opportunity? The Ranger Biodiversity Monitoring (Permanent) (C-Band) position is now open for candidates interested in the Remote Jobs sector. This role in Palmerston North offers a professional environment and growth potential.
Requirement Snapshot: Candidates should possess basic communication skills, a proactive attitude, and the ability to work in a team. Experience in Remote Jobs is a plus.
