Research Technician

Research Technician (Fixed Term) x2 at Department of Conservation, RangioraConduct critical research on one of New Zealand's most threatened birds and contribute to the development of effective conservation strategies.Undertake challenging yet rewarding fieldwork in remote and scenic locations.Gain valuable research skills working with experienced scientists and biodiversity staff.Two full-time, fixed-term roles until 30 June 2026 based in Rangiora.Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Turoa The Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai (DOC) serves to protect and restore nature spaces and species across Aotearoa.
Tangata whenua are inextricably linked to the whenua and te taiao, and we desire a future where whanau, hapu and iwi can thrive in their role as rangatira and kaitiaki.
We are seeking two Research Technicians to support the delivery of a research project on the Orange-fronted Parakeet/Kakariki Karaka, one of New Zealand's rarest birds. The successful candidates will work together to identify which predators have the greatest impact on parakeets at different stages of their lives.
The positions will be focused on:
Conducting field research at sites with Orange-fronted Parakeets, primarily in North Canterbury.Installing cameras to detect predators at parakeet nests.Banding and radio-tagging parakeets to track their movements and identify threats to their survival.Reviewing camera footage to identify predator species and their impact on nesting success.Entering scientific data and interpreting results.Providing technical advice within one's area of expertise.Documenting, updating, and reviewing protocols.Preparing summaries and reports.If you have some of the following attributes, we would be keen to hear from you:
Graduate or postgraduate degree in ecology or a related disciplineExperience working on research projects in wildlife conservation or a similar fieldBackcountry proficiency, including multi-day field trips, off-track navigation, river crossings and outdoor risk managementWillingness to work away from home for extended periods of timeStrong planning and coordination skills, including scheduling field trips and organising equipmentAbility to work independently and as part of a small teamAbility to build effective, collaborative relationships across teamsComfortable engaging and working in partnership with iwi and tangata whenuaExperience using trail cameras to monitor wildlifeExperience identifying and surveying birdsExperience catching, handling and banding birds, or ability to obtain certificationExperience with VHF radio transmitters and radio trackingData management, interpretation, and analysis skillsFirst aid certificateTree climbing certificate, or ability to obtain certification4WD & LUV certificate, or ability to obtain certificationsFull New Zealand driver licenceApply 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 accommodation or adjustments throughout the recruitment process, please do let us know.
The salary range for these positions is $60,314 to $75,603 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.

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