Ranger Freshwater Pests and Migratory Fish Species

• Protect freshwater biodiversity in Murihiku Southland: Lead conservation efforts to protect the region's unique freshwater ecosystems, including threatened galaxias species

• Collaborate for real conservation outcomes: Work alongside iwi, hapū, local councils, landowners, and community groups to deliver projects that reflect strong Treaty partnerships and make a tangible difference

• Balance fieldwork and leadership: Combine hands-on freshwater fieldwork with planning, monitoring, and reporting to achieve meaningful environmental results. 

• Permanent, full-time role based in Murihiku Invercargill 

• The salary range for this position is $68,878 to $87,265 

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

The Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai (DOC) serves to protect and restore nature across Aotearoa. When nature thrives, we all thrive. 

Ko tā Te Papa Atawhai he tiaki, he whakarauora anō hoki i te taiao puta noa i Aotearoa. He oranga taiao, he oranga tangata.  

Mō te tūranga | About the role 

In this role, you will lead the planning and delivery of vital work to protect Murihiku Southland's freshwater biodiversity. This includes a strong focus on non-diadromous galaxias species—many of which are threatened with extinction. Invercargill will serve as your base, with your mahi focused on waterways across the wider Murihiku region. 

Your work will involve planning, delivering, and reporting on freshwater biodiversity programmes, including species surveys, monitoring, and habitat management. You'll provide expert advice on freshwater conservation within statutory processes such as the Conservation Act and RMA, while actively upholding our Treaty partnership commitments. 

Collaboration is central to this role. You'll work closely with Ngāi Tahu, local councils, DOC colleagues, landowners, and community groups to develop and deliver impactful conservation initiatives. Strong communication and planning skills will help you prioritise and manage an annual work programme effectively. 

Fieldwork is a key part of this position, with travel to remote and often rugged locations. A full New Zealand driver's licence is required, and multi-day stays in the backcountry may be necessary to complete essential conservation work safely. 

Click here for the Role Description  

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience 

We are looking for someone with a passion for conservation and the ability to inspire others to engage in conservation projects. If you have some of following, we are keen to hear from you: 

• Experience with electric fishing and freshwater conservation, including sampling and monitoring methods.

• A full New Zealand driver's licence. 

• Ability to work in partnership with various stakeholders, the regional council and iwi, hapū and whānau.  

• Understanding of threatened fish conservation in Southland.

• Competence in outdoor work, with proven experience in remote backcountry environments. 

• Strong planning and organisational skills for both field and office-based work 

• Proficiency in MS Office, data management, and reporting. 

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to adapt to different audiences. 

• The ability to work both independently and as part of a small team. 

• Experience with GIS, GPS, and other conservation-related technology. 

• 4WD qualification. 

• First aid certification. 

• Knowledge of conservation compliance and relevant National policies (e.g., NPS-FM, RMA, Crown Pastoral Land Act). 
   

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.  You can learn more about what we offer here. 

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 $68,878 to $87,265 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. 

Due to high volumes, we are not engaging with recruitment agencies for this role.  

Rā whakakapi | Applications close at 11:00pm on Tuesday 2 December 2025

Depending on the volume of applications received, we may close this advertisement early, so please submit your application as soon as possible. 

Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries, please contact Sean Jacques, Principal Ranger Biodiversity,