Team Leader (Conservation) - Kūmānu - Nelson

Lead a hands‑on conservation crew delivering pest plant control and revegetation projects, and making a lasting impact across Nelson/Tasman. Kūmānu is dedicated to enhancing te taiao — our natural environment — through practical conservation and ecological restoration. We’re looking for an experienced Team Leader, or someone ready to take the next step in their career, to lead a hardworking crew delivering pest plant control and revegetation projects. This role offers a balance of hands‑on field work and time in the office. Your passion for working in the outdoors will see you turning your hand to a broad range of tasks, while your computer skills will support the administrative side of the role indoors. You’ll be approachable, supportive of your team, and confident building positive working relationships with new and existing clients. You’ll be part of a team making a visible, lasting impact on the Nelson/Tasman region. What you’ll be doing Leading and motivating a field‑based team to deliver high‑quality projects Coordinating safe and efficient daily operations Overseeing delivery of conservation and landscaping type projects which may include pest‑plant control, planting, vegetation management and aftercare Training and supporting staff in the safe use of equipment such as scrub bars, chainsaws, and knapsack sprayers Encouraging teamwork, maintaining strong communication, and promoting productivity Growing and developing relationships with new and existing clients. What you’ll bring Proven experience in an outdoor role such as landscaping, forestry or horticulture The ability to inspire, organise, and guide others through hands‑on work A practical mindset, strong communication skills, and commitment to teamwork Chainsaws, scrub bars and herbicide application (preferred) Plant ID – including pest plant and native species (preferred) Relevant qualifications (chainsaw, Growsafe, first aid) (preferred) Experience with excavators or other tracked machinery (preferred). What we offer Strong team culture and support Training and development to enable success Budget management development Health safety focus with a dedicated support team Competitive salary Commuter use vehicle Laptop and mobile phone for work use All PPE provided. Please note that applicants must have a current full drivers’ licence, NZ residency/citizenship or a valid NZ work visa and will be required to undergo pre‑employment medical and drug screening, as well as a Ministry of Justice police check and an ACC check. #J-18808-Ljbffr