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Posted 30 July, 2026

Ranger Biodiversity (Tara Iti) (Fixed-Term)

Department of Conservation - Te Papa Atawhai
Warkworth, AUK, NZ Full Time
Reference: 7480442403796ba9

Job Description

Spend your summer working on conservation of New Zealand’s rarest endemic breeding bird Salary range $65,590 - $76,589 depending on skills and experience Full time, fixed-term role based in either Auckland, Warkworth or Whangārei from September 2026 - February 2027 Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa About the role The New Zealand Fairy Tern/ Tara iti is New Zealand’s rarest endemic breeding bird. There are currently fewer than 45 birds left in the population. The survival of this species is supported by a dedicated team of DOC staff. We are looking for capable, passionate people to join our team for the summer and work to protect the tara it breeding and captive rearing sites. These sites are dotted throughout Auckland and Northland and could include Pāpakanui, Pākiri, Te Ārai, Mangawhai and Waipū. Induction and training are provided. This is a full-time 40hr per week role with a 5-day roster which includes working on weekends with two days off during the week. You may occasionally be asked to provide out-of-hours support in case of emergency. The position will be focussed on: Monitor and protect tara itibreedingpairs,eggsand chicks Supporting the program by providing extra resource across both wild breeding sites and our captive‑rearing program Carry out bird and nest observations Fish husbandry and provision of live fish for the captive rearing program Undertake predator control including trapping and dispatch of predators Assistwith nest protection and emergency management Coordinate set‑up and pack‑down of sites Engage with the public through advocacy, education, and compliance Prepare weekly updates andcontribute toend‑of‑season reports Assistwith site maintenance and infrastructure Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience If you have some of following, we are keen to hear from you: Strong observation and monitoring skills in field environments Ability to work independently and as part of a small team Self‑motivated witha good workethic Comfortable working outside Experience in predator control including trap maintenance Strong communicationskills, including working with volunteers and the public Ability to prioritise tasks, adapt, and problem‑solve in dynamic situations Good written communication skills and ability to produce reports Competency using Microsoft Office and basic data recording tools Full New Zealand driver’s licence Even if you don’t tick all the boxes but believe your skills and experience closely align, then we still encourage you to apply. 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. 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. The salary range for this position is $65,590 - $76,589 with the starting salary of the successful applicant being based on their relevant skills and experience. Applications close at 11:59pm on Monday 10August. For further enquiries, contact Kate Sparks [email protected] 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. Our people bring this vision to life. Spread across Aotearoa, they care for our land, water, and native species. From frontline rangers and technical experts to vital support teams – we have a diverse range of roles. Read more about DOC #J-18808-Ljbffr

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