Posted 01 August, 2026
Ranger (Tara iti) (Fixed-Term)
DOC
Auckland, AUK, NZ
Full Time
Reference: 45a9bf7c96adfadc
Job Description
Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Spend your summer working on conservation of New Zealand’s rarest endemic breeding bird. Salary range $61,189 - $67,446 depending on skills and experience. Full time, fixed-term role based in Auckland, Warkworth or Whangārei from September 2026 – February 2027. 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 iti breeding pairs, eggs and chicks Undertake predator control including trapping and dispatch of predators Assist with nest protection and management Liaise with volunteers to coordinate site activities Engage with the public through advocacy, education, and compliance Prepare weekly updates and contribute to end-of-season reports Support work across multiple breeding sites as required Assist with 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 with a good work ethic Comfortable working outside Strong communication skills, 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 He ahangāpāingamōu? |What’sin 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. For further enquiries, contact Kate Sparks [email protected] The salary range for this position is $61,189 to $67,446 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. Applications close at 11:59 pm on Monday 19 August. Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr