Whitebait Fishery Engagement Coordinator (Fixed Term)

Whitebait Fishery Engagement Coordinator (Fixed Term) Department of Conservation NZ – Wellington, North Island Unique opportunity to work with passionate stakeholders, develop innovative engagement approaches, and make tangible contribution to freshwater conservation outcomes Play a key role in helping DOC achieve its objectives for sustainable fishery management and freshwater conservation Full-time, fixed term role until end of December 2026; flexible location Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa Mō te tūranga | About the role We have a unique opportunity for an experienced and passionate engagement and communications professional to contribute to conservation outcomes. As Whitebait Fishery Engagement Coordinator, you'll be part of our Freshwater Species Team where you'll lead and coordinate engagement, communication and education initiatives that support whitebait fishery management through the whitebait fishing season. This role sits at the heart of the relationship between DOC and New Zealand's whitebaiting community, helping ensure the voices of whitebaiters are heard while supporting the sustainable management of whitebait species. The position will be focussed on: Delivering the annual whitebait season communications and engagement campaign Building relationships with whitebaiters and stakeholders Developing and maintaining ongoing communication channels, including e-newsletters, webinars, web content, intranet pages and stakeholder communications Managing the whitebait inbox and support resources to stakeholder enquiries and official correspondence Scoping and developing educational resources and tools about whitebait regulations and responsible fishing practices Maintaining internal awareness of whitebait fishery management priorities and activities across DOC Contributing to annual planning, reporting and continuous improvement activities Support to operational teams with delivery of compliance activities, and engagement with mana whenua Preparing media messaging and supporting national level communication and engagement This is a full-time, fixed term role until end of December 2026 with a flexible location. We're looking for someone who is a skilled communicator and relationship builder who can work effectively with a wide range of people and perspectives. You'll need to enjoy working autonomously and thrive in a fast-paced environment. If you have some of following, we are keen to hear from you: Proven experience in stakeholder engagement and communications roles Strong collaboration skills and ability to work with different functions within an organisation Solid written communication skills and the ability to synthesise complex information into clear, accessible messages Good judgement and the ability to identify underlying stakeholder concerns, interests and opportunities Ability to build trust and credibility with diverse audiences Experience planning and delivering engagement programmes or communication campaigns A proactive, solutions-focused mindset and a commitment to adding value A science background would be advantageous Understanding of whitebait fishery DOC is committed to a culture where everyone can participate, thrive, and grow. We're driven by our values and behaviours, and are working towards being an organisation that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive by default. We also support flexible working arrangements for our kaimahi across Aotearoa, with options considered based on the role and in discussion with your leader. Salary: $80,695-$101,951, depending on skills and experience. Eligibility: You must hold a valid New Zealand work visa that covers the duration of employment. Rā whakakapi | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Sunday, 9 August 2026 Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries , please contact Emily Funnell at ********@doc.govt.nz #J-18808-Ljbffr