Biodiversity and Education Field Coordinator

Biodiversity and Education Field Coordinator Whakatipu Wildlife Trust – Queenstown, South Island Whakatipu Wildlife Trust is a community conservation charity working across the Queenstown region. Our mission is to create and maintain a predator free environment throughout the greater Lake Whakatipu area to enable our birds and other native wildlife to flourish. Our work is part of the Predator Free New Zealand 2050 goal, and we are a founding member of Southern Lakes Sanctuary. We are seeking a passionate and dedicated Biodiversity and Education Field Coordinator to join our small but mighty team. This is a contract position based in Queenstown, Otago , offering an exciting opportunity to contribute directly to biodiversity conservation and environmental education initiatives in one of Aotearoa's most spectacular regions. In this role, you will be instrumental in delivering field-based conservation programmes and educational activities in the community that promote wildlife protection and environmental awareness. You will work at the intersection of practical conservation work and community engagement, helping to inspire the next generation of conservation advocates whilst actively contributing to the protection of our region's unique indigenous wildlife. Key responsibilities Coordinate and deliver field-based biodiversity monitoring programmes with community volunteers to assess ecosystem health and species populations As part of our local C3 education collective, deliver conservation education activities for school children Assist with predator free initiatives, including backyard trapping outreach, new trapline planning and implementation, and volunteer trapper support Help us run community conservation outreach, citizen science events, public talks and workshops Support the development and implementation of educational resources and public communications for various audiences Collect and analyse field data, maintain accurate records and contribute to conservation research projects such as monitoring tool trials Contribute to project reporting and documentation of conservation outcomes and educational engagement metrics Maintain field equipment and ensure compliance with health and safety protocols during all outdoor activities What we’re looking for Strong knowledge of New Zealand native flora and fauna, particularly species and ecosystems of the Central Otago region Demonstrated experience in field-based conservation (especially predator control and biodiversity monitoring), education or volunteer coordination Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage and inspire diverse audiences, including school groups and community members Physical fitness and willingness to work outdoors in variable weather conditions Competence in data collection, recording and basic data analysis methods A valid driver's licence and own reliable vehicle, phone, and computer Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment First Aid certificate or willingness to obtain it Ability to pass a police vet for working with children is essential Experience with Trap NZ, GIS mapping, bio-acoustic software would be advantageous Experience with social media communications and existing connections in the Queenstown community is desirable What we offer At Whakatipu Wildlife Trust, you will be joining a close-knit, passionate team at the heart of community conservation in beautiful Queenstown. This is a new role created to support the expansion of our biodiversity monitoring, education, and community engagement work, and you will have the opportunity to help shape how we deliver it. The role offers varied, interesting work across fieldwork, education, community engagement, and strategy — no two weeks will look the same. You will have the autonomy to manage your own time across a flexible field and home-based working arrangement, while being well-supported by the Executive Officer and the wider WWT team. We are committed to your professional development and to fostering a supportive, inclusive environment where your contributions are valued. While this is initially a 12-month contract, we anticipate extending the arrangement with the right person beyond that first year. #J-18808-Ljbffr