Job Description
Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role
- Conduct critical research on one of New Zealand's most threatened birds and contribute to the development of effective conservation strategies.
- Undertake challenging yet rewarding fieldwork in remote and scenic locations.
- Gain valuable research skills working with experienced scientists and biodiversity staff.
- Two full-time, fixed-term roles until 30 June 2026 based in Rangiora.
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 spaces and species across Aotearoa.
Tangata whenua are inextricably linked to the whenua and te taiao, and we desire a future where whānau, hapū and iwi can thrive in their role as rangatira and kaitiaki.
Tō tātou taiāo. Tō tātou hītori. He tāonga tūturu nō Aotearoa. Maioha rawatia. Poipoia rawatia. Tukua.
Our nature. Our history. It's New Zealand's unique legacy. Enjoy it. Enrich it. Pass it on.
He angitūtanga | About the role
We are seeking two Research Technicians to support the delivery of a research project on the Orange-fronted Parakeet/Kākāriki Karaka, one of New Zealand's rarest birds. The successful candidates will work together to identify which predators have the greatest impact on parakeets at different stages of their lives.
The positions will be focused on:
- Conducting field research at sites with Orange-fronted Parakeets, primarily in North Canterbury.
- Installing cameras to detect predators at parakeet nests.
- Banding and radio-tagging parakeets to track their movements and identify threats to their survival.
- Reviewing camera footage to identify predator species and their impact on nesting success.
- Entering scientific data and interpreting results.
- Providing technical advice within one's area of expertise.
- Documenting, updating, and reviewing protocols.
- Preparing summaries and reports.
Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience
If you have some of the following attributes, we would be keen to hear from you:
- Graduate or postgraduate degree in ecology or a related discipline
- Experience working on research projects in wildlife conservation or a similar field
- Backcountry proficiency, including multi-day field trips, off-track navigation, river crossings and outdoor risk management
- Willingness to work away from home for extended periods of time
- Strong planning and coordination skills, including scheduling field trips and organising equipment
- Ability to work independently and as part of a small team
- Ability to build effective, collaborative relationships across teams
- Comfortable engaging and working in partnership with iwi and tangata whenua
- Experience using trail cameras to monitor wildlife
- Experience identifying and surveying birds
- Experience catching, handling and banding birds, or ability to obtain certification
- Experience with VHF radio transmitters and radio tracking
- Data management, interpretation, and analysis skills
- First aid certificate
- Tree climbing certificate, or ability to obtain certification
- 4WD & LUV certificate, or ability to obtain certifications
- Full New Zealand driver licence
Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | 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.
Tono ināianei | Apply now
Apply online with a CV and cover letter that highlights your relevant skills, experience and motivation for joining Te Papa Atawhai. Please note, due to the high volume of applications, we are unable to accept direct or emailed applications and provide feedback to those not shortlisted.
If you require any accommodation or adjustments throughout the recruitment process, please do let us know.
The salary range for these positions is $60,314 to $75,603 with the starting salary of the successful applicant being 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.
Due to high volumes, we are not engaging with recruitment agencies for this role.
Rā katinga | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Tuesday 14 January 2025
Me he pātai anō | For further enquiries, contact Andrew Legault, Senior Science Advisor, alegault@doc.govt.nz
Taupānga | Job reference: DOC/1836180