Ranger

Full job description
Do you enjoy being out in nature and doing physical mahi?

Work to ensure communities can enjoy nature now and in the future

4 weeks + 3 days annual leave per year, flexible working options

Permanent, full-time role based in Palmerston North with occasional regional & overnight travel

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.

He angitūtanga | About the role

How would you like to be part of a team looking after special places and species, in the Manawatu District,working in a mix of remote backcountry locations, locally treasured amenity areas and some of our more popular visitor sites?

We are looking for a dedicated and collaborative individual to join our team. You’ll work as part of a small but mighty Operations team, working to provide safe, high-quality heritage and visitor initiatives assets amongst te Taiao.

The position is focussed on:

Planning, organising and completing scheduled work plans

Asset maintenance and conservation management, which requires a high level of fitness and a know-how-can-do attitude

Working well in a close-knit team but also be able to work alone in the field at times

Being an innovative problem solver and solution finder

Advocating, leading and promoting health, safety and wellbeing in everything you do.

Based at our Palmerston North site workshop, you'll be willing to travel regularly and have the ability to be away from home overnight. Basic tools and onsite work vehicles are provided.



Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience

We are keen to hear from you if you have:

Proven experience in recreational asset maintenance/management

Proven experience in carpentry, building and facilities maintenance

An eye for detail to ensure all our assets are constructed and maintained to a high standard.

Hands on practical field experience and understanding of field delivery work.

Experience in the use of power equipment, eg chainsaws, mowers, scrub cutters, electric barrows, skill saws and drop saws, etc.

Ability to work in back country environments with a high level of fitness and ability to navigate off track.

Ability to build and maintain good working relationships.

Ability to identify and solve or escalate issues.

Committed and motivated to work without constant supervision.

The ability to work in true partnership with others across DOC and external stakeholders including local whānau, hapū and iwi.

Full New Zealand drivers’ licence.

Desirable

Growsafe certificate

Working at Heights certificate

4WD unit standards and experience

Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of Tikanga Māori and Te Ao Māori

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.

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 or provide feedback to those not shortlisted.

The salary range for this position is $ 65,070 – $ 75,981 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.

Rā whakakapi | Applications close: 11:59 pm on Monday 5 January 2026

Me he pātai anō | Further enquiries contact Kelly Hancock, khancock@doc.govt.nz