• Unique opportunity to manage the day-to-day operation of the takahē recovery programme's breeding centre in Southland, working alongside a fantastic group of people contributing to one of New Zealand's most high-profile species recovery programmess!
• The salary range for this position is $60,314 to $75,603.
• Permanent, full-time live-in position based at the Burwood Takahē Centre, 30mins from Te Anau on the doorstep of Fiordland National Park.

Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa
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
As site lead, you will be based at the Burwood Takahē site, working a five-day week (Monday-Friday). Rental accommodation (single occupancy) will be made available.
You will work closely with the Supervisor and Senior Ranger to manage and deliver a successful work programme, focusing on the breeding and care of takahē, alongside maintaining site infrastructure. You'll lead a small, dedicated team, ensuring their work is well-organised, safe, and aligned with our conservation objectives. Your tasks will include maintaining facilities and technical equipment, feeding and monitoring the health of takahē, predator control, data management, handling supply logistics, and managing volunteers.
You'll play a key role in upholding our high standards of health and safety, while collaborating closely with local iwi and fostering a positive, inclusive environment for your team.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience
The mahi is challenging yet extremely rewarding, undertaken in an amazing environment with plenty of opportunities to collaborate with dynamic stakeholders.
If you have the following attributes, we are keen to hear from you:

• confident communicator with the ability to foster strong collaboration
• experience in conservation field work
• ability to lead field teams and daily operations
• skilled in bird health monitoring and handling
• experience managing infrastructure maintenance
• ability to deliver infrastructure projects including familiarity with fencing/carpentry
• computer savvy with experience in excel and databases
• ability to accurately collect, store data and produce reports
• a strong health and safety focus
• ability to work in an isolated setting
• ability to foster positive relationships with whānau, hapū, iwi
• full Driver's license, and able to drive both manual and automatic vehicles

Desirable:

• a current First Aid Certificate and / or OPHEC is desirable but not required, as training will be provided for the right candidate
• four-wheel drive and/or LUV competency
• herbicide use competency & certification

Mō te tīma | About the team
You will be part of the Regional Operations Team – Kākāpō/Takahē and will work with other members of the team based in Invercargill, Te Anau and kākāpō takahē sites nationwide. The team includes technical, scientific, infrastructure, logistics, technology, advocacy and field-based roles.
Read more about our Burwood Takahē Centre here Burwood Takahē Centre: Takahē Recovery Programme (doc.govt.nz)
To find out more about taonga takahē and the work DOC delivers, please visit our webpage: Takahē: NZ native land birds (doc.govt.nz)

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
Depending on the volume of applications received, we may close this advertisement early, please submit your application as soon as possible.
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 accommodations or adjustments throughout the recruitment process, please do let us know.
The salary range for this position 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.
Rā katinga | Applications close at 11:59pm on Wednesday 30 October
Me he pātai anō | For further enquiries, please feel free to contact Nichollette Brown, Supervisor at nibrown@doc.govt.nz or 027 204 3806
Taupānga | Job reference: DOC/1825557