• Exciting and rare opportunity to make a real difference by engaging with the public and showcasing the incredible mahi done for the Kākāpō and Takahē Recovery Programmes.
• The salary range for this position is $68,535 to $86,423, with an expected start date in late January 2025.
• Permanent, full-time role based in Te Anau or Invercargill, flexible working supported.

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
Join our team as the narrator and central point of communication for the Kākāpō and Takahē Recovery Programmes. You will lead the strategic development and delivery of advocacy for these taonga species, overseeing media engagement (print, web, social media, and film), partnership support, media permissions, and fundraising initiatives like the Kākāpō adoption programme!
The position will be focussed on:

• working with national and international networks to tell our recovery stories, building a strong support base
• engaging with whānau, hapū and iwi to maintain strong relationships and grow opportunities for shared storytelling
• building strong relationships with our partners Meridian Energy and Fulton Hogan
• providing communication support for the team for a range of aspects from annual reports to event support – e.g. translocations
• coordinating media inquiries in collaboration with our media team supporting team members to deliver on advocacy-focused tasks
• delivering advocacy-focused reports based on your workplan
• support the Operations Manager with media related concessions.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience
If you have some of following, we are keen to hear from you:

• outstanding communication, negotiation, and advocacy skills
• proficiency in using social media platforms
• a passion for conservation advocacy and sharing stories
• the ability to work independently and as part of a team
• IT savvy with knowledge of the Microsoft Office Suite
• ability to deliver consistent, professional performance in high-pressure situations
• proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with a variety of stakeholders
• team focused, with the ability to work well with others and contribute positively to team culture
• a current Full Driver's license, and able to drive both manual and automatic vehicles.

Desirable:

• experience working on social media communications
• knowledge of brand communications and their impact
• experience maintaining web-based platforms and using a various digital media.

Mō te tīma | About the team
You'll be part of the Regional Operations Team – Kākāpō Takahē, reporting directly to the Operations Manager, and will collaborate closely with teams based in Te Anau, Invercargill, and at kākāpō & takahē sites nationwide. You'll join a tight-knit group of dedicated individuals who foster a positive team culture and strive for excellence in conservation practice.
Click here to learn more about our Takahē recover programme!
Click here to learn more about our Kākāpō recover programme!

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 accommodations or adjustments throughout the recruitment process, please do let us know.
The salary range for this position is $68,535 to $86,423 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.
Expected Start Date Late January 2025
Expected Interview dates Monday 25 and Tuesday 26 November
Rā katinga | Applications close at 11:59pm on Wednesday 6 November
Me he pātai anō | For further enquiries, please feel free to contact Deidre Vercoe, Operations Manager at dvercoe@doc.govt.nz
Taupānga | Job reference: DOC/1825838