• Be at the forefront of biodiversity conservation, conducting cutting-edge research that directly influences New Zealand's environmental policies and practices.
• Enjoy a dynamic work environment that combines fieldwork in New Zealand's unique ecosystems with data analysis and collaborative project work.
• Gain valuable experience working alongside renowned scientists and biodiversity experts, with opportunities to contribute to scientific publications and cross-agency initiatives.
• The salary range for this position is $68,535 to $86,423.
• Ten to Eleven month fixed-term, full-time role based in Christchurch (starting as soon as possible and ending 14th September 2025).

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 a dedicated Science Technician to support our banded dotterel flyways research project, which forms part of the Department's Mobile Terrestrial Threatened Species Workstream. The successful candidate will work closely with Mobile Workstream staff and our international collaborator Max Planck Institute of Biological Intelligence to deliver a research programme that will identify New Zealand's national flyways and critical stopover sites.
The position will be focussed on:

• Banding, nest monitoring, GPS tagging and satellite tagging several banded dotterel populations nationally.
• Assessing behavioural data of banded dotterels to ground-truth ODBA data.
• Collating and analysing scientific data, producing insights and recommendations to Operations staff.
• Conducting fieldwork for designated research programmes.
• Compiling, analysing, and interpreting scientific data.
• Providing scientific advice to Operations within your area of expertise.
• Preparing scientific papers and reports.
• Carrying out research and monitoring tasks as assigned.
• Building and maintaining relationships with stakeholders.
• Collaborating with teams across the department and contribute to cross-functional projects.
• Working closely with international collaborators.
• Must be willing to travel locally, regionally and nationally.

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

• Relevant post graduate qualification, or equivalent knowledge, and relevant science experience.
• Proven experience in biodiversity science or related areas.
• Strong skills in research design and management.
• Proficiency in statistical methods and modelling for research programmes.
• Excellent planning and organizational skills to manage work and resources.
• Strong communication skills for producing scientific outputs and advice.
• Ability to work collaboratively across teams and build effective relationships.
• Comfort with engaging and working in partnership with iwi and tangata whenua.
• Basic proficiency in te reo and tikanga Māori.
• Strong planning and organisation skills, management of resources over a programme of work to meet timeframes and budget.
• Solid communication skills, able to produce scientific outputs and technical advice to a professional standard.
• Practical experience in the field and backcountry, including orienteering, map reading and GPS skills.
• Full New Zealand Driver's Licence.
• Experience catching, nest monitoring dotterels.
• Experience of leg loop harness attachment methods.
• Experience of banding and handling shorebirds.
• Relevant tertiary qualification (MSc or above).
• Data input and management using Program R, Excel and MS Access databases.
• Experience of taking and handling blood and feather samples.

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.
Due to high volumes, we are not engaging with recruitment agencies for this role.

Rā katinga | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Monday 28 October 2024
Me he pātai anō | For further enquiries, contact Emma Williams +64272548952, emwilliams@doc.govt.nz
Taupānga | Job reference: DOC/1824240