Technical Advisor

Play a key role in biodiversity initiatives that support New Zealand's marine species programmes, in particular seabirds and shorebirds.

Bring your passion for marine conservation to a role that makes a difference.

Salary ranges from $79,656 to $100,639 depending on skills and experience.

Permanent, full-time position | based in Hamilton or Wellington (may consider other locations for the right candidate)

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.

He angitūtanga | About the role

Are you passionate about marine conservation and equipped with technical expertise in marine and coastal species? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you!

We are seeking a motivated and dynamic Technical Advisor to support our Marine Species Team. Reporting directly to the Marine Species Manager, you will lead and support our seabird and shorebird conservation efforts. This role will involve providing expert technical guidance, specialist advice, overseeing research and developing conservation strategies to mitigate threats and enhance bird populations across coastal and marine environments.

The position will:

• Provide specialist advice to DOC Operations and Permissions staff on seabird and shorebird conservation, including habitat management, population monitoring and threat mitigation.
• Develop and implement research projects to assess seabird and shorebird populations, distribution and key ecological requirements.
• Collaborate with external stakeholders, including government agencies, iwi, NGOs and community groups to advocate for policies and practices that protect coastal and marine bird species.
• Develop and implement conservation projects, monitoring programmes and impact assessments.
• Contribute to reports, scientific publications and funding proposals.
• Stay updated on emerging marine conservation trends, threats and technologies through use of collaborative networks and scientific literature.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience

The ideal candidate will have current knowledge of seabird and shorebird conservation issues. Experience in population modelling and/or spatial mapping would be advantageous. You will be a proactive problem-solver who can work both independently and collaboratively within a small team of marine specialists. A passion for conservation and maintaining high scientific standards is essential for this role. Also essential is excellent written and verbal communication skills, with demonstrated experience in producing reports and delivering presentations.

If you have some of the following, we are keen to hear from you:

• An MSc or PhD in environmental or marine science, preferably with proven skills in population modelling, statistics and spatial mapping, or equivalent knowledge from past work experience.
• Broad knowledge of New Zealand's environmental and conservation issues as they relate to seabirds and shorebirds.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret ecological data for conservation decision-making.
• Proven ability to develop and deliver conservation projects in collaboration with stakeholders.
• Evidence of field skills and willingness to work in remote locations with small teams.
• Experience working across different business groups within an organisation and with external stakeholders, including whānau, hapū, and iwi.
• A passion for Te Papa Atawhai's Kaupapa is essential as well as understanding of Māori Tikanga and Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
• Current full drivers 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 accommodations or adjustments throughout the recruitment process, please do let us know.

The salary range for this position is $79,656 - $100,639 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 7 March 2025 but we may close the advert earlier so please get your applications in soon.
Me he pātai anō | For further enquiries, contact Hayley Barlow, Senior Recruitment Advisor at hbarlow@doc.govt.nz
Taupānga | Job reference: DOC/1844875