Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Turoa
The Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai (DOC) serves to protect and restore nature across Aotearoa. When nature thrives, we all thrive.
Ko ta Te Papa Atawhai he tiaki, he whakarauora ano hoki i te taiao puta noa i Aotearoa. He oranga taiao, he oranga tangata.
Mo te turanga | About the role
We have two positions available for Senior Science Advisors to join Te Papa Atawhai (DOC).The purpose of these roles are to lead the provision and development of biodiversity science advice, expertise, and deliver strategic research to enable improved understanding and conservation management of biodiversity. You will lead moderate to high complexity projects, some of which are outlined below:
Position 1: Predator and Ungulate Ecologist.
- Research into the efficacy of predator kills achieved by DOC's National Predator Control Programme (NPCP). This position will be the primary research lead.
- Environmental DNA. This position will lead an ongoing investigation into the utility of EDNA for feral cats and other predator detection.
- Operational research into Wild Animal Management (Ungulates). This position will contribute to establishing new research projects.
- Advisory Groups: This position will support such groups depending on specialty skills.
Position 2: Pest Ecologist - Remote Sensing.
- Remote sensing. This position will utilise remote sensing skills to deliver research into improved spatial distribution of aerially applied baits.
- LiDAR and multi-spectral data. This position will engage and collaborate with external researchers to utilise Lidar and Multi-spectra data to describe vegetation change.
- Advisory Groups: This position will support such groups depending on specialty skills.
Nga pukenga me nga wheako | Skills and experience
For both positions we are seeking candidates with the following:
- Post-graduate qualification in biological sciences.
- Experience in NZ pest Ecology and management, ideally specialising in two or more areas such as; possums, rodents, mustelids, cats, ungulates, wallabies, wasps, ants.
- Achievement in designing, leading and reporting on scientific research.
- Strong analytical skills, including the application of statistical methods, modelling, GIS, and evaluation in the design of research programmes.
- Able to lead the application or development of common frameworks, principles, methodologies, tools, and techniques.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Physically fit and capable of field work.
- A current full New Zealand Driver Licence.
For both positions it is considered an advantage if you have:
- A relevant Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or Master of Science (MSc).
- Experience or interest in working with whanau, hapu and iwi, with an understanding of Te Ao Maori.
- Experience with eDNA (or transferable skills)
- Drone skills.
- AI skills.
- Toxin expertise.
- Wildlife tracking
- LiDAR, large data handling skills.
- Tool development.
He aha nga painga mou? | 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.
Tonoa inaianei | Apply now
Apply online with a CV and cover letter that highlights your relevant skills, experience and motivation for joining Te Papa Atawhai. Please outline your interest in either position 1 or position 2, based on your skills alignment. If you require any accommodations or adjustments throughout the recruitment process, please do let us know.
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.
The salary range for these positions is $92,450 to $116,985 per annum, with the starting salary of the successful applicant 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.
Ra whakakapi | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Sunday 3 August 2025.
Me he patai ano, whakapa mai | For further enquiries, contact Clayson Howell, Landscape Threats Science Manager, [email protected].
Te tohutoro turanga | Job reference: DOC/1866934.
