Ranger (Fixed-Term)

• Are you someone who loves the outdoors, has lots of practical skills and enjoys working with people? Is yes then this is the job for you. 
• As an amenity ranger you will be joining our visitor and heritage team in Nelson Lakes National Park based at St Arnaud. 
• Your role involves ensuring an excellent experience for visitors to amenity areas throughout the district. 
• $62,192–$67,446 depending on skills and experience. 
• Full-time fixed-term position November – April 2027 based St Arnaud, Nelson Lakes with accommodation options available  
   

Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa 

Mō te tūranga | About the role 

The position will be focussed on: 

• Ensure visitor amenities and facilities, including toilets, cooking shelters, and other public-use areas, are cleaned daily and maintained to a high standard. 
• Carry out the ongoing care and maintenance of amenity areas, including lawn mowing, weed control, and general upkeep to ensure sites remain safe, tidy, and welcoming. 
• Build and maintain positive working relationships with colleagues, contractors, stakeholders, and visitors through strong interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence. 
• Communicate confidently with members of the public, providing information and support to enhance their visitor experience. 
• Monitor compliance within amenity areas and campgrounds, including collecting campsite fees and promoting responsible use of facilities. 
• Contribute to a safe, enjoyable, and positive visitor experience by maintaining high standards of customer service and site presentation. 

Click here for Role Description 

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience 

We are looking for a responsible and reliable team player, with an attention to detail and pride in their work. Additionally, someone who is a self-starter, can work independently and with others who carries a high standard of work. If you have the following attributes, we are keen to hear from you: 

• Full NZ Drivers Licence 

• Practical experience in facilities, asset, or general maintenance, with strong DIY and problem-solving abilities.  

• Knowledge of, or experience undertaking, field-based operational work in outdoor environments.  

• Experience operating and maintaining equipment such as mowers, trailers, scrub bars, 4WD vehicles, and other small plant machinery, supported by relevant qualifications where applicable.  

• A strong commitment to health, safety, and wellbeing, with the ability to identify and manage risks in the workplace.  

• Good physical fitness and the ability to work in remote or backcountry environments across varied terrain and weather conditions.  

• Self-motivated with a positive, proactive approach, demonstrating initiative and the ability to find practical solutions to challenges.  

• An interest in conservation, with a good understanding of New Zealand’s natural environment and a passion for sharing knowledge with visitors.  

• Strong communication and relationship-building skills, with the confidence to engage effectively with colleagues, stakeholders, and members of the public. 

• Tech savvy skills with the ability to use computer databases and mobile applications 

Desirable: 
 

• Growsafe certified 

• a current First Aid certificate 

• carpentry, construction or building skills and experience 

Even if you don’t tick all the boxes but believe your skills and experience closely align, then we still encourage you to submit an application. 

He aha ngā pāinga mōu? | What’s in it for you? 

DOC is committed to a culture where everyone can participate, thrive, and grow. We’re driven by our values and behaviours, and are working towards being an organisation that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive by default. Want to know more? 

Tonoa inaiānei | Apply now 

Apply online with your CV and cover letter outlining your relevant experience and motivation. We’re unable to accept emailed applications or provide feedback to applicants not shortlisted. 

If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, let us know and we’ll try to accommodate. 

Salary: $62,192–$67,446 depending on skills and experience. 

Eligibility: You must hold a valid NZ work visa that covers the duration of employment.  

Rā whakakapi | Applications close at 11:59 pm on 13 October 2027

Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries, please contact Philippa Cox, Principal Ranger, [email protected]