Research Assistant (Fixed Term) at Department of Conservation | Te Papa Atawhai

Invercargill City, Southland, New Zealand -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

13 Oct, 26

Salary

67446.0

Posted On

15 Jul, 26

Experience

0 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Back Country Experience, Off-track Navigation, Bird Monitoring, Data Collection, Data Collation, Physical Fitness, Interpersonal Skills, Bird Handling, Banding

Industry

Government Administration

Description

Hands-on conservation role on Rakiura Stewart Island Carry out research on the Critically Endangered Pukunui/Southern New Zealand Dotterel Full-time, short-term role from 21 September 2026 – 15 January 2027 Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa Mō te tūranga | About the role We have an exciting opportunity for a Research Assistant to join us and contribute to crucial conservation mahi. In this unique and largely field-based position, you’ll be carrying out research on the Critically Endangered Pukunui/Southern New Zealand Dotterel on Rakiura Stewart Island during the upcoming breeding season. The position will be focussed on: Conducting extensive field surveys Monitoring birds and nests Setting up nest cameras Collecting, managing and entering data Click here for the role description Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience If you have most of following, we are keen to hear from you: Strong back country experience with off-track navigation skills Experience working independently in remote, exposed locations Bird monitoring experience Data collection and collation skills Good physical fitness and able to carry a heavy pack Easy going with good interpersonal skills Desirable: Relevant training or qualification Bird handling and banding This is a full-time, fixed term role which starts on 21 September 2026 and ends on 15 January 2027. Please note: The role is based on Rakiura Stewart Island while on duty. When in- field, you’ll be based out of small huts and campsites in exposed, sub-alpine locations. You’ll work on a 10-days on and 4-days off roster. During your time off, you're welcome to be based anywhere; however, any travel to and from your chosen off-duty location is at your own expense. DOC will provide ferry travel between Invercargill and Rakiura Stewart Island for rostered shifts. 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 non-shortlisted applicants. If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, let us know and we’ll try to accommodate. Salary: $61,189-$67,446 depending on skills and experience. Eligibility: You must hold a valid New Zealand work visa that covers the duration of employment. Rā whakakapi | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Tuesday, 28 July 2026 Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries, please contact Kerry Weston, at kweston@doc.govt.nz 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. Ko tā Te Papa Atawhai he tiaki, he whakarauora anō hoki i te taiao puta noa i Aotearoa. He oranga taiao, he oranga tangata. Our people bring this vision to life. Spread across Aotearoa, they care for our land, water, and native species. From frontline rangers and technical experts to vital support teams - we have a diverse range of roles. Read more about DOC

Responsibilities

Conduct extensive field surveys and monitor birds and nests for the Critically Endangered Southern New Zealand Dotterel. Responsibilities include setting up nest cameras and managing research data.