Technical Advisor at Department of Conservation | Te Papa Atawhai

Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

08 Jun, 26

Salary

108700.0

Posted On

10 Mar, 26

Experience

0 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Science, Data Analysis, Analytical Skills, Marine Science, Biological Science, Data Science, Biodiversity Monitoring, Risk Assessment, Resource Management, Technical Writing, Data Interpretation, Critical Thinking, Problem-Solving, Communication, Prioritization, Initiative

Industry

Government Administration

Description

Use your science / data and analytical skills to help protect Aotearoa’s oceans. Grow your career in a supportive, values‑driven organisation. Make a real impact by contributing to nationally significant marine work. 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. He angitūtanga | About the role We’re looking for a motivated early‑career professional to join our Marine Ecosystems team as Technical Advisor. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with a background in marine science, biological science or data science who wants to help protect Aotearoa’s marine environment. This is a mainly desk‑based role where you’ll use your analytical and scientific skills to support nationally significant marine programmes, including the monitoring and reporting for New Zealand’s marine protected areas. You will help make sure DOC’s marine work is informed by high‑quality evidence and clear, consistent information. You will work with colleagues across DOC to monitor biodiversity, assess risk, support resource management processes, and help translate complex data into clear guidance that staff can use in their day‑to‑day mahi. Your work will help us improve how we understand and care for our marine ecosystems. Ngā mahi kei a koe | What you’ll do In this role you will: Support the delivery of marine monitoring programmes, including analysing and reporting on biodiversity data. Contribute to DOC’s work for Revitalising the Gulf and other nationally significant marine initiatives. Help assess the risks and benefits of permit applications, including those processed under fast‑track pathways. Prepare clear, well‑reasoned guidance on marine ecosystems and resource management. Help translate technical and scientific information into plain English for staff and partners. Support the development of tools and resources that help DOC staff in their marine conservation mahi. Your work will make a direct contribution to DOC’s broader biodiversity, ecosystem and resource management objectives. This level of role would suit someone early in their career who is curious, energetic, and passionate about nature. He kōrero mōu | About you You’ll bring a strong interest in marine ecosystems and the role of science in conservation. You will be confident working with data, asking good questions, and applying sound reasoning to explain technical information in a clear and accessible way. We are looking for someone who: Has a degree in marine science, biological science, environmental science, data science or a related field. Communicates clearly and confidently in writing and in person. Thinks critically and can draw logical, evidence‑based conclusions. Works well with others and builds strong working relationships. Can prioritise, stay organised and take initiative. Is committed to continuous learning and supporting conservation outcomes. A postgraduate qualification in marine science is an advantage, but we welcome applications from candidates who are passionate about marine conservation and ready to develop their skills and career with DOC. Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience To be considered for the role you will be able to demonstrate: An understanding of marine ecology, biodiversity or environmental science. Experience working with scientific or monitoring data (through study, projects or early work experience). Strong written and verbal communication skills. The ability to interpret and explain technical information. Effective problem‑solving and good judgement. An interest in resource management and marine policy is helpful though not essential. This is a permanent, fulltime position ideally based at Conservation House, Wellington. We may consider other locations for the right candidate. Click here for the position description. Tono mai | Apply now If you are early in your career, passionate about the marine environment, and ready to use your science or data skills to support meaningful conservation work, we want to hear from you. Join us and help make a positive difference for Aotearoa’s oceans and the species that depend on them. 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 for interview. If you require any accommodations or adjustments throughout the recruitment process, please do let us know. The salary range for this position is $80,054 to $108,700 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. Rā katinga | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Tuesday 24 March 2026. Me he pātai anō | For further enquiries, contact Sarah Meadows at smeadows@doc.govt.nz Please note that we have replaced our previous recruitment system with Workday, you will need to create a new Candidate Home account when applying for new roles. The Department of Conservation is a great place to work for anyone who is passionate about nature and the environment. Our people are responsible for caring for our land, water and native species. Spread throughout the country, they ensure that nature can thrive. They perform a huge range of tasks in roles from technical specialists to support staff and frontline rangers. Read more about Our role: About us

Responsibilities

The role involves supporting marine monitoring programmes by analyzing and reporting on biodiversity data, and contributing to nationally significant marine initiatives like Revitalising the Gulf. Responsibilities also include assessing permit application risks and translating complex technical information into clear guidance for staff and partners.