Location: Franz Josef
Manager’s title: Field Team Lead, Predator Free South Westland
Salary range: $70,000 -$80,000
Zero Invasive Predators (ZIP) is on a mission to transform Aotearoa/New Zealand’s wild places by removing pest animals and we are well-positioned to do so, building on our established reputation as predator free ‘doers’. ZIP is also pioneering new ways to measure how removing pests can boost carbon stocks, unlocking nature-based solution to climate change. We are ready to accelerate into the next phase of growth and develop our on the ground, in-house carbon field team.
Te Tūranga/The Position
In this role, you will lead and support a team of field rangers to deliver a high-quality carbon field measurement programme, enabling ZIP to accurately measure the additional carbon being generated as a result of our intensive wild animal control.
You will lead by example, fostering a strong culture of physical and mental health and safety as a foundation for success. You will work closely with scientists, project managers, and the broader ZIP team to establish and maintain a reliable carbon measurement network across ZIP's operational areas.
This role requires a high level of comfort working in remote backcountry environments, including extended trips away in the bush. You’ll need flexibility to travel frequently and operate across different ZIP project sites as needed.
Ngā Mahi me Ngā Kawenga/Tasks & Responsibilities
Establishing vegetation plots and associated measurements across ZIP field sites.
Plan and manage the field logistics to allow ZIP’s vegetation plot teams to undertake their work while driving culture, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.
Sharing your observations and collecting high quality data from the field site.
Working in a small team for up to 9 hours a day during all seasons and terrains carrying a pack of up to 15kg.
Using hand and power tools. Loading equipment to and from vehicles, including helicopters.
At times take part in the predator removal work, this will involve, route finding, bait station filling, trapping or servicing cameras in the field.
Ngā Pūkenga me te Wheako/Skills and Experience
Botanical knowledge of New Zealand’s indigenous flora, particularly in South Westland.
Experience in natural forest plot monitoring or ecological survey methods.
Experience with LUCAS plots, the national forest inventory or comparable national forest inventory would be an advantage.
Physically fit and able to operate in challenging terrain. High-level backcountry navigation skills, including 4WD vehicle operation, and helicopter use.
Proven experience in leading or supporting a field-based team with strong interpersonal and communication skills and a commitment to building positive team dynamics.
Comfortable working in a dynamic, often unpredictable field environment.
Te ahurea o te Tima/The Team Culture
At ZIP, we work in small, close-knit teams and are seeking individuals whose values align with ours to help maintain and promote our strong team culture and shared conservation mission.
People – our team, conservation partners and other stakeholders – are always our number one priority, without exception. We are caring, connected, empowered and innovative.
Mō Mātou/About ZIP
A not-for-profit organisation that celebrated its 10th anniversary this year, ZIP has grown from an ambitious start-up established by the NEXT Foundation and the Department of Conservation to a credible, highly capable independent company of 90 passionate practitioners, scientists, engineers and enablers.
Most of our current mahi is focussed in the rainforests of South Westland, the drylands of Aoraki/Mount Cook, on Rakiura/Stewart Island and assisting in the urban environment of Predator Free Wellington.
Me pehea te tono/How to Apply
Applications close: After 4 weeks or when a suitable candidate is found
Apply: Online or email careers@zip.org.nz
Reference: Lead Ranger - Carbon
Accommodation and food can be supplied as part of your salary package if required.
All applicants must be eligible to work in New Zealand.
Please apply online, or send a cover letter and CV to careers@zip.org.nz, with ‘Lead Ranger – Carbon’ in the subject. We will be accepting applications until midday on Friday 14th November 2025, or until a suitable candidate is found.
For more information, view the Role Description or email your questions to careers@zip.org.nz, providing your name and a contact phone number.