Zero Invasive Predators (ZIP) is seeking a Field Ranger to join our tīma (team) in a full-time capacity.  

The role is based in Oban, with opportunities to travel and work in beautiful and remote places of the South Island.


About ZIP

At ZIP, our mission is to protect native taonga and restore te taiao (nature) by removing invasive predators across mainland Aotearoa.

Zero Invasive Predators Ltd (ZIP) is a not-for-profit organisation established in 2015 by the NEXT Foundation and the Department of Conservation. We’re working to adapt and refine predator elimination approaches to completely remove predators within the context of three landscape scale projects; Predator Free South Westland project, Te Manahuna Aoraki Project and Predator Free Rakiura. Outside of these field sites, we also have a Predator Behaviour Facility based at Lincoln University in Christchurch, and an office in Wellington.


The role

You will be part of a team based in Oban, tasked with preparing for operational delivery of predator elimination in this landscape.

Duties will include but are not limited to:

  • Finding and clearing routes, this may involve working and navigating off track.

  • Manual labour involving installing monitoring cameras, setting traps and loading equipment to and from vehicles, including helicopters and using hand and power tools.

  • Sharing your observations and collecting high quality data from the field site.

  • Crossing rough terrain on foot, carrying a pack of up to 15 kg. You will likely be working alone for up to 8 hours a day, during all seasons, with exposure to wind, rain, sun and snow.

Additional tasks may include evaluating engineering prototypes, modifying predator traps, maintaining field infrastructure, travelling between sites and engaging with the local community.


CONTRACT: Permanent, full-time

LOCATION: Oban, Stewart Island

What we need

  • Willing and able to spend long hours working alone in rough terrain and challenging conditions.

  • Comfortable sharing accommodation with a small team if required, and willing to contribute to cooking and cleaning duties.

  • Experience and confidence in engaging with people and groups of various backgrounds.

  • Good time management and initiative.

A full job description is available upon request.

All applicants must be eligible to work in New Zealand.

Applications Close: 11th April 2025

Salary range: $48,880 - $68,000, based on experience

Please apply online, or send a cover letter and CV to careers@zip.org.nz, quoting “Field ranger - Oban” in the subject header. We will be accepting applications until midday on 11th April 2025 or until a suitable candidate is found.

For more information, please email your questions to careers@zip.org.nz, providing your name and a contact phone number so we can be in touch.