Fixed-Term | End of September to End of June 2026 | Palmerston North
Are you passionate about Aotearoa's natural environment and take pride in hands-on work that
makes a difference?
Are you someone who works hard and feels you are at your best when working outdoors, no matter
the weather?
Kaitiaki o te Ngahere (www.kaitiakirestoration.co.nz) specialises in pest plant management and
ecological restoration. We are seeking a team member to assist our field operations in delivering
high-quality, safe, and effective restoration work across the Manawatū-Whanganui region.
Key Responsibilities
- Carry out pest plant control operations including chemical application, cut-and-paste treatment, and mechanical removal, in accordance with job briefs, GrowSafe requirements, and company SOPs
- Set, check, reset, and record pest animal trap lines across a range of trap types, maintaining programme standards throughout
- Support revegetation activities including planting, plant release, and establishment-phase weed control
- Record field data accurately, covering treatment areas, trap results, species observations, and any incidents or hazards
- Follow all health and safety requirements, including correct PPE use, safe chemical handling, and hazard identification
- Participate in pre-work briefings, toolbox talks, and hazard assessments before each job
- Care for and maintain tools, equipment, and vehicles, including fault reporting
Our Ideal Candidate
- Is passionate about conservation and takes pride in contributing to meaningful restoration work
- Enjoys physical, outdoor work and has the fitness and determination to handle challenging conditions
- Is a reliable, self-motivated team player who brings positive energy and focus to the field daily
- Prioritises professionalism and effective communication to ensure safe, dedicated job performance
- Is flexible and willing to travel for week-long away trips when needed
- Holds or is working towards qualifications in conservation, ecology, environmental science, horticulture, or a related field. Consideration would also be given to other skilled backgrounds.
- Has obtained or is willing to obtain relevant industry certifications (e.g. GrowSafe, First Aid, 4WD)
- Holds a full NZ driver's licence (required), with manual transmission competency strongly preferred
- Is committed to the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and to caring for the land in a way that reflects those values
Why Join Us?
Join Kaitiaki o te Ngahere for a fixed-term position from late September to the end of June 2026,
with the possibility of extension. This role offers compensation in accordance with the New Zealand
Living Wage.
You will gain invaluable field experience across pest plant control, pest trapping, and revegetation,
contributing to meaningful restoration projects and helping nurture Aotearoa's natural environment.
We celebrate initiative, integrity, and accountability. If you resonate with this, we encourage you to
apply now!
How to Apply
To receive the job description and application form, email recruitment@kaitiakirestoration.co.nz.
For questions, contact Jessica Aguilar at 027 282 5590.
Applications close at 3 PM on Tuesday, 22 September 2026. We will begin shortlisting as
applications come in and may close the advertisement early, so apply soon.