Programme Lead (Fixed Term)

Benefits & Role Overview

• Be part of a great organisation protecting and restoring nature
• Salary range : $92,912 - $117,570
• Full time, 2‑year fixed‑term role based in Aoraki / Mt Cook or Twizel ideally, or flexible for the right candidate

Your opportunity to lead meaningful work that makes a real difference — for our environment, our communities, and future generations.

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.

Mō te tūranga | About the role

Aoraki / Mount Cook is an iconic site that brings in big visitor numbers every year. There are currently large programmes of work underway to revitalise the visitor experience including a sustainable destinations plan, paid parking trials and multiple asset upgrades.

The position will be focussed on :

This is a full time, 2‑year fixed‑term role based ideally in Aoraki / Mt Cook, or in the Mackenzie Basin, but a flexible location can be considered for the right candidate.

Click here for the Role Description

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience

We seek an individual with a growth mindset who can effectively navigate the ambiguity and risks associated with projects. You should be adaptable, focused, and credible, and able to instil confidence in stakeholders. You will be a good listener and a problem solver, possessing excellent communication and negotiation skills with a commitment to achieving the best outcomes.

Below are some of the skills and experience that will set you up for success :

Our Values

At The Department of Conservation, everyone’s journey is unique. Every purpose, personal. That’s why we believe your career should be more than a role, it should be a path that reflects who you are, what you value, and the difference you want to make.

Here, you’ll find more than a workplace. You’ll find a team united and guided by values that matter :

This is a place where nature thrives because people do.

He aha ngā pāinga mōu? | 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.

Tonoa inaiānei | 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.

If you require any accommodations or adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.

The salary range for this position is $92,912 - $117,570 with the starting salary of the successful applicant being 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.

Due to high volumes, we are not engaging with recruitment agencies for this role.

Rā whakakapi | Applications close

at 11 : 59 pm on Sunday, 23 November 2025

Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries

please contact Anna Basova, Recruitment Advisor, at

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