Programme Lead (Fixed Term)

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 :

• Leading the local planning, coordination, and delivery of large-scale visitor experience and infrastructure projects across Aoraki / Mount Cook and the Mackenzie Basin
• Collaborating with operational and national teams, iwi / hapū, community groups, and stakeholders to ensure programme success
• Identify and raise project risks, dependencies, and issues, proactively addressing challenges to help keep projects on track
• Driving continuous improvement and innovation in how we deliver conservation outcomes
• Be part of the District Leadership Team and contribute to decisions around resources and priorities
• Leading by example by building strong relationships and consistently acting with integrity in everything you do
• Provide assurance and key updates to the local Operations Manager
• Provide support and coordination at site

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.

NGĀ PUKENGA ME NGŌ 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 :

• Proven experience leading or coordinating programmes or projects, ideally in conservation, operations, environmental management, or public sector delivery.
• A sound understanding of project management practices and principles
• Strong relationship management skills — you’re confident engaging with diverse stakeholders, including mana whenua and bringing them on the journey
• Excellent organisational and problem‑solving abilities — you thrive in dynamic environments.
• Ability to review and prepare written reports, and to communicate effectively verbally and in writing
• Both a strategic and delivery mindset with the ability to translate vision into action.
• A passion for conservation and a commitment to DOC’s kaupapa.

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 :

• Integrity, because trust and honesty are non‑negotiable
• Empowerment, because when we lift each other, we all rise higher
• Connection, because collaboration sparks progress
• Achievement, because results mean more when they create real impact

This is a place where nature thrives because people do.

HE AHA NGŌ 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

Applications close at 11 : 59 pm on Sunday, 23 November 2025

ME HE PĀTAI ANŌ, WHAKPA MAI | For further enquiries

For further enquiries, please contact Anna Basova, Recruitment Advisor, at

#J-18808-Ljbffr