Senior Science Advisor/ Kaitohu Pūtaiao

• Lead nationally significant ecological monitoring design and biodiversity science that directly informs conservation decisions

• Work with complex, real‑world datasets and monitoring systems across Aotearoa’s most important ecosystems and species

• Permanent, Wellington-based role with flexible working options

Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa.

He angitūtanga | About the role

This role sits within the Biodiversity, Heritage and Visitors Group, where science underpins some of DOC’s most complex and high‑impact conservation decisions.

As a Senior Science Advisor, you will provide leadership in the design, delivery, and application of ecological monitoring frameworks, systems, and quantitative approaches to improve biodiversity outcomes at a national scale. You will work at the interface of science, conservation management, and policy, translating monitoring data and evidence into advice that directly influences how conservation is delivered across Aotearoa.

This is a role for an experienced practitioner in ecological monitoring design who wants their work to matter—supporting decisions about threatened species, ecosystems, conservation investment, and system performance.

The position will be focussed on:

• Leading the design and continuous improvement of ecological monitoring frameworks and programmes to support biodiversity outcomes

• Developing robust, fit-for-purpose monitoring designs, including sampling approaches, indicators, and evaluation frameworks

• Designing and delivering complex monitoring and evaluation projects, drawing on quantitative analysis and applied ecological science

• Translating monitoring evidence into clear, decision‑ready advice for senior leaders, Ministers, iwi, and partners

• Providing national‑level science advice on monitoring system design, data interpretation, and performance assessment

• Working as an honourable Treaty partner to promote Māori engagement and involvement with our work

• Supporting the integration of Mātauranga Māori into monitoring design and implementation where appropriate

• Influencing and contributing to monitoring and research led by other agencies and science providers

• Coaching and supporting capability development within DOC in ecological monitoring design and practice

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience

You will bring strong scientific credibility, sound judgement, and the ability to lead through influence in complex environments.

If you have some of the following, we are keen to hear from you:

• A graduate or post‑graduate qualification in biological sciences (or equivalent experience)

• Significant experience designing and delivering conservation or biodiversity research

• Recognised expertise within your scientific field in Aotearoa

• Strong analytical skills, including statistics, modelling, monitoring, and evaluation

• Proven ability to synthesise complex evidence into clear, decision‑ready advice

• Experience leading complex projects and working across multiple organisations

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including producing briefings and formal advice

• Understanding of, or willingness to learn, Māori tikanga and Te Tiriti o Waitangi and how it applies to conservation science

Desirable:

• Experience working at the science–policy or science–operations interface
  Experience contributing to national‑level conservation or biodiversity initiatives

Click here for the position description.

He aha ngā pāinga mōu? | What’s in it for you?

DOC is committed to a culture where everyone can participate, thrive, and grow. We’re driven by our values and behaviours and are working towards being an organisation that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive by default.

We also support flexible working arrangements for our kaimahi across Aotearoa, with options considered based on the role and in discussion with your leader.

Staff benefits: Working at DOC

Tonoa inaiānei | Apply now

Apply online with your CV and cover letter outlining your relevant experience and motivation. We’re unable to accept emailed applications or provide feedback to applicants not shortlisted for interview.

If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, let us know and we’ll try to accommodate.

Salary: $92,912- $124,500 depending on skills and experience.

Eligibility: You must hold a valid NZ work visa that covers the duration of employment.

Rā whakakapi | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Tuesday 30 June 2026.

Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries, please contact Luisa Kilman at [email protected]