We’re Hiring: Conservation Field Worker Biodiversity

Help protect and restore native biodiversity at Living Springs.

Living Springs is seeking an enthusiastic and practical Conservation Field Worker – Biodiversity to join our team on a 40-week fixed-term contract.

Set in the spectacular landscape of Whakaraupō / Lyttelton Harbour, Living Springs manages more than 400 hectares of native forest, wetlands and farmland.

Our conservation programme works across the entire Allandale catchment, protecting biodiversity through predator control, ecological restoration, native planting and community partnerships.

This is a varied, hands-on role where no two days are the same. One day you could be tackling invasive weeds on a remote hillside, the next coordinating a community planting day, maintaining tracks, or working alongside volunteers to restore native habitats.

If you’re looking for a role where your work has a lasting impact on both nature and the community, we’d love to hear from you.

At a Glance

Location: Living Springs, Whakaraupō / Lyttelton Harbour, Christchurch

Hours: 24 hours per week

Contract: Fixed-term – 40 weeks

Pay: $30 per hour

Reports to: Conservation Manager / Team Leader

What You’ll Be Doing

As part of our biodiversity team, you’ll contribute to a wide range of conservation projects, including:

• Managing invasive weeds and supporting ecological restoration.
• Planting and maintaining native vegetation.
• Coordinating and supporting volunteer planting and weed control days.
• Working with our native plant nursery.
• Monitoring restoration sites and biodiversity outcomes.
• Maintaining walking tracks and conservation infrastructure.
• Using GIS technology to record field work.
• Maintaining vehicles, tools and equipment.
• Helping ensure safe work practices across all conservation activities.

About You

We’re looking for someone who:

• Has experience in conservation, weed management, restoration or a related field.
• Has a genuine passion for protecting and restoring New Zealand’s natural environment.
• Enjoys working outdoors in rugged terrain and all weather conditions.
• Is reliable, organised and self-motivated.
• Works well independently and as part of a team.
• Enjoys working with volunteers and the wider community.
• Holds a valid New Zealand work visa, residency or citizenship.

The following would be an advantage:

• Full New Zealand driver’s licence
• Growsafe certification
• Previous conservation field experience.
• Chainsaw experience.
• LUV or Side-by-Side vehicle experience.
• First Aid Certificate.

Why Work at Living Springs?

At Living Springs, you’ll have the opportunity to make a real difference through hands-on conservation. From restoring native habitats and controlling invasive weeds to working alongside volunteers and community partners, you’ll see the impact of your work every day.

Set within more than 400 hectares of spectacular landscape in Whakaraupō / Lyttelton Harbour, Living Springs is committed to protecting and restoring biodiversity across the Allandale catchment. As part of our conservation team, you’ll contribute to meaningful restoration projects while helping shape our long-term vision of creating a thriving eco-sanctuary.

How to Apply

If you’re ready to make a lasting contribution to biodiversity restoration in Whakaraupō / Lyttelton Harbour, we’d love to hear from you.

Please send your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role to:

heba@livingsprings.co.nz

Applications close: Monday, 24 August 2026

📄 Download Position Description (PDF)