Job Description

• Play a pivotal role in shaping Aotearoa’s fast-track consenting and conservation outcomes
• $93,656- $126,500+ benefits including flexible working and professional development
• Wellington-based role (or flexible location by agreement), working on nationally significant projects

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

He angitūtanga | About the role

This senior advisory role sits within DOC’s Biodiversity, Heritage and Visitors Group and contributes to the evolving conservation regulatory system. As part of the Fast-track team, you will play a key role in delivering expert, timely advice on Fast-track applications of national significance.

In this role you will lead complex applications through Fast-track statutory processes, ensuring high-quality, well-coordinated advice that reflects conservation priorities and the interests.

This is a fast-paced and complex role that works across conservation outcomes, regulatory advice and accelerated approvals. You will engage closely with central and local government, iwi, applicants, expert panels, and senior decision‑makers.

This is an opportunity to influence regionally and nationally significant projects, shape regulatory practice and help ensure conservation considerations are integrated into major infrastructure and development decisions.

The position will be focused on:

• Leading and project managing complex Fast-track applications from start to finish
• Coordinating input across DOC to deliver clear, consolidated advice to decision-makers
• Preparing and delivering high-quality submissions to expert panels
• Providing guidance and support to regional teams on Fast Track Act matters
• Identifying risks and issues early and managing them effectively
• Interpreting legislation and policy to provide robust, evidence-based advice
• Translating complex information into clear recommendations for a range of audiences
• Building strong relationships with stakeholders and representing DOC externally
• Supporting and mentoring others through peer review and knowledge sharing

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience

We are looking for an experienced senior advisor who can lead complex work programmes, influence outcomes, and communicate with credibility and clarity.

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

• A strong understanding of resource management, conservation consenting and regulatory processes
• Knowledge of Fast-track legislation and statutory decision-making frameworks
• Proven experience leading complex projects and managing competing priorities
• Excellent analytical thinking and ability to translate complex evidence into clear advice
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Experience in preparing submissions and presenting evidence
• Confidence engaging with senior stakeholders and contributing to decision-making
• Ability to build trusted relationships across organisations and sectors
• Sound judgement in identifying risks and developing practical solutions
• Understanding or willingness to learn Māori tikanga and understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and how it relates to your work

Desirable:

• Experience working with large-scale infrastructure or nationally significant applications
• Familiarity with hearings processes and presenting technical or expert evidence

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.

Want to know more?

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: $93,656- $126,500, depending on skills and experience.

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

Please note, we are not engaging with recruitment agencies for this role. 

Rā whakakapi | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Sunday, 20 September 2026. This advert may close early, so please apply promptly

Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries, please contact Anna Basova, Recruitment Advisor, at abasova@doc.govt.nz