Principal Investigations Officer (Fixed Term)at Department of Conservation92,450.00 - 116,985.00
- $116,985.00 pro-rataFixed term / secondment: 6 months, Wellington location
- open to consider other locations Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao TūroaThe Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai (DOC) serves to protect and restore nature across Aotearoa.
When nature thrives, we all thrive.
He angitūtanga | About the roleAre you an experienced investigator ready to lead high-level compliance operations that make a tangible impact on Aotearoa's natural and cultural heritage?Join DOC and play a pivotal role at the forefront of environmental protection and law enforcement.As Principal Investigations Officer, you will lead complex, high-profile investigations into suspected breaches of conservation legislation.
You'll spearhead compliance—coordinating operational teams, executing search warrants, and ensuring every investigation upholds legal and evidential standards.
From planning through to debriefing, your work will ensure accountability, transparency, and protection of our natural taonga.The position will be focussed on:Providing investigative support and mentoring for warranted officers in the Northern South Island and Western South Island DOC RegionsLeading high-level investigations into breaches of DOC-administered legislationManaging and guiding operational teams in field compliance activitiesDeveloping and implementing investigation plans aligned with national and local prioritiesDriving the development of compliance plans, standards, procedures, and trainingExecuting and overseeing compliance reporting and debriefing processesRepresenting DOC across agencies and sectors, building strong partnershipsMentoring and supporting warranted officers and compliance staff and supervising contractors, volunteers, and staff in the field Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experienceThe role requires demonstrated experience working in a compliance role, and ideally with a current investigative background with sound knowledge of relevant investigative techniques, and experience of preparing prosecution files.
A key skill for the role is the ability to communicate broadly, with a sound understanding of enforcement objectives, processes and procedures.A current practitioner with search and surveillance legislation, criminal procedure, evidence and disclosure knowledge, you will be able to rapidly absorb and process information.The ideal candidate will have skills in leading, mentoring and coaching small teams, and an interest in conservation.
This is an operational position requiring the ability to work outdoors with the possibility of travel to all parts of New Zealand.If you have some of following, we are keen to hear from you:Extensive experience in compliance or law enforcementProven ability to lead investigations and manage operational teamsSound knowledge of regulatory systems, procedures, and legal frameworksSkilled communicator, confident in difficult conversations and holding others to accountProven leadership, mentoring, and staff training experienceAble to obtain NZ Security Intelligence Service (SIS) clearanceHigh levels of professionalism and discretionDesirable:Qualifications or training in regulatory compliance is an advantage Mō te tīma | About the teamThe Policy and Regulatory Services Group provides strategic direction and thought leadership for DOC and for the conservation system.
Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | 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.We support flexible work arrangements for our kamahi who are working in a wide variety of roles and locations across Aotearoa.
Flexible options will be considered based on your role and in discussion with your leader.
Tono ināianei | Apply nowIf you require any accommodations or adjustments throughout the recruitment process, please do let us know.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.The salary range for this position is $92,450.00- $116,985.00 pro-rata with the starting salary of the successful applicant being based on their relevant skills and experience.
Rā katinga | Applications close at 11:59 pm on 14 July 2025Me he pātai anō | For further enquiries, contact Graeme Scott, grscott@doc.govt.nz Taupānga | Job reference: DOC/1864874