Whitebait Fishery Engagement Coordinator | Kairuruku Whakawhitiwhiti Inanga (Fixed Term)

• Unique opportunity to work with passionate stakeholders, develop innovative engagement approaches, and make tangible contribution to freshwater conservation outcomes 
• Play a key role in helping DOC achieve its objectives for sustainable fishery management and freshwater conservation 
• Full-time, fixed term role until end of December 2026; flexible location 

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

Mō te tūranga | About the role 

We have a unique opportunity for an experienced and passionate engagement and communications professional to contribute to conservation outcomes.

As Whitebait Fishery Engagement Coordinator, you’ll be part of our Freshwater Species Team where you’ll lead and coordinate engagement, communication and education initiatives that support whitebait fishery management through the whitebait fishing season.

This role sits at the heart of the relationship between DOC and New Zealand’s whitebaiting community, helping ensure the voices of whitebaiters are heard while supporting the sustainable management of whitebait species.  

The position will be focussed on: 

• Delivering the annual whitebait season communications and engagement campaign
• Building relationships with whitebaiters and stakeholders 
• Developing and maintaining ongoing communication channels, including e-newsletters, webinars, web content, intranet pages and stakeholder communications 
• Managing the whitebait inbox and support resources to stakeholder enquiries and official correspondence 
• Scoping and developing educational resources and tools about whitebait regulations and responsible fishing practices 
• Maintaining internal awareness of whitebait fishery management priorities and activities across DOC 
• Contributing to annual planning, reporting and continuous improvement activities 
• Support to operational teams with delivery of compliance activities, and engagement with mana whenua 
• Preparing media messaging and supporting national level communication and engagement  

This is a full-time, fixed term role until end of December 2026 with a flexible location. 

Click here for the Role Description  

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience 

We’re looking for someone who is a skilled communicator and relationship builder who can work effectively with a wide range of people and perspectives. You’ll need to enjoy working autonomously and thrive in a fast-paced environment.  

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

• Proven experience in stakeholder engagement and communications roles 
• Strong collaboration skills and ability to work with different functions within an organisation 
• Solid written communication skills and the ability to synthesise complex information into clear, accessible messages 
• Good judgement and the ability to identify underlying stakeholder concerns, interests and opportunities 
• Ability to build trust and credibility with diverse audiences 
• Experience planning and delivering engagement programmes or communication campaigns 
• A proactive, solutions-focused mindset and a commitment to adding value 

Desirable: 

• A science background would be advantageous 
• Understanding of whitebait fishery 

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. 

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

Salary: $80,695–$101,951, depending on skills and experience. 

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

Rā whakakapi | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Sunday, 9 August 2026 
Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries, please contact Emily Funnell at efunnell@doc.govt.nz