Pest Control Operator
Puketi Forest Trust
Northland
This is an exciting opportunity to work in one of Aotearoa’s most diverse forest ecosystems and make a valuable contribution to forest biodiversity while obtaining skills and a qualification for a career in conservation or pest control. It is a fixed-term role until the end September 2024, carrying out multi-species pest control in Puketi/Omahuta forests.
About the Project:
Puketi Forest Trust is a community conservation group with the mission to restore and protect Puketi Forest in central Northland (puketi.org.nz). In partnership with the Jobs for Nature programme from the Department of Conservation, the Trust is expanding its existing network to control pests (stoats, feral cats, possums, rats, goats and pigs) at landscape scale across Puketi/Omahuta to protect priority taonga species including bats, kiwi, kokako, NI robin, kauri snail, Dactylanthus and Davallia.
The project, now underway, is establishing and training teams of pest control operators, cutting, installing, servicing and maintaining a network of traps and bait stations to cover key areas in Puketi/Omahuta, and potentially, goat and pig control, The project has a dual focus on biodiversity enhancement and skills development in the local community, building capacity in pest control, pest monitoring, species management work and business capability.
About the Role:
We are increasing from two to three teams. You will join a team working from a base near the forest, north of Okaihau. Initial training will be provided and then on the job learning, leading to a Pest Control Operations Level 3 qualification.
Work will include cutting and clearing trap lines and installing traps and bait stations; checking and rebaiting traps and bait stations and pig and goat control; and monitoring pests and protected wildlife. You will need to enjoy working outdoors.
What we are looking for:
Required:
- Keen interest in conservation and outdoor work.
- Willing to learn new skills and develop a career in conservation or pest control.
- Able to work with others and become a good team member.
- Physically fit and drug-free.
Desired:
- Existing skills and experience you can bring to the job will be an advantage but are not essential, such as full driver licence, bush navigation, map skills, pest control experience.
What’s in it for you?
A living wage to start, with possibility of advancement.
A great opportunity to get training and a qualification free of charge and while being paid.
Outdoor work gear supplied.
A supportive and collaborative working environment, you will be working with a great team delivering effective solutions to improve Northland’s biodiversity.
Application:
Please apply by email to Caleb Thorne at caleb.t@puketi.org.nz requesting a Job description and application pack
To apply for this position you must be a NZ citizen/resident or hold a valid NZ work visa.
Applications close at 5pm on Tuesday 24th January 2023
Interviews will take place from Tuesday 31st January 2023