Lead Ranger

Job Description

Ngā Kawenga | Key Responsibilities

The Taitua Lead Ranger will be responsible for:

• Planning and programming maintenance work across the arboretum, determining daily priorities and managing seasonal workload fluctuations
• Managing the annual planting programme by coordinating plant requests received a year in advance, undertaking site preparation, selecting appropriate plant species, and establishing new plantings in accordance with arboretum specifications
• Undertaking routine grounds maintenance tasks including mowing, gardening, weed control, and rubbish bin management
• Conducting basic tree maintenance tasks, including pruning and routine care in accordance with best practice standards
• Managing animal husbandry responsibilities, including monitoring cattle health and welfare, moving cattle, maintaining animal facilities, and ensuring appropriate feeding and care protocols
• Carrying out repairs to trough systems and fencing for cattle to ensure safe and functional animal facilities
• Operating and maintaining machinery and equipment including tractors, mowers, RTVs, and chainsaws in a safe and efficient manner
• Ensuring all plant, equipment, and resources are maintained in a clean, tidy, and operational condition
• Leading and developing team members through clear direction, mentoring, and performance feedback; delegating tasks effectively whilst ensuring accountability and maintaining high standards of work
• Feeding into strategic decisions regarding maintenance priorities, resource allocation, and operational improvements, working collaboratively with senior management to shape maintenance strategy and operational direction
• Engaging with service providers and contractors to support grounds maintenance and facilities management activities
• Maintaining health and safety standards across all maintenance operations

Qualifications

Oo puumanawa me oo wheako | Your skills and experience

• Arborist qualification (Level 4 Arboriculture or equivalent) or demonstrated relevant experience in tree maintenance and arboriculture
• Proven skills and experience in arboriculture, horticulture, grounds maintenance, and engaging service providers, contractors
• Experience in animal husbandry and facilities maintenance
• Full valid NZ Driver's Licence
• Competency in operating machinery including tractors, mowers, RTVs, and chainsaws
• Demonstrated ability to oversee and support team members, with capability to manage seasonal priorities and workload planning
• Positive and collaborative attitude and working style
• Good physical fitness

Additional Information

He aha te wariu o te utu kaimahi? | What’s the salary? 

Circa $31.85 per hour, dependent on skills and experience.

Ngaa waahi whakarato painga kei a maatou: What we offer 

• Flexible by choice; an award-winning flexible working policy.
• Opportunities for professional development.
• Two Wellbeing days per year.
• Free health insurance through Unimed including hospital/surgery grade cover and discounted. membership rates for family members.
• Free annual health checks and flu vaccination.
• Ability to purchase additional annual leave.
• Eye testing/glasses cost reimbursement.
• Discounted purchases from local businesses; gym memberships, cafes, dentists, hairdressers and many more.

Me Tono Inaaianei!: Apply Now! 

• View the Position Description
• Click apply
• ​Complete your application.

If you wish to include a cover letter with your application, please combine this in the same file as your resume and upload as a PDF file. Alternatively, you can use the 'Write a message to the Hiring Team' text box.

Applications close on the: 13 November 2026

Note: We will be shortlisting as we receive applications.

Council is committed to honouring the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi/Treaty of Waitangi through its relationship with Kiingitanga, Waikato Tainui, mana whenua and maataa waka within Hamilton Kirikiriroa.

All candidates will be notified of the outcome on their application via email. Short-listed candidates will be required to complete an interview process, reference checks and a criminal check. This role is Safety Sensitive so a pre-employment medical including drug and alcohol test will be required. View more information about these checks and our commitment to the Privacy act here by clicking here

It is important to us that we support you throughout our selection process (interview and assessments). If you have any access needs during this process, let us know in advance so we can make sure these are met.

As a council, we believe in creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and belongs. We value inclusiveness (Kotahitanga) – we respect and value the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents that everyone brings. 

This role is being sourced directly. If/where Hamilton City Council requires the support of a recruitment agency, we will seek this support from our panel of selected agencies. Hamilton City Council will not be responsible for, and will not pay, any commissions, fees or other payments related to unsolicited contact.