New Zealand is looking for a Biodiversity Officer for a remote area
West Coast
New Zealand seeks biodiversity officer on remote coast
This prospect calls applicants for the position of Biodiversity Officer on the West Coast of New Zealand
© VisualEyze / Image Alliance
A search is underway for a biodiversity officer on New Zealand’s west coast. However, it’s been a while since applications have been submitted yet – for many, perhaps the workplace is too lonely, despite the picturesque nature.
The New Zealand Department of Conservation is trying hard to fill a position. At first glance, the working conditions could be worse: taking care of the local animals surrounded by beautiful nature, with an annual salary of NZ$92,000. So far, though, only three people have applied for the Biodiversity Officer position.
The site of the work will be Te Wāhipounamu, a remote mountainous area on the west coast of New Zealand’s South Island that is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The job involves caring for local populations of animals such as kiwis, penguins, and fur seals.
An isolated work site on the west coast of New Zealand
According to the advertisement, true “outdoor enthusiasts” are suited to this – however, they should have no problem working in a remote area where some places can only be reached by helicopter or boat. Wayne Costello of Conservation acknowledges that applicants need to open up to a certain level of isolation. For example, the nearest supermarket is a two-hour drive away.
Staff are urgently needed in many areas on New Zealand’s west coast. According to the British newspaper “The Guardian”, nearly 30 percent of job advertisements in the region were registered on the “SEEK” job portal. The Regional Development Agency is currently running its own campaign on the West Coast to attract workers to the region.
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The application deadline for the position of Biodiversity Officer will now be extended by three weeks until a suitable person is found.
Sources: “Guardians“,”Global Times“
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