AO5, Senior Ranger

Queensland Government; Cairns Regional; On-site; AUD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Queensland Government's AO5 Senior Ranger role in Cairns leads a large operational team across the Far North Management Unit, delivering conservation, visitor management and on-ground programs across the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area.

The role requires strong People leadership, strategic planning and a hands-on approach to field operations, building partnerships with Traditional Owners and government partners to achieve shared conservation goals.

Qualifications

• Experience leading teams in conservation, parks, or natural resource management.
• Current Manual Driver's Licence is essential.

Responsibilities

• Lead a dedicated team of 20 Rangers delivering conservation and visitor management outcomes across the Far North Management Unit, from Mission Beach to the Torres Strait.
• Play a key role in protecting the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area through the delivery of projects and priorities under the Reef Joint Field Management Program.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with Traditional Owners, communities, industry representatives and government partners to achieve shared conservation outcomes.
• Manage a diverse portfolio of operational responsibilities, including emergency response, marine and island park management, infrastructure projects, compliance activities and remote field operations.

Job description

This exciting Senior Ranger opportunity leads a large operational team across one of Queensland's most unique and diverse landscapes. If you're an experienced leader who enjoys balancing people management, strategic planning and on-ground operations, we'd love to hear from you.

Nature. Experienced. Valued. Protected.

Join Our Team - Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Region.

The role offers the chance to work alongside a passionate team and key partners to deliver conservation outcomes across the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area and Queensland's marine and island national parks.

• Purpose We care for Queensland's with people, wildlife, and the landscapes we protect
• People - We are passionate, proud, and driven to be our best, working together to collaborate, innovate, and keep each other safe
• Success - We create lasting, positive impact—where nature thrives and communities value and connect with the environment.

The Opportunity: AO5, Senior Ranger

Based in Cairns, this leadership role offers the opportunity to oversee ranger operations across the Far North Management Unit, spanning from Mission Beach to the Torres Strait.

Based in Cairns, you will lead a team of 20 Rangers responsible for delivering conservation, visitor management and operational programs across Queensland's national and marine parks within the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area.

Why Join Us

Because here, your work matters. You'll contribute to something bigger—protecting Queensland's natural heritage while building a career filled with variety, adventure and purpose. Be part of a passionate & supportive admin team that values collaboration, diversity and safety—on the water and on land.

What You'll Do

• Lead a dedicated team of 20 Rangers delivering conservation and visitor management outcomes across the Far North Management Unit, from Mission Beach to the Torres Strait.
• Play a key role in protecting the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area through the delivery of projects and priorities under the Reef Joint Field Management Program.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with Traditional Owners, communities, industry representatives and government partners to achieve shared conservation outcomes.
• Manage a diverse portfolio of operational responsibilities, including emergency response, marine and island park management, infrastructure projects, compliance activities and remote field operations.

What We're Looking For

We're seeking a confident and capable leader who is passionate about conservation, thrives in a dynamic operational environment and enjoys working collaboratively to achieve positive outcomes for people, parks and the Reef.

A current Manual Driver's Licence is essential for successful applicants.

Closing Date: Wednesday, 30 September 2026

Occupational group Primary Industry & Environment