AO5, Senior Ranger

Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation QLD; Cairns Regional; On-site; AUD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation QLD – Cairns QLD seeks a proven leader to oversee ranger operations across the Far North Management Unit, from Mission Beach to the Torres Strait. You will lead a team of 20 Rangers delivering conservation and visitor management programs within Queensland's national and marine parks in the GBR World Heritage Area.

The role calls for a confident leader who thrives in a dynamic operational setting and collaborates with Traditional Owners

Qualifications

• Experience leading ranger teams in a field operations context.
• Strong planning and coordination across multiple sites and teams.
• Ability to build partnerships with Traditional Owners and partners.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of 20 Rangers delivering conservation and visitor management outcomes across the Far North Management Unit.
• Deliver projects and priorities under Reef Joint Field Management Program.
• Build relationships with communities, industry representatives and government partners to achieve conservation outcomes.
• Manage emergency response, marine and island park management, infrastructure projects and remote field operations.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Stakeholder engagement

Conservation

Operational planning

Job description

Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation QLD – Cairns QLD

Purpose

We care for Queensland'swith 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.

Before You Apply

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

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:

This is a rewarding opportunity for an experienced leader seeking to make a meaningful contribution to the sustainable management of Queensland's protected areas while managing a capable and committed team.

• 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.

If you're an adaptable leader who enjoys a mix of strategic planning, operational management and hands-on fieldwork, we'd love to hear from you.

Applications to remain current for 12 months.