Field Ecologist | National

environmentjobs.com; Sydney; Remote; AUD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Australian Wildlife Conservancy (AWC) is seeking a Field Ecologist to join the National Science Team. Based from the successful candidate's home office in Australia, the role focuses on assessing conservation value of properties for acquisition or partnership and evaluating climate-related vulnerabilities using AWC’s framework.

The position involves contributing to the broader National Science program, developing strategies for research, conservation land management and Ecohealth monitoring,

Qualifications

• A higher degree (Honours or equivalent) in ecology/conservation biology or a related field.
• Experience in conservation or related field is highly regarded.
• For Senior Field Ecologist, at least 5 years' professional work experience post-graduation.

Responsibilities

• Conduct conservation assessments of properties considered for acquisition or partnership.
• Evaluate vulnerability of properties and priority species to climate change using AWC framework.
• Contribute to National Science Program components and strategies for research and conservation planning.
• Collaborate with Indigenous groups, partners, agencies, recovery teams and local communities.
• Communicate AWC’s science program to stakeholders and the public through publications, reports and workshops.
• Travel as required to support field activities and stakeholder engagement.

Skills

Field ecology

Climate analysis

Statistical analysis

GIS

Scientific communication

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Higher degree in ecology/conservation biology

Tools

QGIS

ArcGIS

Databases

Job description

About AWC

AWC is a pragmatic global conservation leader, restoring landscapes and providing hope for Australian wildlife. Guided by science, AWC delivers measurable conservation impacts at scale to secure the future of our most endangered species. Our mission is to effectively conserve all Australian wildlife and habitats, and our vision is for a world where Australia’s biodiversity is valued and effectively conserved by an engaged community.

About the Role

Reporting to the National Science Team Manager (NSTM), the Field Ecologist will contribute to AWC’s science program in the National Science Team. The primary focus of this position is progressing the assessment of the conservation value of properties being considered by AWC for acquisition or partnership. A component of the work involves evaluating the vulnerability of potential properties and, as relevant, priority species to climate change, by applying an assessment framework developed by AWC. In addition, the role will be expected to contribute to the broader tasks of the National Science program, as requested, related to the development and review of strategies to prioritise research, conservation land management and Ecohealth monitoring and evaluation.

Duties may change over time, commensurate with AWC requirements, and the skills and expertise of the incumbent. The Field Ecologist must be strongly motivated to make a substantial difference in nature conservation, contribute to the development of the private nature conservation sector, and be willing to help develop and promote AWC’s conservation model.

• Conduct conservation assessments of the conservation value of properties being considered by AWC for acquisition or partnership.
• Evaluate the vulnerability of potential properties and, as relevant, priority species to climate change, by applying an assessment framework developed by AWC.
• Contribute to other components of the National Science Program, as delegated by the NSTM.
• Work effectively with key stakeholders, including Indigenous groups, AWC partners, government agencies, recovery teams, the conservation sector, and local communities, to develop AWC’s national reintroduction program, as delegated by the Senior Ecologist.
• Communicate AWC’s science program to stakeholders, the scientific community and the public through scientific publications, reports, presentations, participation in workshops, etc.
• Assist with AWC’s fundraising activities.
• Commitment to wildlife conservation evidenced through work, education, and other activities.
• Knowledge of Australian wildlife and ecosystems, major threats, and mitigation.
• Research skills including knowledge of ecological literature, experimental design, sampling methods, and statistical analysis.
• Technical competence in the application of databases and spatial software (QGIS or ArcGIS).
• Understanding of climate change impacts on wildlife and ecosystems.
• Collaborative and relationship-building skills.
• Scientific communication skills.
• Strong planning and organisational skills.
• Competence in financial management and compliance.
• Resourcefulness and problem-solving ability.
• Willingness to travel as required.

Qualifications and Experience

• A higher degree (Honours or equivalent) in ecology/conservation biology or a related field.
• Experience working in conservation or a related field highly regarded.
• For appointment at a Senior Field Ecologist level, at least 5 years' professional work experience post-graduation is essential.

Licenses, Certificates, and Training

• Legal right to work in Australia.
• Competence in driving a 4WD in field conditions.
• Training in relevant competencies may be required.

PLEASE NOTE: This role is initially offered as a 2 year fixed-term contract with the possibility of extension or permanency. The role will support the National Science team and be based from the successful candidate's home office location.

AWC values diversity and is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where all backgrounds feel comfortable and respected.