Lead Rainforest Restoration Scientist on Christmas Island

Department of Education and Training of Australia; Christmas Island; On-site; AUD 100,000 - 112,000; Full time

Job summary

Parks Australia Division on Christmas Island seeks an experienced forest ecologist to lead the Forest Ecology team and drive rehabilitation monitoring programs.

You will manage field trials, GIS data, and collaboration with nursery and field teams to protect endemic species. The role offers unique island living and the chance to shape long-term rainforest restoration efforts in a national park setting.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of tropical or subtropical rainforest ecology and ecosystem function.
• Experience designing and running ecological monitoring programs and trials.
• Experience in ecological restoration or rehabilitation settings.
• Ability to analyse spatial data and present findings in reports.
• Understanding of threatened species and biodiversity conservation.
• Proficiency with GIS (e.g., ArcGIS Pro) and remote sensing or drone imagery is desirable.
• Ability to lead, supervise and develop a small team and promote safety.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise the Forest Ecology team with work planning and staff development.
• Deliver and improve the CIMFR biophysical monitoring program.
• Establish monitoring plots and transects across rehabilitation sites.
• Monitor vegetation growth, canopy development and soil condition.
• Collect and manage ecological data using GIS and field data systems.
• Analyse monitoring results and provide technical reports and management advice.
• Provide recommendations to improve rehabilitation methods and outcomes.
• Collaborate with Nursery Operations and Field Operations on planting and weed control.
• Design and lead field trials and applied ecological research.

Skills

Rainforest ecology

Ecological monitoring

Field surveys

Team leadership

GIS analysis

Remote sensing

Statistical analysis

Communication skills

Education

Ecology or related degree

Tools

ArcGIS Pro

Drone imagery

Field data capture tools

Job description

Parks Australia Division on Christmas Island seeks an experienced forest ecologist to lead the Forest Ecology team and drive rehabilitation monitoring programs.

You will manage field trials, GIS data, and collaboration with nursery and field teams to protect endemic species. The role offers unique island living and the chance to shape long-term rainforest restoration efforts in a national park setting.