Principal Ranger (Fire)

Queensland Government; Townsville City; On-site; AUD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Queensland Government is seeking an experienced fire management leader for the AO7 Principal Ranger (Fire) role across Central Region. You will lead fire planning, planned burning, bushfire preparedness and response, and workforce capability development across national parks and protected areas, guiding operations and strategic decisions.

You'll collaborate with First Nations peoples, the Queensland Fire Department, local communities and stakeholders to deliver safe, effective fire management

Responsibilities

• Lead fire management across Queensland's landscapes and drive continuous improvement.
• Lead a specialist fire team and work with operational staff to deliver safe, effective fire management practices.
• Represent QPWS on regional and state fire management forums and groups.
• Contribute to regional disaster management activities including preparedness and response.

Job description

AO7 Principal Ranger Fire - Permanent

Lead fire management across some of Queensland's most iconic and diverse landscapes. Shape strategy. Build capability. Drive continuous improvement.

Work with Rangers, First Nations peoples, the Queensland Fire Department and local communities to deliver planned burning, bushfire preparedness and emergency response. Lead a specialist fire team. Influence regional and state-wide outcomes. Help protect people, parks, wildlife and cultural values.

From strategic planning and partnerships to boots-on-the-ground operations, no two days are the same. If you are an experienced fire leader who thrives on challenge, collaboration and making a real difference, this is an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy.

Principal Ranger (Fire)

Are you an experienced fire management professional looking to lead meaningful work across some of Queensland's most significant natural and cultural landscapes?

As Principal Ranger (Fire), you will lead Central Region's fire management program across national parks, State forests, timber reserves, marine parks and other protected areas. You will provide strategic leadership for fire planning, planned burning, bushfire preparedness and response, workforce capability, governance and continuous improvement, helping to protect people, property, cultural values and the environment.

This is an opportunity to lead a specialist regional fire team and work closely with operational staff to deliver safe, effective and contemporary fire management practices. Your leadership will help shape regional priorities, strengthen organisational capability and support conservation and community safety outcomes across more than 3.9 million hectares of managed land.

The role requires strong collaboration and relationship-building skills. You will work with First Nations peoples, the Queensland Fire Department, local communities, neighbouring landholders and other stakeholders to support coordinated fire and land management outcomes. You will also represent QPWS on regional and state fire management forums and bushfire management groups.

Beyond fire management, you will contribute to regional disaster management activities, supporting preparedness, response and recovery efforts associated with bushfires and other natural disasters.

This is a diverse and rewarding role that combines strategic leadership with practical operational delivery. One day you may be contributing to regional planning, capability development or partnership initiatives; the next, supporting fire operations, emergency response activities or visiting remote areas to engage with staff and stakeholders.

If you are a collaborative leader with strong fire management expertise, sound judgement and a passion for protecting Queensland's natural and cultural values,

This position is Negotiable in Central Region – Rockhampton, Townsville or Mackay preferred. Please indicate your location preference for this position on your application.

Applications to remain current for 12 months.

Job Ad Reference: QLD/700009/26

Closing Date: Thursday, 24 September 2026

Occupational group Primary Industry & Environment