Ranger

Queensland Government; Cooktown; On-site; AUD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Queensland Government in Mossman is seeking a Ranger to lead field-based conservation across Daintree, Mt Lewis, Mt Spurgeon and nearby protected areas. You will work with Traditional Owners, local councils and partners to manage visitor experiences and protect natural values.

The role combines leadership, land management and weed/pest control, with tasks ranging from monitoring biodiversity to infrastructure maintenance and compliance.

Responsibilities

• Lead weed survey and control programs across protected areas.
• Coordinate and participate in fire management and visitor management activities.
• Maintain park assets and support annual work planning and budgeting.

Job description

Imagine spending your workday helping protect some of Far North Queensland's most spectacular rainforests, mountains and national parks. Based in Mossman, this Ranger role offers the opportunity to lead hands‑on conservation projects across the Daintree, Mt Lewis, Mt Spurgeon and surrounding protected areas. You'll work alongside Traditional Owners, local councils, partner organisations and fellow rangers to care for Country, manage visitor experiences and protect important natural and cultural values. If you enjoy practical outdoor work, leading field-based activities and tackling challenges in remote and rewarding environments, this is an opportunity to make a real difference while working in one of Queensland's most remarkable landscapes.

As a Ranger based in Mossman, you will play a leading role in the day‑to‑day management of national parks, reserves and other protected areas across the region. This is a practical, field‑based position that combines leadership, conservation and land management activities. A significant part of the role involves coordinating and participating in weed survey and control programs, often working closely with local government, Traditional Owner organisations, contractors and other partner agencies to protect environmentally significant areas. The work regularly involves operating in rugged rainforest and mountain environments, navigating remote locations and carrying out physically demanding field activities.

You will coordinate and undertake a wide variety of park management activities, including weed and pest management, fire management, natural and cultural resource management, infrastructure maintenance and visitor management. The role also includes supporting recreation and infrastructure projects, assisting with annual work planning and budgeting, maintaining park assets and undertaking compliance and enforcement activities where required.

Building strong relationships is an important part of the position. You will work closely with local Traditional Owners, including the Western Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation and Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation, as well as community groups, stakeholders and partner agencies to support practical joint management outcomes and achieve conservation goals.

The role also involves responding to visitor enquiries, conducting park patrols, supporting emergency response activities such as wildfire suppression, natural disaster recovery, search and rescue operations, and assisting with the supervision and development of staff, students and volunteers. Alongside field‑based responsibilities, you will contribute to administrative functions including maintaining records, coordinating procurement activities and supporting workplace health and safety initiatives. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys working outdoors, leading teams and contributing to the long‑term protection of some of Queensland's most important natural areas.

Applications to remain current for 12 months.

Occupational group

Primary Industry & Environment