Ranger in Charge

Queensland Government; Cooktown; On-site; AUD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The Queensland Government in Cooktown is seeking a Ranger in Charge to lead seven staff and oversee national parks across the Cooktown Management Unit, guiding fire management, visitor services, and cultural heritage protection.

You will work with Joint Management partners, Aboriginal Corporations, and Land Trusts, coordinating budgets, resources, safety, and project delivery in a dynamic environment. A current manual driver's licence is required; applicants from all backgrounds are welcome.

Job description

Ready to lead, make an impact and experience life in one of Queensland's most spectacular regions? Based in Cooktown, this Ranger in Charge role offers the opportunity to work in a unique environment where tropical rainforests, cultural heritage and world-class natural landscapes meet. You'll enjoy a rewarding leadership position with a supportive team, competitive salary, 12.75% superannuation and the chance to contribute to the management of nationally significant parks alongside Traditional Owner partners. If you're seeking meaningful work, professional growth and an outdoor lifestyle that combines conservation, community and adventure, this could be the role for you.

As Ranger in Charge, you will lead a team of seven staff and work closely with Joint Management partners, including Aboriginal Corporations and Land Trusts, to protect and manage national parks across the Cooktown Management Unit. You'll oversee a diverse program of work including fire management, weed and pest control, visitor and asset management, capital works, compliance activities, emergency response planning and the protection of natural and cultural values. The role requires strong leadership, communication and people management skills, along with the ability to build productive relationships with Traditional Owners, local communities, neighbouring landholders, government agencies and other stakeholders. We're looking for someone who can plan and manage projects, budgets and resources, support staff development, maintain high safety standards and deliver operational outcomes in a dynamic environment. Experience in conservation, land or natural resource management, infrastructure or project delivery will be highly regarded. A current unrestricted manual driver's licence is required. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and encourage people with disability and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to apply.

Applications to remain current for 12 months.

Occupational group Primary Industry & Environment