Technical Officer (Vet Nurse), Environment, Tourism, Science And Innovation

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

Job summary

The Moggill Koala Rehabilitation Centre, part of Queensland Government's Wildlife and Threatened Species Branch, seeks a Technical Officer (Vet Nurse) to deliver high-quality care to sick and injured koalas and contribute to statewide wildlife programs.

You will support the Centre's veterinarian, engage with researchers and carers, and participate in research, data collection, and fieldwork across Queensland, including travel and field duties. Strong nursing experience with wildlife is essential.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of clinical nursing with native wildlife (koalas preferred).
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and lead small teams.
• Experience in research, data collection and analysis.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert nursing and husbandry care to koalas and other native wildlife.
• Coordinate and manage staff and volunteers to ensure smooth daily operations.
• Maintain accurate medical and husbandry records using digital systems.
• Coordinate medical equipment maintenance, ordering supplies and SOPs as needed.
• Support research, monitoring and training activities.
• Travel to other sites as needed, including overnight stays.

Skills

Vet nursing

Communication skills

Stakeholder engagement

Leadership

Research & data analysis

Education

Registered veterinary nurse

Job description

Are you passionate about native wildlife and ready to make a real impact in koala conservation? Join our dedicated team at the Moggill Koala Rehabilitation Centre — a specialist facility at the forefront of koala treatment, rehabilitation and research in Queensland.

This is more than a clinical vet nursing role. It's a rare opportunity to work hands‑on with one of Australia's most iconic species, contribute to cutting‑edge conservation efforts and collaborate with leading wildlife hospitals, researchers, and carers across the state.

Your role:

As a Technical Officer (Vet Nurse), you’ll support the Centre's veterinarian in delivering high-quality care to sick, injured, and orphaned koalas. You’ll also contribute to broader wildlife programs across Queensland, including remote fieldwork, research and community engagement.

You will:

• Provide expert nursing and husbandry care to koalas and other native wildlife.
• Coordinate and manage staff and volunteers to ensure smooth daily operations.
• Maintain accurate medical and husbandry records using digital systems.
• Coordinate medical equipment maintenance, ordering supplies and standard operating procedures as needed.
• Support research, monitoring, and training activities.
• Travel to other sites as needed, including overnight stays.
• Work within a 7‑day roster (with appropriate compensation).

Why join us?

• Make a difference: Play a key role in the recovery and release of koalas into the wild.
• Diverse work: Balance clinical care with field-based conservation projects.
• Collaborate widely: Work with major wildlife hospitals, researchers, and carers.
• Grow professionally: Develop your skills in a unique, purpose‑driven environment.
• Support First Nations outcomes: Help embed cultural values in conservation work.
• Be part of QPWS: Join a team that offers professional development, inclusion initiatives, and career pathways for people passionate about protecting nature.

What we're looking for:

We're seeking a skilled and compassionate vet nurse or vet technician who thrives in a dynamic, team‑based environment.

You’ll bring:

• At least 2 years of clinical nursing experience with native wildlife (experience with koalas preferred).
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and lead small teams.
• Experience in research, data collection, and analysis.
• A commitment to safety, inclusion, and respectful workplace culture.

About us:

The Moggill Koala Rehabilitation Centre is part of the Wildlife and Threatened Species Branch within QPWS. We lead statewide efforts to conserve Queensland's native species and ecosystems, ensuring their safe interaction with communities.

Ready to help shape the future of koala conservation?