A Leadership Role Driving Field Operations in the Southern Great Barrier Reef (GBR)
As the Principal Ranger of Southern GBR Marine Park you’ll play a key leadership role in supporting the Regional Director across one of Australia’s most iconic natural areas.
We’re looking for a leader ready to embrace change, drive innovation, and apply their transferable skills to a fast-paced, evolving environment aligning with departmental policies and the Reef Joint Field Management Program.

Job details

Great Barrier Reef and Marine Parks (GBR&MP) Region are excited to share an incredible opportunity for a Principal Ranger to join the team on a temporary basis through to 30 June 2026.

As one of the six regions of the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, the GBR&MP Region delivers conservation and management activities across land and sea including implementing the Reef Joint Field Management Program in the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. Additionally, the Region oversees the state's southern marine parks - Great Sandy Marine Park and Moreton Bay Marine Park.

This role is responsible for the Southern Great Barrier Reef Marine Park within the region.

As Principal Ranger, you'll lead operations across the Southern Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, managing fire, pest control, compliance, assets, and visitor services. Support the Regional Director, guide a skilled team, and ensure effective, policy-aligned delivery of programs under the Reef Joint Field Management Program in this iconic location. You'll receive support to shape the role, using your prior knowledge and transferable skills to implement impactful change and strengthen team collaboration. You'll oversee daily operations including fire and pest management, compliance, asset maintenance, capital projects, and visitor services. 

Role focus: 
• Develop and implement business and operational plans to manage the QPWS estate, ensuring alignment with strategic outcomes, policies and legislative requirements.
• Lead and manage a multidisciplinary and geographically dispersed team, providing logistical support, resources, and operational oversight across the region.
• Build and maintain effective relationships with stakeholders including communities, Indigenous groups, other government agencies and industry while representing QPWS in meetings and consultations.
• Manage financial administration, ensure accurate reporting, monitor progress of operational plans, and provide timely advice to the Regional Director.

To be considered you must hold the following qualifications: 
• an automatic/ unrestricted manual driver's licence
A formal qualification in environmental or conservation disciplines would be highly regarded

To apply: 
Lodge an application online at www.smartjobs.qld.gov.au that consists of the following:
• your current resume of no more than 2 pages
• a short 1 page statement that briefly describes why you are the best suited person for this role.

This position is located in Rosslyn Bay, Gladstone or Airlie Beach , please indicate your location preference for this role on your application. 

Applications to remain current for 12 months. 

Job Ad Reference: QLD/655639/25
Closing Date: Thursday, 4 September 2025 

Further information

We are committed to building inclusive cultures in the Queensland public sector that respect and promote human rights and diversity.

Please ensure you download all attachments and follow the instructions on how to apply.

Documents

Before applying for this vacancy please ensure you read the documents below.

• 655639 25 - Role Description (Word, 338KB)