Step into a career where leadership meets adventure in the heart of the Whitsundays. As Ranger in Charge with the Great Barrier Reef & Marine Parks Region, you’ll guide a skilled team delivering vital infrastructure, conservation, compliance, and visitor management across the iconic Whitsundays.

From marine operations and remote island projects to working alongside Traditional Owners and key stakeholders, no two days are the same. Based in Airlie Beach, this role combines leadership, adventure, environmental impact and hands-on operational delivery in a world-renowned World Heritage Area. If you thrive in dynamic environments and want your work to protect places that matter, this is your opportunity!

Job details

 

Great Barrier Reef and Marine Parks (GBR&MP) Region are excited to share an incredible opportunity for a OO6, Ranger in Charge to join the team on a  Temporary basis till 27/11/2026, with possibility of extension in Airlie Beach location.

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.

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced leader to join our team as Ranger in Charge within the Whitsunday Management Unit. Based in Airlie Beach, this exciting role is responsible for leading infrastructure and visitor management operations across one of Queensland's most iconic natural environments.

As part of the leadership team, you will guide a dedicated team of six staff in the planning, development and delivery of priority infrastructure projects, while ensuring high standards of visitor management, compliance, operational delivery and stakeholder engagement. Strong capability in leadership, project management, infrastructure maintenance, procurement, business systems and administration will be essential to success in this role.

Role focus:
• Lead and manage teams to deliver operational work plans, infrastructure projects, maintenance programs, and park management initiatives within budget and resource allocations.
• Coordinate and deliver park management activities including infrastructure development and maintenance, natural and cultural resource management, fire management, weed and pest control, emergency response planning and plant/equipment operations.
• Build and maintain effective relationships with stakeholders, including government agencies, industry groups, recreational users, commercial operators, neighbouring landholders and Traditional Owners, while supporting community engagement and customer service outcomes.
• Oversee administrative, compliance, and enforcement activities, including planning, reporting, investigations, records management, and fostering a culturally inclusive workplace that supports positive outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Although based in Airlie Beach, the role involves regular travel throughout the Whitsunday Management Unit and participation in marine field operations using a modern vessel fleet, including extended trips at sea each year. Rangers work on a roster that may include weekends and public holidays, with relevant travel and overtime provisions applying. This is a physically demanding role requiring a high level of fitness and resilience, with field conditions including remote area operations, tropical environments, prolonged sun exposure, fire and smoke exposure and extended working hours.

To be considered you must hold the following qualifications:
• An automatic/ unrestricted manual driver's licence.
* Please refer to PD for other desirable quals/licences.

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.

Applications to remain current for 12 months.

Job Ad Reference: QLD/688845/26

Closing Date: Thursday, 28 May 2026

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.

• 688845 26 Role Description v2 (Word, 621KB)