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Northern Parks & Forests Regional Operations, Management & Operations, QPWS & Partnerships, Cairns
Ranger (OO6) – Pest Management | Based in Cairns
Ready to lead real change across Queensland’s wild north? Join our Regional Pest Management Team and take on a vital role protecting national parks and CYPAL estates from invasive species. Based in Cairns, you’ll travel extensively to some of the state’s most remote and spectacular landscapes—planning, delivering, and leading pest control projects that make a real impact. You’ll collaborate with Traditional Owners, support staff across the Northern Region, and supervise an OO5 Ranger.
This is your chance to turn your passion for conservation into action—and adventure.
Job details
| Position status | Fixed Term Temporary |
|---|---|
| Position type | Flexible full-time |
| Occupational group | Primary Industry & Environment |
| Classification | OO6 |
| Workplace Location | Cairns region,Far North Qld |
| Job ad reference | QLD/645741/25 |
| Closing date | 14-Jul-2025 |
| Job duration | 3 months |
| Contact person | Steven Coulson |
| Contact details | Mobile: 0477 396 150 Access the National Relay Service |
Ranger (OO6) – Pest Management
Location: Cairns, QLD
Region: Northern Region – Covering Cape York and CYPAL Estates
Travel: Broad regional travel required
Team Leadership + Field Delivery + Joint Management Partnerships
Make Your Next Role One That Truly Makes a Difference
Queensland's most iconic and remote landscapes need you. We're seeking an experienced and motivated Ranger (OO6) to lead pest management operations across the Northern Region, including the stunning but ecologically sensitive Cape York Peninsula Aboriginal Land (CYPAL) estates.
Based in Cairns, you'll be on the frontline of conservation—working across vast, rugged terrain to control invasive species and protect Queensland's incredible biodiversity. This is more than just a job; it's a rare chance to live your values, work with Traditional Owners, and travel to some of the wildest parts of Australia while leading real environmental impact.
Dive Into Your Role
As an OO6 Ranger within the Regional Pest Management Team, you'll:
• Lead and deliver critical pest control programs across the Northern Region—protecting threatened ecosystems from invasive weeds and animals
• Supervise and support a dedicated OO5 Pest Ranger, and work closely with other QPWS staff, Aboriginal Rangers, and landholders
• Provide technical support and regional coordination, ensuring consistent, high standard delivery across multiple estates
• Travel frequently (mainly Monday to Friday) across remote parks and protectedareas to oversee and implement field operations
• Engage with Traditional Owner groups, attend stakeholder meetings, and support joint management outcomes under the CYPAL framework
• Manage projects, contribute to planning and reporting, and ensure safe, effective, and efficient pest management activities.
You'll operate in some of Queensland's most breathtaking, rugged, and ecologically rich parks—where no two days are ever the same.
Why This Role Is a Game-Changer
• Work with purpose – Directly protect native species and habitats from harmful pests
• Partner with Traditional Owners to support cultural and ecological values under CYPAL agreements
• Base yourself in Cairns but explore Cape York's remote and awe-inspiring national parks
• Lead real fieldwork – No desk-bound routine; this is boots-on, hands-dirty conservation in action
• Career development – Hone your leadership, technical, and project management skills in a role with variety and impact
• Shape the future – Help build resilient ecosystems for the next generation of Queenslanders
About You
You're a natural problem solver who thrives in the field, leads with purpose, and understands what it takes to operate in remote environments. You'll be passionate about biosecurity and land protection and committed to working respectfully with Aboriginal landholders under joint management frameworks.
You have:
• Proven experience in pest and weed management, including planning, field delivery, and equipment operation
• Strong leadership and coordination skills, especially in remote or team-based field environments
• High-level cultural awareness and respect, especially working with Aboriginal Corporations and Land Trusts
• Confidence in building partnerships and communicating with diverse stakeholders
• Strong attention to safety, reporting, and operational planning
• Resilience, flexibility, and a love for the outdoors
This is your chance to turn your passion for conservation into action - and adventure.
Applications to remain current for 12 months.
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.
