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Senior Ranger
Northern Parks & Forests Regional Operations; Management & Operations; Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service & Partnerships; Cairns (Preferred - Flexible within northern region)
AO5 Senior Ranger – Pest (Cairns)
Are you ready to lead and protect some of Queensland’s most iconic landscapes?
As AO5 Senior Ranger – Pest, you’ll coordinate and deliver pest management programs across national parks, state forests and reserves, ensuring biodiversity, cultural values, and natural assets are safeguarded. You’ll manage projects, supervise Pest Team members, support Northern Region staff, and work closely with joint management partners, stakeholders, and local communities. This role involves significant remote travel and occasional periods away, keeping every day varied and adventure filled. If you’re organised, passionate, and love hands-on, meaningful work in the great outdoors, this role puts you at the frontline of conservation with boots firmly on the ground.
Job details
| Position status | Fixed Term Temporary |
|---|---|
| Position type | Flexible full-time |
| Occupational group | Accounting and Finance |
| Classification | AO5 |
| Workplace Location | Cairns region,Far North Qld |
| Job ad reference | QLD/678607/26 |
| Closing date | 23-Feb-2026 |
| Job duration | Until 01 May 2026 with possible extension |
| Contact person | Steven Coulson |
| Contact details | Phone: 0477 396 150 Access the National Relay Service |
Job Title: Senior Ranger (AO5) - Pest Management
Location: Cairns, Queensland
Calling all nature enthusiasts and pest-busting pros!
Are you ready to swap the office for the great outdoors? Do you dream of working in some of Queensland's most stunning landscapes while making a real difference to our environment? If you've got a knack for tackling pests and a passion for protecting our natural wonders, we've got the perfect job for you!
Join us as a Senior Ranger (Pest Management) and become a key player in safeguarding Queensland's national parks, state forests, and reserves. You'll be part of a team that ensures these precious places remain protected, accessible, and loved by all Queenslanders.
As a Senior Ranger specialising in Pest Management, you'll be the go-to expert for keeping invasive pests in check. Based in beautiful Cairns, you'll lead the charge on pest control projects, work with local communities, and help preserve our unique ecosystems. This role is not for the faint-hearted - it's hands-on, adventurous, and will take you to some of the most remote and breathtaking corners of the state.
Your Mission (Should You Choose to Accept It):
• Lead Epic Projects: Take charge of pest management projects that protect our parks and wildlife. From planning to execution, you'll be the driving force behind our efforts.
• Be the Pest Whisperer: Share your expertise with our Northern Region team, providing technical support and guidance to ensure we're always on top of our game.
• Build Partnerships: Work with local communities, stakeholders, and joint management partners to tackle pest issues together. You'll be the face of collaboration and teamwork.
• Explore the Wild: Travel to remote locations, camp under the stars, and experience the beauty of Queensland's natural landscapes - all while making a difference.
• Lead the Pack: Supervise and inspire your team of pest-busting legends, ensuring everyone is safe, motivated, and ready to take on any challenge.
What We're Looking For
We need someone who's as passionate about the environment as they are about rolling up their sleeves and getting the job done. You'll need to be a natural leader, a great communicator, and a problem-solving whiz.
You'll be perfect for this role if you have:
• Experience in pest management and a love for tackling environmental challenges head-on.
• Leadership skills to guide and motivate a team of dedicated rangers.
• A knack for building strong relationships with stakeholders and local communities.
• A solid understanding of the laws and policies that protect Queensland's natural areas.
• A sense of adventure and the ability to thrive in remote and rugged environments.
What You'll Need:
• A current manual driver's licence (you'll be hitting the road - a lot!).
• The flexibility to travel and stay in remote locations during busy times (think Monday to Friday adventures).
• Relevant qualifications or equivalent experience in natural resource management, environmental science, or a related field.
Why You'll Love It Here:
• Work in some of the most jaw-dropping locations in Queensland – your office is nature itself!
• Be part of a passionate team that's making a real impact on the environment.
• Take on exciting challenges and grow your career in conservation and land management.
• Enjoy the satisfaction of knowing you're helping to protect Queensland's incredible biodiversity.
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
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