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Assistant Principal Ranger
Northern Parks & Forests Regional Operations; Management & Operations; Queensland Parks and Wildlife & Partnerships; Cairns or flexible upon agreement
This is a rare opportunity to step into a senior leadership role supporting the delivery of vital infrastructure across Cape York. As an Assistant Principal Ranger, you will play a key role in leading the Heavy Plant Unit, helping ensure roads, tracks and essential assets that support protected areas and remote communities are safely built and maintained. Working closely with rangers, Traditional Owners, plant operators and partners, you’ll have a hands on role in shaping practical outcomes on Country. If you enjoy leading people, managing large plant and works programs, and making a visible difference in one of Queensland’s most unique regions, this role offers rewarding and meaningful work.
Job details
| Position status | Permanent |
|---|---|
| Position type | Full-time |
| Occupational group | Primary Industry & Environment |
| Classification | AO6 |
| Workplace Location | Cairns region,Flexible |
| Job ad reference | QLD/686574/26 |
| Closing date | 11-May-2026 |
| Job duration | |
| Contact person | Nick Smith |
| Contact details | M: 0428 183 174 Access the National Relay Service |
As the Assistant Principal Ranger, you will provide high‑level leadership and coordination of the Heavy Plant Unit, supporting the delivery of capital works and maintenance programs across the region with a focus on Cape York. This includes planning, delivering and reporting on annual work programs and budgets to ensure heavy plant operations, roads and infrastructure are managed safely, efficiently and in line with legislative and business requirements that support Queensland's protected areas.
You will lead and support a small, multidisciplinary team, setting priorities, coordinating resources and ensuring staff are well trained and supported to operate in remote and challenging environments. A key part of the role is overseeing the effective use, maintenance and deployment of heavy plant and equipment, as well as improving systems, procedures and standards that support safe and reliable delivery of works.
The role also involves contributing to emergency response and recovery operations when required, including supporting access, infrastructure repair and on‑ground works following natural events. You will provide timely advice to senior leaders, maintain accurate reporting, and prepare or coordinate briefing notes, project plans, reports and correspondence.
Strong relationships are central to success in this role. You will work closely with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, contractors, local stakeholders and other government agencies to support collaborative planning and delivery of works on Country. You will also assess and provide recommendations on applications related to natural resource and environmental management, using sound judgement and delegated authority where appropriate.
Throughout all aspects of the role, you will promote a safe, respectful and inclusive workplace, support positive team culture, and contribute to practical outcomes that balance operational needs, environmental care and community expectations.
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.
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Documents
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