Imagine leading projects across tropical islands, navigating some of the world's most spectacular marine environments, and playing a hands-on role in protecting the Great Barrier Reef. As an OO5 Ranger in the Whitsundays, you'll combine leadership, infrastructure delivery, conservation, marine operations, and compliance and enforcement activities while working with a dedicated team to manage and protect this globally significant landscape.

We're looking for an experienced and motivated ranger who enjoys working on the water, leading people, solving complex operational challenges and making a tangible difference to protected area management. If you're passionate about conservation and ready for a role that offers variety, responsibility and adventure, this is an opportunity to make your contribution now!

Job details

Great Barrier Reef and Marine Parks (GBR&MP) Region are excited to share an incredible opportunity for a OO5 Ranger to join the team on a temporary basis until 27/06/2027, with possibility of further extension.

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.

Marine Park Rangers help care for and protect marine parks on both land and sea. They carry out a range of activities as part of the Reef Joint Field Management Program, including checking the health of the environment, talking with the public, doing on-water compliance patrols, and maintaining facilities such as camping areas and toilets. Marine Park Rangers also work closely with Traditional Owners to respect and maintain cultural values.

As an OO5 Ranger within the Whitsundays Management Unit, you will be part of a team of 18 Rangers and report to the Ranger in Charge (Infrastructure). The role leads the planning and delivery of priority infrastructure projects across the management unit, including the maintenance of island assets such as walking tracks, campgrounds and lookouts, and marine infrastructure including public moorings and reef protection markers.

The position also undertakes visitor management, compliance and enforcement activities in partnership with State and Commonwealth agencies, delivering programs related to marine zoning, park use and protected species management. Operating across the marine and island protected areas of the Whitsunday and Mackay Islands region, the role requires strong leadership, project management and stakeholder engagement skills, as well as experience in SCUBA diving, construction and maintenance practices, vessel operations and environmental management.

Role focus:

• Maintain and manage island and marine infrastructure, including visitor facilities, walking tracks, campgrounds, moorings, and reef protection assets.
• Undertake visitor management, compliance, and enforcement activities in partnership with relevant State and Commonwealth agencies.
• Deliver regulatory, education, and conservation programs focused on marine zoning, protected species, and sustainable park use.
• Support operational delivery through planning, procurement, project management, business systems, administration, and community engagement.

This is a physically demanding position that requires a high level of fitness and the ability to work in challenging field environments. Conditions may include prolonged exposure to sun and tropical weather, fire and smoke, registered chemicals and poisons, remote area operations, and extended working hours, including nights and weekends.

To be considered you must hold the following qualifications:

• an automatic/ unrestricted manual driver's licence

There are no mandatory qualifications required for this role. However, as specified below, would be highly regarded:

• Dive Master or higher
• Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal or higher
• Elements of Shipboard Safety
• Senior First Aid
• Advanced Resuscitation

To apply: Lodge an application online at www.smartjobs.qld.gov.au that consists of the following:

• your current resume of no more than 4 page
• 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/690997/26
Closing Date: Thursday, 18 June 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.

• 690997 26 Role Description (Word, 622KB)