Department for Environment and Water
Job reference: 859925
Location: 5481 - WIRRABARA
Job status: Short Term Contract
Eligibility: Open to Everyone

About the Role:
The Senior Ranger is responsible for the management and supervision of employees and contractors, and the development of a range of operational programs and projects to ensure the effective management of parks and reserves, and other lands as required, within the District. Core responsibilities include the coordination of conservation and wildlife values, the maintenance and presentation of park facilities and assets to ensure park visitors enjoy a safe and memorable experience. The role builds effective and positive working relationships with key partners, including Aboriginal communities, park neighbours, lessees and representatives from conservation and volunteer groups. Active participation in fire management and emergency response is required.

What can we offer you!

• Working in an organisation that is contributing to significant environmental outcomes in the great state of South Australia!
• Be part of a fun, collaborative and supportive team establishing a new National Park, contributing to the flagship Bounceback program and delivering a cutting-edge fire program.
• Free entry into DEW managed Parks in South Australia.
• Salary Sacrifice Benefits.
• Access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Access to our Fitness Passport Program.
• Meaningful and rewarding career.

Contract: 
Contract for up to 30 June 2027

Essential Criteria (including qualifications):

• Demonstrates a fundamental and current understanding of contemporary approaches to Project Management, Risk Management, Nature Conservation, Land Management and Visitor Management.
• Knowledge of the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972 and Regulations, Wilderness Protection Act 1992, Marine Parks Act 2007 and other relevant legislation.
• Working knowledge of and ability to interpret and apply relevant legislation and policy.
• Has in depth and current knowledge of and experience in ecological and nature conservation management principles and practices including water resources, wildlife management, fire management, control of environmental pest plant and animal species, habitat restoration and associated threat abatement across terrestrial, riverine and marine environments.
• Proven track record in effectively supervising a team, and the ability to foster a collaborative environment to achieve organisational goals.
• A current class “C” driver’s licence and willingness and ability to safely operate a 4wd.

Special Conditions:

• Will be required to participate in emergency preparedness, response, recovery, search and rescue and marine mammal stranding activities as directed by government agencies. This may require at times, some out of hour’s work including the participation in an “on-call” roster.
• Will be required to undertake a medical and fitness assessment for a Fire Fighting Role Classification as defined in the DEW Fire Management Policy and Procedures.
• Will be required to work some weekends and public holidays for which a penalty rate will be applied.
• May be required to work from any location within the region or any region or management unit within the state.
• Wearing a company uniform during working hours and/or when representing the department is mandatory.
• Intra and inter-state travel is required, including extended periods of time away from home and travel in light aircraft.
• The Department for Environment and Water is committed to providing a safe environment to all children and young people who access our services and visit our sites.  This role requires candidates to provide a valid Working with Children Check which must be renewed every five years before expiry. DEW will cover the cost of renewal.
• This role requires candidates to provide a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check which must be renewed every three years before expiry. DEW will cover the cost of renewal.
• You must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or provide evidence that you hold a valid working visa that allows you to work in Australia.

A successful applicant who is not currently employed by the Department for Environment and Water will be required to have an original photo identification document sighted and provide a valid Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (NCCHC) issued within the last 12 months. This information must be supplied by all applicants who are shortlisted for interview.

Remuneration: 
OPS4 $82,212 min - $86,180 max p.a.

Enquiries to:
Brett Coghlan, Ranger in Charge 
[email protected]
Mobile: 0428 691 740

Application Instructions:
Applications are to be submitted online through I WORK FOR SA.

Applicants are to submit a pre-employment declaration, current CV and letter of application (max. 3 pages) addressing the Key Role Outcomes as outlined in the Role Description.

The Department for Environment and Water is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage applications from people with diverse backgrounds including all ages and gender identities, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, people with disability, culturally and linguistically diverse and LGBTIQA+.

Applications close: 18/10/2026 11:00 PM

Attachments:
- Pre-Employment-Declaration_240522.pdf
- RD OPS4 Senior Ranger (Supervisor).pdf

Flexibility Statement
The South Australian public sector promotes diversity and flexible ways of working including part-time. Applicants are encouraged to discuss the flexible working arrangements for this role.