Department for Environment and Water
Job reference: 855769
Location: 5700 - PORT AUGUSTA
Job status: Long Term Contract
Eligibility: Open to Everyone

About the Role:

This role provides an exciting opportunity to join a dedicated team responsible for implementing the Bounceback Program - a multi-region threat abatement and species conservation project in South Australia's arid and semi-arid rangelands. The Bounceback Field Ecologist will provide project support and basic ecological knowledge to implement Bounceback Program projects and activities, primarily on National Parks across the Gawler Ranges, Flinders Ranges, and Olary Ranges. 
 
The Field Ecologist assists the Bounceback team with activities such as species surveys and monitoring, feral animal control, data collation and management and report preparation. The role works with key partners including Ranger staff, volunteers, contractors, neighbours and Aboriginal communities to maximise awareness, delivery capacity and achievements of Bounceback projects. Field work in remote locations will be 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.
• Hybrid working model with flexible working options including work from home available to promote work life balance.
• 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: Term Contract up to 2 years

Essential Criteria (including qualifications):

• A university degree in environment, conservation or a related NRM discipline.
• Knowledge of South Australian fauna and flora species (including weed species) and their ecology.
• Knowledge of fauna and flora ecological survey methods and techniques.
• Experience in collating, documenting and managing technical data and information.
• Demonstrates good communication skills (verbal and written) in an applied science and/or NRM setting.
• Is thorough in checking work to ensure alignment with the expected standards and protocols of the organisation.
• Ability to work effectively and maintain relationships with a team and a range of stakeholders.
• Demonstrates ability to work alone and be self-reliant.
• A current Class C driver’s licence.
• Willingness and ability to safely operate a 4WD.
• A current First Aid Certificate.

Special Conditions:

• May be required to participate in emergency preparedness, response and recovery activities required by government agencies.  
• 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.
• 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.
• Wearing a company uniform during working hours and/or when representing the department is mandatory.
• Inter and intrastate and remote area travel is required, including travel in light aircraft.
• Will be required to undertake intra or interstate travel, regular overnight absences, and work outside of the normal hours of work.

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: PO1 ($73,533 min - $89,764 max) p.a.

Enquiries and Applications to:

Matthew Heard, Coordinator, Bounceback Program
[email protected]
0499 657 905

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 Essential Criteria (including qualifications) 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: 09/09/2026 11:00 PM

Attachments:
- PO1 P59551 Field Ecologist - RD.pdf
- Pre-Employment-Declaration_240522.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.