Ranger in Charge

Ranger in Charge – Gawler Ranges National Park (OPS6)

Step into a career-defining leadership opportunity as Ranger in Charge at the Gawler Ranges National Park—one of South Australia's most spectacular and ecologically significant landscapes. The role provides the opportunity to live and work on-park, lead a committed team, and contribute to meaningful conservation and co-management outcomes alongside the Gawler Ranges People.

As Ranger in Charge, you will lead the delivery of park management across one of the state's most iconic conservation areas. You will oversee staff, guide operational priorities, and work collaboratively with Traditional Owners through established co-management arrangements.

You will play a key role in delivering significant conservation programs, including:

1. Reintroduction and recovery of threatened species​
2. Protection of key species such as Yellow-footed Rock Wallabies, Sandhill Dunnart and Malleefowl
3. Implementation of park management strategies and programs
4. Enhancing visitor experiences in a unique and remote natural setting

Salary & Benefits

1. OPS6 Salary: $94,002 – $98,991 per annum.
2. 12% superannuation plus recreation leave loading.
3. Penalty loading for weekend and public holiday work.
4. Subsidised on-park accommodation provided.
5. Locality allowance.
6. Flexible working arrangements.
7. Approximate total employment value: $128,000 per annum.

What's in it for You?

1. Live on-park and immerse yourself in one of South Australia's most remarkable landscapes.
2. Lead a passionate, high-performing team and influence conservation outcomes.
3. Work in genuine partnership with the Gawler Ranges People, supporting cultural heritage and shared land management.
4. Make an impact on threatened species recovery and biodiversity conservation.
5. Enjoy the lifestyle of the nearby Wudinna community, with access to schools, healthcare, and sporting facilities.
6. Be supported by experienced colleagues across the Eyre and Far West Region and statewide networks.
7. Ongoing professional development and training.
8. The opportunity to shape your career in a high-impact leadership role.

Apply Now and take the next step in your career and help shape the future of Gawler Ranges National Park.

Contract:

Ongoing

Essential / Desirable Qualifications:

1. A current class “C” driver’s licence and willingness and ability to safely operate a 4wd is essential.
2. An appropriate tertiary qualification in natural resource management or other relevant field is desirable.
3. Experience working with Aboriginal Communities is highly desirable.

Special Conditions:

1. Will be required to participate in emergency operations including bushfire operations, search and rescue and marine mammal strandings. This may require at times, some out of hour’s work including the participation in an “on-call” roster.
2. Will be required to work some weekends, public holidays and days of significant fire danger for which a penalty rate will be applied.
3. 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.
4. May be required to work from any location within the region or any region or management unit within the state.
5. A current Provide First Aid Certificate is desirable (HLTAID001; HLTAID002 and HLTAID003).
6. Intra or interstate travel is required, including extended periods of time away from home and travel in light aircraft.
7. 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 without restrictions.
8. Prior to being employed, the successful candidate will be required to provide a valid Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (NCCHC), which is required to be renewed every three years. DEW will cover the cost of renewal.
9. Prior to being employed, the successful candidate will be required to provide a Department of Human Services (DHS) Working with Children Check (WWCC) which is required to be renewed every five years. DEW will cover the cost of renewal.
10. Wearing a company uniform during working hours and/or when representing the department is mandatory.
11. 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.

Remuneration:

OPS6 $94,002 min - $98,991 max p.a.

Applications are to be submitted online through I WORK FOR SA. 848746

Applications close: 12/07/2026 11:00 PM