Introduction:
About AWC
AWC is a pragmatic global conservation leader, restoring landscapes and providing hope for Australian wildlife. Guided by science, AWC delivers measurable conservation impacts at scale to secure the future of our most endangered species.
At AWC we are inspired by the unparalleled richness of Australia’s wildlife and we are united by our determination to protect its unique animals and landscapes. It is our mission to effectively conserve all Australian wildlife and habitats and our vision is for a world where Australia’s biodiversity is valued and effectively conserved by an engaged community.
The delivery of AWC’s mission is highly reliant on all AWC working collaboratively with each other as a cohesive, engaged, collaborative, high performing group guided by strong, effective leaders.
AWC’s work is guided by the following values. At AWC, we are:
- Accountable – taking ownership of our actions and outcomes
- Informed – working together to acquire and apply evidence, knowledge and experience
- Respectful – demonstrating care, recognition and integrity
- Dedicated – committed to delivering effective outcomes, with resilience and tenacity
- Innovative – applying creative thinking for effective solutions
- Sustainable – delivering long-term financial and ecological viability.
About the Role
AWC has used machine learning for species recognition and image processing since 2019, including developing a globally recognised model and operating a pipeline that processes up to 3 million wildlife camera images each month. With the emergence of large language models and tools such as Microsoft Copilot, AWC is expanding its AI capability to include broader organisational use, agentic AI and workforce readiness. This is balanced with a strong focus on data privacy, cyber security, work-life balance and the role of people in driving conservation outcomes. AWC has established initial AI governance, delivered introductory Copilot training, and developed a roadmap for AI applications and capability uplift.
The AI Lead drives the implementation of AWC’s AI roadmap, delivering practical applications that improve conservation outcomes, operational efficiency and workforce capability. The role leads organisation-wide adoption of Microsoft Copilot, agents, CoWork and related tools, coordinating internal and external stakeholders to deliver solutions, capability uplift and training across office and field teams.
Critical Competencies
- AI strategy and organisational enablement.
- Microsoft 365 and Copilot deployment and optimisation.
- Design and implementation of AI-enabled processes, data integrations and analytical solutions.
- Training and facilitation at enterprise scale, including coordination of internal and external providers.
- Vendor and consultant management.
- Technical literacy across machine learning, Azure and data pipelines.
- Ability to support and optimise existing machine learning solutions, including species recognition models.
- Data integration and process design.
- Strong communication and stakeholder engagement across Technology, Science, Operations and Corporate teams.
Qualifications
- Tertiary qualification in Information Technology, Data Science, Engineering, Business or related field.
- Relevant certifications in Microsoft Azure, AI or data platforms (desirable).
- Experience in Python, use of GitHub, Prompt design and Visual Studio/Code an advantage
Experience
- Demonstrated experience leading AI or digital transformation initiatives in a complex organisation.
- Experience implementing Microsoft 365 and Copilot or similar enterprise tools.
- Experience designing and delivering organisation-wide training programs.
- Experience working with external vendors or consultants to deliver technology outcomes.
- Exposure to data integration, analytics or automation projects.
- Experience working across distributed or field-based teams (highly desirable).
To view the detailed position description for this role, click here: AI Implementation Lead
Join our Journey
Take the leap and start your next adventure with the AWC! AWC reserves the right to start screening applicants and interviewing throughout the recruitment process.
Initial enquiries: [email protected]
Applications: To submit an application, click ‘Apply’ and follow the prompts to complete an online application form. Your application must include CV and covering letter, briefly addressing the critical competencies listed in the detailed job description attachment.
Please note:
- Applicants must be an Australian citizen/permanent resident or have a suitable visa in place in order to apply. Sponsorship is not available.
- Applicants will undergo relevant pre-employment checks, which may include a national police clearance, online medical and a values-based assessment. Please note that the cost of the police check is the responsibility of the applicant.
- If you apply for this role, AWC will include you in its ongoing updates and communications about its events, activities and fundraising initiatives. You may opt out of these communications at any time.
- Any application submitted to AWC will be handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy, available at www.australianwildlife.org/privacy-policy. By providing us with your contact details, you consent to receive communications and direct educational material will remain current until you advise us otherwise.
AWC is a welcoming and inclusive organisation that invites individuals from diverse backgrounds, such as those who identify as First Nations and Torres Strait Islander, individuals with disabilities, the LGBTIQA+ community, neurodivergent individuals, and those from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds, to apply for the opportunity. AWC values and is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable to be themselves, and where a range of perspectives, cultures, and voices are respected and recognised as a key part to the success of AWC. To be eligible for consideration, applicants must also have the right to live and work in Australia.
