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 Region and Program:
In Central South Australia, AWC operates Newhaven Wildlife Sanctuary in the Northern Territory, alongside a network of wildlife sanctuaries in South Australia including Yookamurra, Buckaringa, Dakalanta, Western Rivers Refuge and Kalamurina.
Covering almost 262,000 hectares, Newhaven Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Australia’s largest non-government protected areas. It supports a diverse range of arid habitats, is recognised as a significant birdwatching destination and provides critical refuge for central Australian wildlife.
AWC’s science program at Newhaven and across the region focuses on ecological monitoring, reintroduction of locally extinct species and applied ecological research. This work plays a key role in guiding conservation and land management outcomes across the landscape.
About the Role:
We are seeking a Field Ecologist to join our Central South team, based at Newhaven Wildlife Sanctuary in the Northern Territory. Applicants with substantial experience may also be considered for appointment as a Senior Field Ecologist.
Covering almost 262,000 hectares, Newhaven is one of Australia's largest non-government protected areas, offering beautiful scenery and a diverse mix of arid habitats. It is a renowned birdwatching destination and a hotspot for central Australian wildlife. AWC also operates five wildlife sanctuaries in South Australia: Yookamurra, Buckaringa, Dakalanta, Western Rivers Refuge and Kalamurina.
Reporting to the Central South Regional Ecologist, you will contribute to the delivery of AWC's science program across one or more AWC properties and partnership sites in the region. The role is predominantly field-based, with field work conducted at Newhaven and other AWC wildlife sanctuaries. It also involves associated planning, preparation, equipment maintenance, data management and reporting, along with intellectual contributions to the development, analysis and interpretation of the science program, commensurate with the professional skills associated with a conservation science degree or equivalent.
Collaboration is central to this role. At AWC, the Science Team works in an integrated manner with the Operations Team to design and deliver effective land management and to measure and report on ecological health. You will be expected to build and maintain strong professional relationships with the Operations team in the region. You will also work closely with Traditional Owners and Ranger Groups in the delivery of AWC's science program on sanctuaries and partnership sites, and support AWC's Philanthropy team with supporter events and provide information and content to the Communications team to assist with public education efforts.
Key duties:
- Contribute to the delivery of the science program at AWC properties and partnership sites in the region, as delegated by the Regional Ecologist, working as part of a team of ecologists.
- Undertake ecological monitoring, support the reintroduction of locally extinct species and contribute to applied ecological research.
- Manage, analyse and report on scientific data, ensuring a high level of scientific integrity.
- Work in an integrated way with AWC Operations staff to plan and report on conservation and land management strategies across the region.
- Build and maintain effective relationships with key stakeholders, including Indigenous groups, AWC partners, government agencies, recovery teams, the conservation sector and local communities.
- Contribute to the communication of AWC's science program to stakeholders, the scientific community and the public.
- Assist with AWC's fundraising activities as required.
Critical Competencies:
- A demonstrated commitment to wildlife conservation, evidenced through work, education and other relevant activities.
- Strong ecological field skills including knowledge of, and experience in, the application of standard survey methods in vertebrate ecology, and sound skills in field ecology generally.
- Well-developed knowledge of the conservation of Australian wildlife and ecosystems including the nature and functioning of the Australian biota; major threats to native wildlife and their habitats; and how these threats can be mitigated.
- Capacity to undertake ecological research including sound knowledge of the ecological literature; knowledge of experimental design and sampling methods; skills in the management and analysis of ecological data, and familiarity with computer programs and apps, commensurate with the position.
- Getting things done: you need good planning and organisational skills, including an ability to prioritise and deliver a range of tasks in an effective manner.
- Leadership: Good interpersonal skills are essential, including the ability to work positively and productively as part of a small team in remote locations, with the capacity to manage a small team as required.
- Collaboration: you need good relationship-building and collaborative skills to perform your role as part of a team of conservation ecologists. You must be willing to contribute your expertise, and learn from the skills and ideas of your colleagues. You must be willing to engage with the experience and world-view of a diverse range of stakeholders involved in conservation management including AWC Operations managers and other staff, AWC partners, Traditional Owners and the broader community.
- Scientific communication skills: you will have a capacity to draft scientific reports and publications, contribute to funding applications and reports, and communicate science and conservation messages to a general audience.
- Financial management, paperwork and compliance: you will have the ability to deliver projects in a cost-effective manner and to manage financial resources, commensurate with the requirements of the position.
- Resourcefulness: you will have the ability to improvise and ‘problem-solve’, developing practical solutions with limited resources.
- Travel and time in the field: you must be willing to travel away from base and conduct field work to meet the requirements of the position
Qualifications and Experience:
An Honours degree in ecology or a related discipline is required (or a degree plus equivalent experience). Experience working in conservation or a related field is well-regarded but not essential. Where a candidate brings substantial post-graduation experience (approximately 5+ years full-time equivalent), they may be considered for appointment at the Senior Field Ecologist level.
Licenses, Certificates and/or Training:
- A valid manual driver’s licence is essential. You will need to be competent in driving a 4WD in field conditions. Training in relevant competencies may be required.
- First aid certificate or willingness to obtain.
- Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (police check) or willingness to obtain.
PLEASE NOTE: This role is initially offered as a 12-month fixed-term contract with the possibility of extension or permanency. The roles are based at Newhaven Wildlife Sanctuary, approx. 4.5 hours’ drive north west of Alice Springs. Basic on-site accommodation is provided to the successful candidate.
To view the detailed position description for this role, click here:
Field Ecologist | Newhaven
Senior Field Ecologist | Newhaven
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.
