Field Ecologist

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.

• Good planning and organisational skills, including an ability to prioritise and deliver a range of tasks in an effective manner.

• 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.

• Good relationship-building and collaborative skills to perform your role as part of a team of conservation ecologists.

• Capacity to draft scientific reports and publications, contribute to funding applications and reports, and communicate science and conservation messages to a general audience.

• Ability to deliver projects in a cost-effective manner and to manage financial resources, commensurate with the requirements of the position.

• Ability to improvise and ‘problem-solve’, developing practical solutions with limited resources.

• Willingness 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.

• 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.