Regional Ecologist

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. Our Values 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. Role Overview AWC is seeking to fill two Regional Ecologist positions across the Central South region (Alice Springs or Adelaide based) and the North East region (Cairns based). The Regional Ecologist is a senior position in AWC’s science program, reporting to the National Conservation Manager (NCSM). The primary responsibility is the development, implementation and communication of AWC’s science program on AWC properties and partnerships in their region, as well as managing AWC ecologists working in their region. Responsibilities Collaborate closely with AWC’s National Science Team to develop and implement Ecohealth Monitoring Plans, Population and Conservation Management Plans, Conservation Land Management Strategies, Reintroduction Plans and Translocation Proposals for properties within the region. Develop good working professional relationships with counterparts in AWC’s Operations Team for conservation land management on AWC properties. Engage with external stakeholders at the state and regional levels and represent AWC in conferences, workshops and other professional and public events. Contribute to the development of AWC’s science program and progress elements of the program within their professional expertise. Demonstrate strong motivation to make a substantial difference in nature conservation and help develop and promote AWC’s conservation model. Critical Competencies A demonstrated commitment to wildlife conservation, evidenced through work, education and other relevant activities. Advanced knowledge of the conservation of Australian wildlife and ecosystems including the nature and functioning of the Australian biota, major threats to wildlife and their habitats and how these threats can be mitigated. Ideally, experience working with land managers to design conservation management programs. Excellent ecological field and research skills including advanced knowledge of the ecological literature, experimental design and sampling methods, substantial experience in applied vertebrate ecology and field ecology, advanced skills in statistical analysis of ecological data and the use of computer software packages relevant to the position. Leadership: strong leadership and team‑building skills, ability to promote AWC mission, strategies and policies amongst AWC staff, competent in managing staff to ensure key tasks are delivered and AWC culture maintained. Collaboration: good relationship‑building and collaborative skills to perform as part of a team of conservation ecologists, willingness to contribute expertise and learn from colleagues, engaging with diverse stakeholders including AWC Operations managers, partners, Traditional Owners and the broader community. Getting things done: strong planning and organisational skills, demonstrated ability to prioritise and execute many tasks efficiently. Scientific communication: well‑developed capacity to write and review scientific reports and publications, compose funding applications and reports, and communicate science and conservation messages to a general audience. Financial management, paperwork and compliance: deliver projects cost‑effectively, manage financial resources, and ensure contracted obligations are met according to position requirements. Resourcefulness: ability to improvise and ‘problem‑solve’, developing practical solutions with limited resources. Travel and time in the field: willingness to travel away from base and conduct field work as required by the position. Qualifications and Experience A PhD in ecology, conservation science, or a related discipline. Extensive experience in applied ecology, conservation or related work following completion of a PhD. Licenses, Certificates and/or Training A valid manual driver’s license is essential. Competency in driving a 4WD in field conditions is required; training in relevant competencies may be required. PLEASE NOTE We are recruiting for two separate roles in each of the respective regions. Please indicate which one you are applying for in your application. The Central South role is preferably based out of Adelaide or Alice Springs, and the North East role is preferably based in Cairns. Equal Opportunity Statement 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 a range of perspectives, cultures, and voices are respected and recognised as key to the success of AWC. To be eligible for consideration, applicants must also have the right to live and work in Australia. #J-18808-Ljbffr