We Are:

Terrain NRM is a community-driven, independent, not for profit environmental stewardship organisation. We think innovatively and act collaboratively, combining the latest science with local knowledge to develop sustainable solutions to increase the resilience of the rainforests, reefs, landscapes and local communities of Australia’s Wet Tropics region.

You Are:

This position provides operational leadership and management for the efficient, effective and integrated delivery of various programs and projects that will collectively improve the condition of natural resources, increase capacity within the region to undertake natural resource management initiatives; and deliver other co-benefits e.g. biodiversity, soil health, climate resilience and market-based bio/climate schemes and outcomes.

Capabilities:

- Lead planning and coordination of programs within scope, budget, and quality standards, aligning with funders’ and stakeholders’ expectations.
- Monitor program performance against key objectives and ensure timely and accurate reporting to management, funders and key stakeholders in alignment with approved project budgets, work plans and contractual requirements.
- Identify potential risks and implement mitigation strategies to proactively manage risks that could impact the success of the program.
- Lead and coordinate activities across various projects, managing project managers and teams to ensure effective collaboration and communication including resolving conflicts and ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently.
- Ensure timely and quality data collection is implemented across the program to track project impact and effectiveness.
- Support, develop, and lead direct reports and a team of project delivery staff.





Skills and Knowledge:

- Commercially astute, with a clear focus on quality, productivity, financial values and service outcomes
- Ability to lead a multidisciplinary team of project staff
- Provide technical leadership to ensure effective program planning and execution
- Commitment to continuous learning and self-service practices
- Tertiary qualifications in resources/environmental science or a related field
- Experience in natural resources management or not-for-profit sector
- Technical knowledge of government procurement processes

What’s next:

This role is based in the Wet Tropics region, with flexibility to work from one of Terrain’s offices, with hybrid work opportunities for the right person. Travel within the region will be required to support program and stakeholder engagement.

To be considered, please submit your resume, and a maximum 3-page letter addressing what excites you about the position and some key points on how you can successfully deliver on the key responsibilities. We really enjoy examples of success and learnings you’ve had within specific roles.

We’re always happy to meet or talk to prospective candidates and answer questions about the role. Feel free to pop into the office and say hello if you’re in the area or give the HR Team a call. While this won’t influence the recruitment outcome, it can give you a better feel for our culture and working setting. We’re driven to find the right person, so applications close on 18/08/2026 – or sooner if the ideal candidate is found

To find out more about the role and view the Position Description and Role Portfolio, please visit our website terrain.org.au or: https://terrain.org.au/about-us/employment/

📌 PROGRAM LEADER: Green Landscapes (Cairns)
🏢 Terrain Natural Resource Management
📍 Cairns