This is a rare opportunity to lead the management of some of Australia's most spectacular and diverse Outback landscapes.

As District Ranger, you will lead a dedicated team of rangers and operational staff responsible for managing more than 11 million hectares across the Outback District. The district includes the ancient thermal springs of Witjira National Park and the internationally significant mound springs of Wabma Kadarbu Mound Springs Conservation Park, both fed by the Great Artesian Basin; the rolling red dunes of Munga-Thirri–Simpson Desert National Park; the vast salt expanse of Kati Thanda–Lake Eyre National Park; the permanent waterholes of Innamincka Regional Reserve; and the internationally significant Ramsar-listed wetlands of Malkumba–Coongie Lakes National Park. Together, these protected areas encompass landscapes of extraordinary scale, ecological diversity and profound cultural significance.

Reporting to the National Parks and Wildlife Manager, you will provide strategic and operational leadership across some of South Australia's most significant parks, reserves and protected areas.

You will oversee conservation and wildlife management, visitor services, park assets, fire and emergency preparedness, operational programs and the effective use of district resources.

Building strong and trusted relationships will be central to your success. You will work closely with Aboriginal partners, neighbouring pastoral properties, lessees, local communities, volunteers, tourism operators and government agencies to achieve positive outcomes for Country, conservation, visitors and regional communities.

We are seeking an experienced and resilient leader who is passionate about the environment, enjoys the challenges and rewards of working in the Outback, and is motivated to make a lasting difference. You will bring demonstrated experience in land management and team leadership, excellent interpersonal skills, sound judgement and the ability to work effectively with a diverse range of people.

Based in Port Augusta, with the option of a adaptable work arrangement, this genuine vacancy offers an exceptional opportunity to shape the future management of some of South Australia’s most iconic parks and reserves. Few roles provide this combination of leadership, conservation,



partnership and adventure across landscapes of such scale, cultural significance and natural beauty.

What can we offer you!

- Working in an organisation that is contributing to significant environmental outcomes in the great state of South Australia!
- Be part of a fun, collaborative and supportive team.
- Free entry into DEW managed Parks in South Australia.
- Salary Sacrifice Benefits.
- Access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP).Access to our Fitness Passport Program.
- Meaningful and rewarding career.

Contract: Ongoing Essential Criteria (including qualifications):

- Sound knowledge and experience in ecological and nature conservation management principles and practices including water resources, wildlife management, fire management, control of environmental pest plant and animal species, habitat restoration and associated threat abatement across terrestrial, riverine and marine environments.
- Maintains a thorough and up-to-date knowledge of the trends, developments and major issues facing park and wildlife management, understanding the implications and translating these into required action in managing the District.
- Sound understanding and experience in community engagement, visitor services management and developing sustainable tourism opportunities in a park management context, with knowledge of lease management principles and practices.
- High level skills and experience in all aspects of project management including planning, implementation, procurement, contract management and review.
- Sound knowledge of the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972 and Regulations, Wilderness Protection Act 1992 and Marine Parks Act 2007.
- Writes fluently, conveying complex information in a way that the reader will easily understand its message.
- Demonstrated experience in effectively leading and managing a team, demonstrating adeptness in decision making, resource allocation,



and fostering a collaborative environment to achieve organisational goals.
- A current class “C” driver’s licence and willingness and ability to safely operate a 4wd.

Special Conditions:

- Will be required to participate in emergency preparedness, response, recovery, search and rescue and marine mammal stranding activities as directed by government agencies. This may require at times, some out of hour’s work including the participation in an “on-call” roster.
- May be required to work some weekends and public holidays.
- Will be required to undertake a medical and fitness assessment for a Fire Fighting Role Classification as defined in the DEW Fire Management Policy and Procedures.
- May be required to work from any location within the region, or any region or management unit within the state.
- Intra and inter-state travel is required, including extended periods of time away from home, travel in light aircraft and work outside of the normal hours of work.
- The Department for Environment and Water is committed to providing a safe environment to all children and young people who access our services and visit our sites.
- This role requires candidates to provide a valid Working with Children Check which must be renewed every five years before expiry. DEW will cover the cost of renewal.
- This role requires candidates to provide a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check which must be renewed every three years before expiry. DEW will cover the cost of renewal.
- Wearing a company uniform during working hours and/or when representing the department is mandatory.
- You must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or provide evidence that you hold a valid working visa that allows you to work in Australia.
- A successful applicant who is not currently employed by the Department for Environment and Water will be required to have an original photo identification document sighted and provide a valid Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (NCCHC) issued within the last 12 months. This information must be supplied by all applicants who are shortlisted for interview.

Remuneration: ASO7 $116,089 min - $125,490 max p.a. Applications are to be submitted online through I WORK FOR SA. 855160

Applications close: 03/09/2026 11:00 PM

📌 District Ranger Outback (Port Augusta)
🏢 Department for Environment and Water
📍 Port Augusta