Department for Environment and Water
Biodiversity & Nature Economy
Salary: $73,533 – $89,764 pa. + super
Job status: Long Term Contract for up to 2 years
Job reference:

About the Role

This role provides an exciting opportunity to join a dedicated team responsible for implementing the Bounceback Program – a multi-region threat abatement and species conservation project in South Australia’s arid and semi-arid rangelands. The Bounceback Field Ecologist will provide project support and basic ecological knowledge to implement Bounceback Program projects and activities, primarily on National Parks across the Gawler Ranges, Flinders Ranges, and Olary Ranges.

The Field Ecologist assists the Bounceback team with activities such as species surveys and monitoring, feral animal control, data collation and management and report preparation. The role works with key partners including Ranger staff, volunteers, contractors, neighbours and Aboriginal communities to maximise awareness, delivery capacity and achievements of Bounceback projects. Field work in remote locations will be required.

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.
- Hybrid working model with flexible working options including work from home available to promote work life balance.
- Free entry into DEW managed Parks in South Australia.
- Salary Sacrifice Advantages.
- Access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
- Access to our Fitness Passport Program.
- Meaningful and rewarding career.

Essential Criteria (including qualifications):

- A university degree in environment, conservation or a related NRM discipline.
- Knowledge of South Australian fauna and flora species (including weed species) and their ecology.
- Knowledge of fauna and flora ecological survey methods and techniques.
- Experience in collating, documenting and managing technical data and information.




- Demonstrates good communication skills (verbal and written) in an applied science and/or NRM setting.
- Is thorough in checking work to ensure alignment with the expected standards and protocols of the organisation.
- Ability to work effectively and maintain relationships with a team and a range of stakeholders.
- Demonstrates ability to work alone and be self-reliant.
- A current Class C driver’s licence.
- Willingness and ability to safely operate a 4WD.
- A current First Aid Certificate.

Special Conditions:

- May be required to participate in emergency preparedness, response and recovery activities required by government agencies.
- 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.
- 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.
- Inter and intrastate and remote area travel is required, including travel in light aircraft.
- Will be required to undertake intra or interstate travel, regular overnight absences, and work outside of the normal hours of work.

Enquiries and Applications to:

Matthew Heard, Coordinator, Bounceback Program

The Department for Environment and Water is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage applications from people with diverse backgrounds including all ages and gender identities, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, people with disability, culturally and linguistically diverse and LGBTIQA+.

Applications close: Wednesday 9 September 2026 at 11:00 PM.

Attachments:

- PO1 P59551 Field Ecologist – RD.pdf
- Pre-Employment-Declaration_ .pdf

Flexibility Statement

The South Australian public sector promotes diversity and flexible ways of working including part-time. Applicants are encouraged to discuss the flexible working arrangements for this role.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

📌 Field Ecologist – Department for Environment and Water – Port Augusta, SA
🏢 Department for Environment and Water
📍 Port Augusta