Location: Derby, WA
Employment Type: Fulltime (or parttime by agreement)
Term: Fixed Term – 2 years (subject to funding)
Overview
The Junior Ranger Program Coordinator plans and delivers day-to-day Junior Ranger activities with partner schools in the Derby area. The role establishes and maintains a culturally appropriate, school-based program grounded in Nyikina and Mangala knowledge, linking Australian Curriculum learning with on-Country experiences. The Coordinator focuses on student engagement, learning outcomes, safety and logistics, while working closely with the Women and Men Ranger teams, families and educators.
About Walalakoo Aboriginal Corporation
The Nyikina Mangala and Boorroola Moorrool Moorrool – Part A (BMM) Native Title Determination covers an area of 27,085 square kilometres from the tidal waters of Moorrool Moorrool (King Sound), along the Mardoowarra (Fitzroy River) and reaches into the Great Sandy Desert. Nyikina Mangala people have been looking after their traditional lands and sea country for many thousands of years. Since bookarraarra (Dreamtime), we've known how to look after Country, we've known the right names for our places and we've passed Woonyoomboo's laws along from generation to generation for thousands of years.
Objectives of the Position
Deliver a structured calendar of school-based sessions, camps and excursions that align with the Healthy Country Plan and school timetables.
* Support attendance, attainment and successful transitions for First Nations students through culturally grounded learning.
* Maintain accurate records, including Personal Learning Plans (PLPs), attendance data and activity reports.
* Engage families, Elders and Traditional Owners in program delivery.
* Ensure safe operations, asset care and compliance with WAC policies and school requirements.
* Collaborate with the Growth & Partnerships Officer on resources, partnerships and program improvement (without duplicating day-to-day delivery).
Tasks & Key Responsibilities
* Plan and deliver weekly JRP lessons, incursions, excursions and on-Country trips with partner schools.
* Develop individual PLPs for each participating student and track progress in consultation with teachers and families.
* Coordinate logistics, risk assessments, permissions and transport for activities; run safety briefings and toolbox meetings.
* Supervise and coordinate casual Cultural Workers/Traditional Owners engaged in JRP sessions.
* Prepare monthly activity reports (participation, activities, outcomes) and term summaries for schools and WAC.
* Maintain equipment, learning resources and vehicles used for JRP activities.
* Liaise with Men and Women Ranger teams to integrate cultural knowledge and land management activities into lessons.
* Champion student wellbeing, behaviour support and culturally safe learning environments.
* Support Junior Rangers to explore pathways (Senior Secondary subjects, VET) in consultation with the Growth & Partnerships Officer and schools.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
* Minimum 15 Aboriginal students participating within first 12 months; participation targets agreed annually with schools.
* Delivery of at least 20 structured school-based activities and 8 camps/excursions per year.
* 100% of participating students with current PLPs; term progress updates provided to schools/families.
* Monthly activity reports submitted on time (100% compliance) with attendance/engagement data.
* All activities delivered in accordance with approved risk assessments and WAC safety procedures; zero critical incidents.
* Oversee care, maintenance and safe keeping of vehicles, vessels, equipment and other assets.
Selection Criteria
Essential:
* Experience working with Aboriginal children, young people, families and communities, preferably in the Kimberley.
* Understanding of Aboriginal culture and ability to work respectfully with Traditional Owners and Elders.
* Experience delivering school-based or youth programs, preferably including on-Country learning.
* Strong communication, classroom facilitation, behaviour support and relationship-building skills.
* Organisational skills in logistics, planning, record-keeping and reporting.
* Competence with Microsoft 365 and digital record systems.
* Current Working With Children Check and National Police Clearance.
* Current manual driver's licence; 4WD capability or willingness to train.
Desirable:
* Qualifications in education, youth work, conservation/land management or community services.
* Knowledge of Nyikina and Mangala Country and community priorities.
* Experience developing curriculum-linked resources and field learning materials.
To apply, please provide a cover letter addressing the Selection Criteria and a current resume or CV. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Date close: 11th March 2026