Assistant Principal Ranger - Asset (Northern Region)
Location: Cairns | Department: Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service and Partnerships
Classification: AO6 | Tenure: Temporary until 30 June 2026 with possibility of extension
Big landscapes. Big projects. Big impact.
Ready to lead infrastructure programs that shape the future of Queensland's wildest and most iconic places? We're looking for a forward-thinking, field-savvy, and results-driven leader to take charge of the Northern Region's Asset—a role where the office is vast, the challenges are real, and the work truly matters.
As the Assistant Principal Ranger - Asset, you won't just manage projects—you'll steer the delivery of one of the most complex and high-impact capital works programs in the state. From rugged tracks deep in the Wet Tropics, to remote park bases on Cape York, to newly declared parks in the Gulf Country—your leadership will keep Queensland's protected area infrastructure safe, sustainable, and ready for the future.
This is more than a job. It's a mission. A chance to leave your mark on landscapes that define Australia's natural and cultural heritage.
Your Mission:
• Lead the delivery of critical capital works—roads, visitor infrastructure, plant and equipment, remote bases, and more
• Oversee strategic asset planning, funding submissions, and future program approvals
• Manage the Northern Region's maintenance program, ensuring infrastructure is reliable and fit for purpose
• Supervise the Heavy Plant Unit—ensuring machinery, people, and operations are safe, smart, and effective
• Deliver technical advice on everything from construction standards to radio networks
• Keep the numbers tight—budget reporting, funding variations, and deferrals across multiple streams
• Make things happen—on time, within scope, and with real-world impact
Why You'll Thrive in This Role:
You'll be working at the leading edge of protected area management—delivering solutions in real time, in real landscapes. This region is massive, diverse, and aweinspiring.
You'll support parks in rainforests, savannahs, coastal zones, and traditional lands jointly managed with First Nations partners.
You'll work closely with Traditional Owners, contractors, technical teams, and senior leaders. One day you might be reviewing blueprints for a new boardwalk: the next, flying out to a remote site to assess progress on a new ranger base.
You'll help make parks safer, more accessible, more functional—and more enduring.
What We're Looking For:
• A proven leader with strong project and asset management experience
• Deep knowledge of infrastructure, construction, and field-based operations
• Sharp planning, budgeting, and reporting skills
• The ability to think strategically and execute practically
• A collaborative mindset and the people skills to guide teams and connect with stakeholders
• A high level of physical fitness and the willingness to travel to remote and rugged areas—by road, track, or light aircraft
What's in It for You?
• Lead one of Queensland's largest and most exciting, protected area programs
• Make a real impact on conservation, culture, and community
• Work across a landscape that includes World Heritage areas, joint-managed parks, and emerging park networks
• Be part of a passionate, purpose-driven team
• Enjoy meaningful, varied, and adventurous work every single day
This isn't a desk-bound job. It's boots on the ground. It's problem-solving under pressure. It's leadership in the places that matter most.
Applications to remain current for 12 months
Job Ad Reference: QLD/664378/25
Closing Date: Wednesday, 22nd October 2025