About the Role
The Senior Land Management Officer will contribute to the effective management of land, wildlife, and infrastructure across Newhaven Wildlife Sanctuary.
They will be responsible for delivering land management programs for conservation, including fire management, weed and feral animal control. The role also encompasses asset and infrastructure maintenance, requiring practical trade skills, knowledge of repairs, and the ability to operate a variety of plant and equipment.
The Senior Land Management Officer requires practical experience in land management programs, project management, and the use of equipment and tools. This role coordinates multiple projects and engages with stakeholders, including scientists, students, volunteers, visitors, neighboring landholders, Indigenous communities, and government agencies.
Key Responsibilities:
* Practical land and asset management skills - experience in fire management, weed and feral animal control, infrastructure repair and maintenance (e.g., fencing, roads, buildings), and operation of plant and equipment (4WDs, ATVs, tractors, generators, pumps, chainsaws, welders, etc.). A broad knowledge of trades (building, mechanical, plumbing, electrical, welding) is desirable.
* Problem-solving and resourcefulness - ability to develop practical solutions with limited resources.
* Teamwork and independence - capacity to work effectively in small, often remote teams, as well as independently.
* Adaptability to remote living - resilience and experience working in rural or semi-remote environments.
* Conservation focus - understanding of and interest in Australian ecology and conservation issues.
* IT skills - ability in using standard business software packages (including Word, email, Excel) is essential.
Additional Requirements:
* Leadership and staff management - ability to lead, coordinate, and support operational staff, volunteers, and contractors, often in remote settings.
* Stakeholder engagement - strong interpersonal skills to build and maintain relationships with scientists, Indigenous communities, landholders, government, students, and volunteers.
* Project and financial management - experience managing multiple projects, budgets, and compliance requirements, including record-keeping and permits.
* Advanced planning and organisation - demonstrated ability to coordinate day-to-day operations alongside larger conservation initiatives.
* Specialist land management skills - bushfire control training/experience and advanced 4WD skills suited to challenging off-road conditions.