About The Opportunity
We have an exciting opportunity to join the Parks and Open Spaces Team as a
Casual Natural Resource Management (NRM) Field Officer
. Our Natural Resources Team is committed to protecting, restoring, and enhancing the ecological health of our region, from the hinterland to the coastline.
As a Casual NRM Field Officer, you will assist with on-ground environmental works, weed management programs, and ecological restoration activities across Council-managed land. This role provides flexibility while contributing to meaningful projects that benefit the community and our environment.
On a Typical Day, You Will
* Provide field notes from inspections of contracted works
* Inspect and report on Asset Protection Zones (APZs) and Strategic Fire Advantage Zones (SFAZs)
* Assist with monitoring activities for threatened fauna species
* Support environmental volunteer groups with ecological restoration works
* Undertake intensive weed management activities, including the regular and safe use of herbicides and other chemicals on Council-owned or managed land
* Collect and map weed infestations using digital systems to support biosecurity programs
To Be Successful In This Role, You Must Be
* Qualified with a Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management (or have equivalent experience in land management)
* Hold a current Class C Driver Licence and AQF3 Chemical Licence
* Experienced in natural resource management, including flora and fauna identification
* Confident in using and maintaining small plant and equipment
* Experienced with Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and knowledgeable about locally occurring weeds
* Demonstrate sound literacy, numeracy, and communication skills
* Understand and comply with the obligations under the Work Health and Safety Act
* Able to work collaboratively within a team and positively engage with community volunteers
Remuneration And Benefits
Employment type: Casual
Salary (exclusive of super): Casual hourly rate of $41.95 per hour (inclusive of the 25% casual loading)
Benefits
* PPE provided
* Flexible work arrangements - hybrid working and flexi-time
* Discounted gym membership through membership to Fitness Passport
* Career development opportunities
* Annual salary increase as per the Local Government (State) Award 2023 plus annual salary review
* Long service leave after 5 years
* Generous employee assistance program
* Salary packaging options available through Salary Packaging Australia and Maxxia
* Recognition through our annual awards ceremony celebrating and rewarding staff achievements
About Councils Natural Resources Team
The Natural Resources Team provides technical services to the community in regard to management of the natural environment extending from hinterland to the coastline in the Port Macquarie Hastings Local Government Area. We do so through the provision of invasive weed management, ecological restoration, bushfire risk mitigation and hazard management works, ecological advice on internal and external development applications and coast, estuary and flood management. Works include on-ground improvements and also policy and planning projects. The team works with both internal and external stakeholders to achieve the goals as set by the community.
Questions?
If you would like to know more about this opportunity or have any questions about the role, please contact
Trent Arnold, Open Spaces Operations Manager on
Interested in Applying?
Please complete the application form below and answer the questions which relate to the essential and desirable criteria within the selection criteria, then upload a copy of your resume and cover letter.
You will find the position description & selection criteria when you apply for the role.
You may find it helpful to write your response to the questions in a word document then copy/paste this into the application form once you are ready to submit your application.
Applications Close: 25 January 2026 at 11:30pm
Notes
Suitable candidates may be placed on a talent pool or eligibility list for future identical, or similar positions for a period of 12 months.
Please upload documents in PDF format.
We often ask our preferred applicants to complete pre-employment checks. This may include: Reference Checks; National Criminal Police Check; Medical Assessment; Qualification Verification; Working with Children Check Verification.
PMHC's recruitment notification process is primarily via system generated emails. Please ensure your email is correct before submitting an application to avoid missing crucial updates and outcomes. Email communication notifications are used for but not limited to: application received, interview booking tools, confirmation of interview, request for references/more information, delay notifications, testing/assessments (aptitude/psychometric/industry specific) and application outcomes (unsuccessful before or after interview).
Please regularly check your 'junk mail' or ensure our email address is set to 'trustworthy'.
Port Macquarie Hastings Council adheres to the principles of a child safe organisation and is committed to the care and protection of all children and young people.