About the Company
Phillip Island Nature Parks is a leading conservation and sustainable tourism organisation, dedicated to protecting over 1,980 hectares of reserves, wetlands, and woodlands. We take pride in fostering a flexible, inclusive, and supportive workplace culture where your contributions are valued, and your professional growth is encouraged. Join us to be part of a team that shares your passion for environmental and wildlife conservation. Here, you'll discover a rewarding career and a truly great place to work.
About the Role
We are seeking a Plant Ecologist to join our research team and contribute to programs that strengthen the resilience and habitat quality of Phillip Island's (Milawul) vegetation communities. Working across diverse and modified landscapes, you will apply scientific principles and robust ecological approaches to address complex management challenges, including wildlife pressures and climate change impacts.
In this role, you will:
* Design, analyse and interpret ecological datasets to identify trends and their drivers, and inform evidence-based adaptive management.
* Apply statistical, spatial, and modelling methods to investigate vegetation dynamics and assess habitat quality.
* Lead and collaborate on research projects that advance understanding of terrestrial island ecosystems and support adaptive management.
* Work under the guidance of the Research and Reserves Managers to ensure research outcomes inform conservation objectives and on-ground management priorities.
* Provide scientific advice, and train and mentor staff, students, and interns.
* Communicate research outcomes to internal and external stakeholders, including through peer-reviewed publications.
How to Apply:
If you are driven by scientific curiosity and a commitment to ecological restoration, we encourage you to apply. Submit your resume and a cover letter addressing the key selection criteria.
Applications close: Sunday 14 December 2025
Interviews: Early January 2026
For further details, please refer to the Position Description- Plant Ecologist
Key Selection Criteria
* Strong understanding of plant and animal ecology, ecosystem processes, and principles of conservation biology. Familiarity with terrestrial island ecosystems and coastal zones in Victoria is preferred.
* Exceptional quantitative and analytical skills, including proficiency in statistical analysis and modelling.
* Experience with programming languages such as R or Python is highly desirable.
* Demonstrated ability to work effectively in field conditions, including remote or rugged environments.
* Experience with field data collection methods, such as vegetation surveys, and habitat assessments, is essential.
* Proficiency in GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS) and spatial analysis techniques. Experience with remote sensing data and landscape modelling is desirable.
* Experience engaging with local communities and effectively communicating findings to non-specialist audiences.
* Prior experience collaborating with state and federal agencies, environmental consulting firms, or non-governmental organisations involved in natural resource management and conservation.
* Demonstrated experience in publishing research focusing on terrestrial ecology and related fields.
* Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to convey complex scientific concepts clearly and effectively.
* Experience in delivering presentations and interacting with diverse audiences is essential.
To commence your journey with us, the following is required:
* • A Ph.D. degree or equivalent experience in Botany, Ecology, Environmental Science, Biology, or a related field.
• First Aid Level II and CPR
• Working with Children Check
• Drivers' Licence