An exciting opportunity for an experienced Head of Reptiles - Zookeeper to join our team in a permanent full-time capacity at Billabong Wildlife Sanctuary in Townsville.
Passon for reptiles and a desire to expand your knowledge and skill set? Join Billabong Sanctuary's passionate crew delivering one of Australia's most interactive wildlife experiences. We're seeking an experienced Head of Reptiles to manage our diverse collection and mentor a skilled ranger team.
About Us:
Billabong Sanctuary is a privately owned wildlife park with 40 years of operation, Advanced Ecotourism Accreditation, ZAA member and active involvement in endangered species breeding programs. We pride ourselves on a supportive, family-style workplace that encourages innovation and excellence.
The Role:
You'll oversee all reptile operations — husbandry, welfare, breeding, biosecurity, team training, and public presentations — working closely with the Curator and leadership team.
Key Responsibilities:
* Lead daily reptile care, feeding, and enrichment programs
* Manage crocodile feeding and training (4m+ estuarine crocodiles preferred)
* Supervise breeding, incubation, and disease control protocols
* Maintain Species360 and DES records
* Mentor staff in safe reptile handling and presentations
* Management of visitor experiences
* Shared fauna presentations of mammals, birds and reptiles with other keepers.
* Tour presentations to school groups, coach tours and cruise ships.
About You:
* Certificate iii in Captive Animals, tertiary qualifications or equivalent experience.
* 2-3 years' experience in a supervisory role with reptiles.
* Proven in-enclosure crocodile experience
* Strong husbandry background with crocodiles, snakes, lizards, and turtles
* Knowledge of reptile breeding, incubation, and disease prevention
* Experience handling venomous species
* Excellent leadership, communication, and organisational skills
Essential:
* Manual driver's licence, First Aid, Blue Card, Q Fever vaccination
* Fit, reliable, safety-focused, and available across a 7-day roster
* The utmost regard to safety and strict adherence to procedures and policies.
* Excellent public speaking and visitor services skills.
* Computer skills with record keeping on Species 360.
Why Join Us:
* Hands-on work with iconic Australian reptiles – QLD's largest estuarine crocodile in captivity
* Assist with bringing in new reptile-based experiences and species to Billabong
* Supportive small-team culture with a strong conservation focus
To apply:
* Email your current resume and a cover letter to