Do you want to work to make a difference for NSW?
Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage

• Fulltime Ongoing Ranger (Grade 1-2) opportunity located in Shortland (Newcastle NSW)
• Salary depending on experience ($74,213 - $114,627) plus employer's contribution to superannuation, and 17% loading for working weekends and public holidays

About the role

National Parks and Wildlife Service has a unique opportunity for a Ranger to join the Hunter Central Coast team and contribute towards the conservation of the natural environment, flora, fauna and Aboriginal heritage.

This role is based out of the NPWS Shortland office and will work across a number of reserves within the Lower Hunter Area. The Lower Hunter Area spans 12 different reserves including Glenrock State Conservation Area, Awabakal Nature Reserve, Hunter Wetlands National Park, Sugarloaf State Conservation Area, Werakata National Park and Werakata State Conservation Area.

As a Ranger, you will provide effective management of natural, historic and Aboriginal heritage by undertaking, coordinating and supervising projects, environmental assessments, visitor and stakeholder liaison, and field-based activities including burn planning/wildfire management and law enforcement.

You'll love the diversity, flexibility, and autonomy of this role. Your strong communication skills will assist you in tackling evolving priorities across various estates. Outdoor duties such as pest, weed and fire management, stakeholder engagement and coordination will balance indoor work like completing assessments, project management, and assisting with compiling reports and submissions.

You'll form invaluable professional relationships with Traditional Owners, various commonwealth and state agencies and stakeholders. You'll also create a positive, safe, diverse, and inclusive culture. Together, we achieve more. Our visitors come from all walks of life, and so do we. Our teams bring their full self to the job every day, helping drive innovation for us.

About you
Your expertise in natural land management strategies and/or environmental assessment will be key to your success in this role. As a confident decision-maker with the ability to think on your feet, you will excel in a collaborative environment where teamwork and supporting the growth of others are prioritized. Your passion, energy, and physical fitness will help you thrive in this dynamic, fast-paced role.

Essential requirements

• A degree or equivalent relevant to the field operations of the Agency.
• Current Australian Class C Drivers licence or equivalent and ability to operate four-wheel-drive vehicles.
• Required to obtain certification at the appropriate level prior to undertaking firefighting/incident control duties.
• Willingness to fly in light aircraft and preparedness and ability to be involved in incident management duties including firefighting.

This is a physically active role suited to candidates of all genders who are fit, enjoy working outdoors as part of a team, and are eager to learn and develop the skills and qualifications needed to contribute toward managing some of NSW’s most precious natural places. Applicants must meet the requirements of a specific medical assessment which is inclusive of a clearance to undertake the fitness test for firefighting fitness roles (i.e. moderate level Task-Based Assessment for Firefighters) within the 12-month probationary period, if relevant.

The role holder must obtain certification at the appropriate level prior to undertaking firefighting/incident control duties.

To view the Ranger Progression and Degree Requirements please click here: Ranger Progression

To view the Role Description: Ranger 1/2

Who we are
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) works to protect the state’s environment and heritage. It leads the way on climate change, driving the sustainable transition to a net zero economy, powered by affordable, reliable, and clean energy.

DCCEEW conserves and protects the state’s natural environment. It manages the NSW national park estate, including its rich and diverse biodiversity and Aboriginal cultural heritage for future generations.

DCCEEW also ensures sustainable management of water resources across the state, to support the environment, communities and industry.

We acknowledge the ongoing custodial responsibilities of the Aboriginal peoples of NSW to care for Country and water and are committed to establishing meaningful partnerships with Aboriginal peoples in the management of the environment.

What we can offer you

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service is a great place to expand your career and grow your skills and knowledge.

• Accrued days off in addition to Annual Leave
• Corporate wellbeing programs, including the Fitness Passport
• Learning and development opportunities, including in-house training.

What we do

About NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service
Visit a park
Hunter Central Coast Branch Overview

To Apply

Submit your resume and cover letter expressing your interest and suitability for the role. Ensure that you answer all prescreening questions and include your preferred locations.

Applications close: Sunday 17 August 2025 at 11:55pm

If you require further information about the role please contact Nick Godfrey-Smith on 0482 944 338 or [email protected]

A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary opportunities of the same role or role type that may become available over the next 18 months.

Our goal is to build a workforce that not only represents but also understands and serves the diverse communities of New South Wales. We are committed to making our state a vibrant and inclusive place to live, work, and thrive for everyone. Our workforce represents people of all ages and genders, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disabilities, the LGBTQI+ community, and people from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

Looking for more information or assistance in applying?

• Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace.
• How we encourage and support people with disability
• Information and adjustments for individual needs for the recruitment process and the workplace.

If you require an adjustment for your application process, please contact our Talent Acquisition Team by emailing [email protected] or contacting Kylie Miller on 0459 877 821 (please mention reference number 544099).

If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander use our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for roles or contact our Aboriginal Career pathways team for a yarn.

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