Lead with Purpose – Empower Wuthathi Country, Culture & Community

Wuthathi Aboriginal Corporation (WAC) is seeking a visionary and dynamic Land Operations Manager to lead our growing organisation. Reporting directly to the General manager, this role will lead the implementation of the IPA Plan and manage funding and reporting of Wuthathi Land management.

About Wuthathi Aboriginal Corporation

WAC is the Registered Native Title Body Corporate holding interests for the Wuthathi people across 1,182 sq km of land and 8,072 sq km of sea Country in north-eastern Cape York Peninsula and adjacent marine areas. With an office in Cairns and a growing Ranger Base at Shelburne Bay, WAC is a vibrant, community-driven organisation. Our vision is:

“To control our destiny as our elders before us; in caring for Wuthathi country, culture and community.”

Key Responsibilities

Lead implementation of the IPA Plan and ensure it guides all land and sea management activities.

Manage funding and reporting related to IPA and ranger operations, in collaboration with the CEO and Finance Manager.

Develop and maintain the Wuthathi Database to support monitoring, evaluation, and cultural information management.

Plan and oversee environmental activities such as fire management, weed and pest control, and biodiversity monitoring.

Protect cultural heritage sites by working with Elders and integrating traditional knowledge into land practices.

Engage community and stakeholders to align activities with community priorities and build partnerships.

Manage and develop ranger staff, including training, supervision, and ensuring workplace health and safety compliance.

Coordinate day-to-day operations of the base, including resource allocation, vehicle fleet management, and internal support.

What You’ll Bring

Strong leadership experience in land or environmental management, particularly within Indigenous or remote community contexts.

Understanding of Indigenous Protected Areas (IPA), cultural protocols, and the integration of traditional ecological knowledge.

Experience managing teams, including mentoring, training, and overseeing workplace safety and daily operations.

Excellent project management skills, including budgeting, reporting, and planning.

Ability to build partnerships with a wide range of stakeholders including Traditional Owners, funders, scientists, and government agencies.

Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, with experience in presenting reports and engaging diverse audiences.

Proficiency with data management tools, mapping technologies (e.g. ESS, Fulcrum), and reporting systems.

Commitment to community engagement and a collaborative, culturally respectful approach to working with Aboriginal people.

Selection Criteria.

Essential

Demonstrated experience in land and sea management, including planning, delivery, and monitoring of environmental activities.

Strong leadership skills with experience in managing and mentoring teams, particularly in remote settings.

Proven ability to develop and manage budgets, work plans, and reports.

Experience in engaging with Indigenous communities and integrating traditional knowledge into land management practices.

Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to liaise effectively with a range of stakeholders.

Knowledge of WH&S standards and experience in implementing safety protocols

Desirable

Tertiary qualifications in environmental science, land management, or a related field.

Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and data management tools such as ESS and Fulcrum.

Understanding of the cultural significance of Wuthathi land and the ability to work respectfully within this context.

Mandatory Requirements

Eligibility to obtain a Blue Card for working with children.

Manual driver’s licence.

Willingness to travel and work flexible hours, including weekends when required.

Why Join Us?

Lead a respected First Nations organisation with significant influence in land and sea management.

Work alongside passionate Elders and staff dedicated to cultural restoration and community development.

Enjoy a dynamic work environment combining office and on-Country operations.

Salary packaging to maximise your income

Opportunities for professional growth and cultural immersion.

How to Apply

Submit your CV, a cover letter, and a response to the selection criteria via seek

Wuthathi and First Nations people are strongly encouraged to apply.
This position is not identified, and all applicants will be assessed against the selection criteria.

This role is:

Subject to a six (6) month probationary period and annual performance reviews.

Dependent on ongoing funding and organisational capacity.