Join us in our mission to promote biodiversity, conserve our valuable ecosystems, and provide engaging attractions that connect people with nature.
THIS IS A 24-MONTH FIXED-TERM, FULL-TIME POSITION
(WITH THE POSSIBILITY OF EXTENSION OR PERMANENCY)
THIS POSITION IS BASED IN KENSINGTON, BUNBURY, WOODVALE OR ALTERNATIVE LOCATIONS MAY BE CONSIDERED BY NEGOTIATION
APPLICATIONS FOR THIS POSITION CLOSE AT
MIDDAY ON TUESDAY, 5 MAY 2026
Ecosystem Health Branch provides the framework for efficient and effective management of invasive species including plant diseases, weeds and pest animals to help conserve natural values on lands managed by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions' (DBCA) Parks and Wildlife Service. The branch is responsible for the coordination of the Western Shield program, Cane Toad Strategy and Vegetation Health Service diagnostic laboratory as well as providing policy support for the implementation of the Forest Management Plan.
We currently have an opportunity for a Western Shield Ecologist to join our team.
Under the general direction of the Western Shield Program Leader, this position:
- Identifies with the broader Western Shield team and district staff knowledge gaps in invasive animal management and collaborates with scientists internal and external to the agency to codesign scientific research programs to inform and improve the management of invasive animals including but not limited to red foxes, feral cats, cane toads, rabbits, feral deer and feral pigs.
- Provides expert scientific advice and effectively translates results of research to inform operational invasive animal management programs.
- Analyses and reports on data and trends in target native fauna distribution and abundance and introduced animals and provides advice and recommendations.
- Provides support, advice and assistance to agency staff on effective monitoring tools and techniques relevant to the Western Shield program including native fauna and invasive animal monitoring programs.
At the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA), we have adopted Leadership Expectations which provides a common understanding of the mindsets and expected behaviours required of all our employees and the public sector. In this role, you will demonstrate Personal Leadership to help drive positive change.
Selection Criteria
Applicants should address the following four (4) criteria in a written application. These should be addressed in no more than four (4) pages in total.
- Demonstrated ability to think critically, organise and prioritise issues and operations and formulate appropriate recommendations; based on applying the principles of research and problem solving.
- Strong skills and ability to work effectively as an autonomous individual and as part of a team, demonstrating initiative, integrity, leadership, negotiation and facilitation skills.
- Demonstrated skills in database use (interrogation and management), statistical analysis and use of associated software to generate reports and public information and communication pieces.
- Demonstrated knowledge of experimental design and data interpretation to inform effective conservation management programs.
About Us
DBCA, one of Western Australia's largest state government agencies, providing exciting and challenging career opportunities in biodiversity conservation and park and natural resource management. We employ people with world-class scientific, policy, land and marine management, visitor services, research and educational skills.
For more information on what we do, our recruitment process, and why working at DBCA is an attractive proposition, please visit our website.
Benefits of working with us
In addition to the attractive salary and opportunities to contribute to biodiversity and environmental conservation initiatives, the department offers incentives including:
- Flexible working arrangements.
- 12% superannuation, full employer contribution and salary packaging options.
- 4 weeks annual leave with 17.5% loading paid as additional pay every December.
- 3 days additional public sector holidays each year.
- Cultural leave for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff.
- Access to study, bereavement, foster caring and parental leave.
- A confidential employee assistant program (EAP) for you and your family, including psychology and counselling services.
- An annual National Park Entry Pass.
- Well-established learning and development programs.
- Free staff parking.
How to apply:
All applications are to be submitted online. Select 'Apply for job', located at either the top or the bottom of the screen, and follow the instructions; you will need to provide a:
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a statement addressing the above requested criteria (in no more than four (4) pages.
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current CV, including the details of two referees with one being a recent or current manager/supervisor.
For further job-related information: contact Corrin Everitt on 0400 693 807 or for further information about the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, visit https://www.dbca.wa.gov.au/.
We have a detailed Job Application Kit to provide information about us, the value of the department and practical guidance on the process for you. Please ensure you have saved your documents in MS Word (.docx files only) or PDF format and have allowed plenty of time to submit your application, as late, emailed and proforma applications will not be accepted.
Prior to commencement, the successful applicant will need to possess or obtain:
- A current (issue date not older than 6 months) and satisfactory National Police Check.
- A current Western Australian "C" class drivers licence.
For the full role description, detailed responsibilities and a full list of selection criteria, please refer to the Job Description link below. The documents linked to this advertisement are available in alternative formats upon request.
Eligibility: To be eligible for permanent appointment, it is essential to have Australian citizenship, New Zealand citizenship or Australian permanent residency status. To be eligible for contract employment, it is essential to have a visa with entitlement to live and work in Australia for the term of the contract.
A search for additional applicants may be conducted for this position where necessary to provide a more diverse and/or competitive field.
Substantive Equality Statement
DBCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages Indigenous Australians, young people, people with disabilities, people from culturally diverse backgrounds and women to apply for positions within our agency. People with disability will be provided with reasonable adjustments in our recruitment processes and in the workplace. The Department also promotes flexible working arrangements.
Applicants with a disability who require adjustments in the recruitment process, including an alternative to applying online, can contact the Senior Recruitment Officer on (08) 9219 9879 or recruitment@dbca.wa.gov.au. Do not send job applications to this email; they will not be accepted.
If you are an Aboriginal person who would like assistance with your application, please contact Jobs and Skills WA on 13 64 64.
Similar appointments may be made from this process in locations throughout Western Australia within a 12-month period to positions that may be permanent or contract, including contract appointments with the possibility of subsequent permanency.
