Introduction About AWC: AWC is a pragmatic global conservation leader, restoring landscapes and providing hope for Australian wildlife. Guided by science, AWC delivers measurable conservation impacts at scale to secure the future of our most endangered species. At AWC we are inspired by the unparalleled richness of Australia’s wildlife and we are united by our determination to protect its unique animals and landscapes. It is our mission to effectively conserve all Australian wildlife and habitats and our vision is for a world where Australia’s biodiversity is valued and effectively conserved by an engaged community. The delivery of AWC’s mission is highly reliant on all AWC working collaboratively with each other as a cohesive, engaged, collaborative, high performing group guided by strong, effective leaders. AWC’s work is guided by the following values. At AWC, we are: Accountable – taking ownership of our actions and outcomes Informed – working together to acquire and apply evidence, knowledge and experience Respectful – demonstrating care, recognition and integrity Dedicated – committed to delivering effective outcomes, with resilience and tenacity Innovative – applying creative thinking for effective solutions Sustainable – delivering long-term financial and ecological viability. About the role: Australian Wildlife Conservancy is looking to recruit a PhD-qualified ecologist with post-graduate experience in vertebrate ecology and a strong interest in applied conservation ecology to join our science team. This is a senior position within AWC’s South East Science team. Reporting to the Regional Ecologist (South East), the position will be responsible for the implementation of AWC’s science program at one or more AWC properties and partnership sites in the region such as Waulinbakh and Wandiyali. This includes leading key programs related to ecological monitoring, the reintroduction of locally-extinct species, and ecological research. The role has a significant intellectual requirement. The position will manage a small team of skilled ecologists and will also work closely with AWC’s operational staff in scoping the works program. This job would suit a vertebrate ecologist motivated to take a leading role in major conservation projects, including projects involving external partners and stakeholders. The successful conduct of the role is expected to result in tangible improvements to the conservation of fauna and flora in south-east Australia. Critical competencies: Conservation knowledge: Advanced understanding of Australian wildlife and ecosystems, including key threats and how to mitigate them. Ideally, you’ll have experience working with land managers to design and implement applied conservation strategies (e.g., for fire, feral animal, and weed management). Ecological expertise: Excellent field and research skills, including strong knowledge of ecological literature, experimental design, vertebrate ecology, sampling methods, and statistical analysis using relevant software. Commitment to conservation: A strong personal drive to make a positive difference to the conservation of Australian wildlife. Planning and delivery: Well-developed planning, organisational, and time management skills with the ability to prioritise tasks and deliver results effectively. Leadership: Strong leadership and team-building capabilities, with experience managing staff and volunteers, particularly in remote field environments. Collaboration and teamwork: A desire to work as part of a high-performing team of conservation ecologists, contributing your strengths and learning from others. You’ll have excellent relationship-building skills and a willingness to learn from the experience and world-view of a diverse range of stakeholders, including AWC Operations Managers, project partners, Traditional Owners, and the broader community. Scientific communication: Well-developed skills in writing and reviewing scientific reports and publications, composing funding proposals, and clearly communicating science and conservation outcomes to a variety of audiences. Project and financial management: Ability to manage projects in a cost-effective and compliant manner, including oversight of budgets, contracts, and reporting. Practicality and problem-solving: A resourceful and solutions-focused approach with the ability to adapt, improvise, and develop practical solutions using available resources. Willingness to travel: Flexibility to travel as needed to fulfil fieldwork and other responsibilities across multiple locations. Qualifications/Experience: A PhD in ecology or a related discipline, or equivalent (e.g., a relevant higher degree and substantial professional experience in conservation). Appointment to Wildlife Ecologist will require, as a minimum, a PhD and experience in vertebrate ecology. Appointment to Senior Wildlife Ecologist will require, in addition, 10 or more years postgraduate experience in a relevant field, plus aptitude/ capacity for managing programs and staff at a sub-regional level. Licenses, Certificates and/or Training: Valid Australian driver’s licence. You will need to be able to drive a manual 4WD vehicle in difficult conditions. Training in relevant competencies may be required. National Police Clearance To view the detailed position description for this role, click here: Wildlife Ecologist / Senior Wildlife Ecologist | South East PLEASE NOTE: This is a permanent full-time position. The position is based at a location to be agreed with the successful candidate, with substantial time in the field at AWC properties and other sites. Join our Journey: Take the leap and start your next adventure with the AWC! AWC reserves the right to start screening applicants and interviewing throughout the recruitment process. Initial enquiries: employment@australianwildlife.org Applications: To submit an application, click ‘Apply’ and follow the prompts to complete an online application form. Your application must include CV and covering letter, briefly addressing the critical competencies listed in the detailed job description attachment. Please note: Applicants must be an Australian citizen/permanent resident or have a suitable visa in place in order to apply. Sponsorship is not available. Applicants will undergo relevant pre-employment checks, which may include a national police clearance, online medical and a values-based assessment. If you apply for this role, AWC will include you in its ongoing updates and communications about its events, activities and fundraising initiatives. You may opt out of these communications at any time. Any application submitted to AWC will be handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy, available at www.australianwildlife.org/privacy-policy. By providing us with your contact details, you consent to receive communications and direct educational material will remain current until you advise us otherwise. AWC is a welcoming and inclusive organisation that invites individuals from diverse backgrounds, such as those who identify as First Nations and Torres Strait Islander, individuals with disabilities, the LGBTIQA community, neurodivergent individuals, and those from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds, to apply for the opportunity. AWC values and is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable to be themselves, and where a range of perspectives, cultures, and voices are respected and recognised as a key part to the success of AWC. To be eligible for consideration, applicants must also have the right to live and work in Australia.