OO5 Ranger (Fire Operations) in Mackay

Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation QLD – Mackay QLD

OO5 Ranger (Fire Operations)
Are you passionate about fire management, conservation and operational leadership?
Join the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service Central Region Fire Team and play a key role in delivering fire management outcomes across some of Queensland's most significant protected areas.

As a Ranger (Fire Operations), you will contribute to the delivery of planned burning programs, bushfire response operations, emergency management activities and broader land management outcomes across Central Region. The role supports a strategic and consistent approach to fire management while working closely with operational rangers, fire specialists and key stakeholders.

You will work collaboratively with Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service & Partnerships (QPWS&P), the Queensland Fire Department, First Nations peoples, neighbouring landholders and partner agencies to deliver safe and effective fire management outcomes.

This role offers a diverse mix of field-based and office-based responsibilities. Duties may include:

• Planning and implementing planned burning and wildfire management activities.
• Participating in bushfire response, incident management and emergency operations.
• Coordinating and leading operational projects and field activities.
• Assisting with fire planning, operational preparedness and resource management.
• Maintaining fire management records, reporting and operational documentation.
• Supporting training, exercises and capability development activities.
• Building productive relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Contributing to natural and cultural resource management outcomes across protected areas.
• Operating and maintaining specialised plant, equipment and vehicles.
• Supporting disaster response and recovery operations as required.

What we're looking for:

We are seeking individuals who are passionate about conservation, fire management and operational excellence. You will thrive in dynamic environments, enjoy working both independently and as part of a team, and demonstrate strong judgement, initiative and professionalism.

To succeed in this role, you'll need:

• Demonstrated experience in fire management, bushfire operations or emergency response.
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• The ability to coordinate competing priorities and perform effectively under pressure.
• Sound planning, organisational and problem-solving skills.
• Experience leading or supervising operational activities and field-based work programs.
• A commitment to workplace health and safety and risk management principles.
• Strong computer, administrative and reporting skills.
• Knowledge of natural resource management and conservation practices.

Requirements:

• A current unrestricted manual driver's licence is essential.
• Qualifications in conservation and ecosystem management, fire management, emergency management or a related discipline will be highly regarded.
• You must be willing and able to travel regularly, including extended deployments, overnight stays and after-hours work.
• A reasonable level of fitness is required to undertake field-based and emergency response activities.
• Successful applicants may be required to participate in bushfire response, incident management, disaster response and recovery operations.

This position is based in Central Region and Location is negotiable – Mackay, Townsville or Rockhampton preferred.

Accommodation is not provided.

Job Ad Reference: QLD/704121/26

Closing Date: Thursday, 5 November 2026