Custodian (Ranger) Coordinator in Cairns

Wuthathi Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC (WAC) is the Registered Native Title Body Corporate for the Wuthathi people of North-Eastern Cape York. We manage significant land and sea Country, support cultural and conservation programs, and work towards strengthening Wuthathi community self-determination.

We are seeking a Custodian Coordinator to lead our Custodian (Ranger) Program, working closely with our Management team, Traditional Owners and the wider community to deliver the Wuthathi Aboriginal Corporations RNTBC's key programs. This is an exciting leadership opportunity for someone who is committed to developing people, coordinating meaningful projects and helping Traditional Owners care for Country in accordance with Wuthathi Kincha (Lore).

As the Custodian Coordinator, you will ensure the success of our programs by:

• Leading, supervising and mentoring the Wuthathi Custodian team to deliver annual work plans
• Coordinating cultural and environmental management activities including weed management, fire, cultural heritage, biodiversity monitoring, research and general land management projects
• Planning work schedules, allocating resources and coordinating field operations across multiple projects
• Supporting the professional development, training and performance of Custodians
• Working closely with Traditional Owners, Elders and the Wuthathi Board to ensure activities align with cultural protocols and community priorities
• Building positive partnerships with government agencies, researchers, contractors and other stakeholders
• Managing program administration, reporting, procurement and operational planning
• Promoting a strong safety culture and ensuring compliance with workplace health and safety requirements

Please note: This role is office-based in Cairns but requires significant regular travel to our Custodian Base in northern Cape York. Transport is provided and may be via road or light plane.

Selection Criteria

You will bring:

• Demonstrated experience in land management projects and remote, field-based operations
• Experience in developing, implementing and delivering strong work health and safety / field operations procedures with continuous improvement
• Proven ability to lead, mentor and support teams in both land and sea operations
• Highly organised with solid administrative skills and ability to manage competing priorities
• Experience in supervising and building capacity of a team
• Strong practical knowledge of land and sea management
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to build and maintain respectful, productive relationships
• Capability in coordination of the maintenance of vehicles, vessels, infrastructure, small plant and equipment
• Committed to culturally appropriate practices, and work respectfully and collaboratively with Traditional Owners and external partners
• Class C Driver's licence with 4WD experience and basic vehicle maintenance skills
• Blue Card (or ability to obtain)
• Qualifications in land management, environmental science or related field
• Experience in project management including budgeting and reporting
• Understanding of communities, organisations and country in the northern Cape York region
• Experience in Aboriginal corporations, not-for-profits or grant-funded environments is highly regarded.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants are strongly encouraged to apply.