About the role
Some careers give you the opportunity to lead people. Others allow you to influence landscapes that will be valued for generations. This role offers both.
As Principal Ranger, Rangelands, you'll play a key leadership role in shaping the future of protected area management across one of Queensland's most unique and expansive regions. Working alongside passionate rangers, technical specialists, Traditional Owners, landholders, local communities, industry representatives and government partners, you'll help drive positive outcomes that balance conservation, visitor experiences, cultural values and operational excellence.
This is not a role for someone who is content with maintaining the status quo. We're looking for a strategic thinker who enjoys solving complex problems, working across competing priorities, and finding practical solutions that deliver long-term benefits for protected areas and the people who care about them.
Success in this position will come from your ability to bring people together. You'll thrive if you genuinely enjoy building relationships, collaborating with others, and creating an environment where people feel valued, supported and empowered to contribute.
We're seeking a leader who can see the bigger picture without losing sight of the practical steps required to achieve it. Someone who can combine sound judgement with curiosity, resilience and a willingness to embrace new ideas. You'll be confident making decisions, comfortable taking ownership, and capable of navigating both strategic and operational challenges in dynamic and sometimes remote environments.
The ideal candidate will bring:
- A collaborative leadership style that fosters teamwork, accountability and high performance.
- Strong relationship-building skills and an ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholder groups.
- Experience leading programs, projects, change initiatives or operational improvements in complex environments.
- Strategic thinking combined with excellent planning and organisational skills.
- A genuine commitment to conservation, stewardship and the protection of Queensland's natural and cultural heritage.
- A leadership approach that values inclusion, respect, cultural capability and positive workplace culture.
Based in Longreach, this role offers the chance to contribute to decisions that will influence the future management of Queensland's rangelands while working with a dedicated team that shares a passion for protecting special places. If you're looking for a rewarding leadership opportunity we encourage you to explore the role further and apply.
Please note that artificial intelligence (AI) tools will be used to support certain stages of this recruitment process, such as administrative screening, shortlisting against looking fors, and writing the selection report. All recruitment decisions will remain subject to human oversight and will be made in accordance with relevant recruitment policies and Directives. If you are not comfortable with your application being processed using AI-assisted tools, please contact the karen.dabinett@detsi.qld.gov.au to discuss available options before submitting your application.
For all other enquiries, please reach out to the contact officer in the role description.
Applications to remain current for 12 months.
Job Ad Reference: QLD/704478/26
Closing Date: Friday, 13 November 2026