Narla is seeking expression of interests for a casual project-based ecologist role commencing immediately.

About The Role

Narla is currently undertaking Project Ecologist work for a range of small and large projects across NSW. The largest of these projects is the Snowy Mountains Hydro-electric Scheme, a Commonwealth owned infrastructure project located in Kosciuszko National Park. On this project you will have the opportunity to see and handle a range of alpine fauna and flora, many of which are listed as threatened in NSW. You will be required to work away from Sydney for approx. 15 days at a time (consecutive days), and for 10-12-hour work days with limited supervision. Your key responsibilities will be:

• Conducting pre clearing surveys in subalpine environments involving:
  • Identification of habitat features (tree hollows, soaks, woody debris, nests, burrows, decorticating bark etc.).
  • Identification of project specific weeds (not necessarily standard priority weeds); and
  • Identification of threatened flora, fauna and sensitive areas.
• Clearing supervision involving:
  • Fauna handling and relocation; and
  • Rapid 24hr pre-clearing inspections.
• Validation of prior threatened finds (from the Environmental Impact Statement).
• Weed treatment - Ox-eye Daisy with a backpack.

Food and accommodation will be provided onsite.

We would also need you on our more local jobs (around Sydney), which can include targeted surveys for threatened plants and animals, nestbox installation and monitoring, and some ecological approvals work (e.g. impact assessments).

About You

You will need to be mature and hard-working with a tertiary degree in a Science discipline. The role is best suited to someone that is independent given there are limited communication networks with often the only way to keep in touch with family and friends via WhatsApp/ Messenger. You must:

• Have your C class drivers' licence and experience driving off-road (4WD).
• Be willing to undertake 4WD training (specific for the role).
• Be able to pass a medical and drug & alcohol test prior to commencement.
• Be able to pass random drug & alcohol tests whilst onsite.
• Be willing to work long days.
• Be willing to handle chemicals (e.g. herbicide).
• Be willing to undertake venomous snake handling training and handle venomous snakes in the field.

General Skills

Plant identification skills and attention to detail are highly desirable. You will be required to distinguish between threatened and non-threatened species, and identify weed species onsite. Good communication skills and a professional demeanor are paramount for this project.