The Broome Bird Observatory (BBO) is a not-for-profit organisation based on the shores of Roebuck Bay, 25km from the town of Broome. Roebuck Bay is a site of global importance for migratory shorebirds.

The BBO aims to promote knowledge and conservation Broome’s birdlife, with particular focus on shorebirds and their habitat around Roebuck Bay. It has an international reputation as a base for research, education and social birdwatching.

Although affiliated with BirdLife Australia, the observatory is financially independent and relies completely on revenue gained from its ecotourism activities: tours, accommodation, camping, educational courses and visitation to the new, state-of-the-art Clive Minton Discovery Centre.

About the Warden(s) positon

The BBO Management Committee seeks a Warden or Wardens to manage the facility for a minimum of 12 months and ideally longer. The position is available for a single person or (preferably) a couple. Unfortunately BBO are unable to sponsor international applicants, so please ensure you have full working rights in Australia prior to application. 

Wardens live and work on site at the BBO. Applicants need to be able to coordinate a small team who undertake a broad range of duties, ensuring that guests experience the best visit possible while research and education goals are met. The role is hands-on and best suited to highly motivated self-starters, perhaps with previous experience in the hospitality and ecotourism industry.

Passion for birds and the environment is essential. Hours can vary according to guest numbers, seasonal periods, and scheduling of tours and courses, and Wardens must maintain a positive and enthusiastic attitude in a challenging work environment with basic living conditions. Extreme heat and humidity can be experienced throughout the working day and evening, particularly in the wet season from November to April. BBO can be isolated from Broome at times by wet weather road closures. Flexibility and initiative will be necessary to cope with challenges as they present themselves.

For the right people this is an exciting and rewarding opportunity to live and work at one of the best shorebird sites in the world. However, please note that the location of the BBO and residential nature of the work means the role is not considered suitable for those with young dependent children.