About your new role

We are seeking a dynamic and passionate leader to head our Priority Species Conservation Team within the Biodiversity Policy and Conservation Unit. As the Priority Species Conservation Leader, you will guide a dedicated team of conservation professionals focused on delivering impactful initiatives for the protection of the Gold Coast’s unique biodiversity. 

This leadership role includes managing the City’s Priority Species Conservation Program, including the Koala Conservation Plan and the Northern Koala Taskforce, while collaborating with key stakeholders such as the State Government, wildlife rehabilitation organisations, veterinary hospitals, and universities. You will drive the development and implementation of innovative conservation programs that directly benefit local wildlife and contribute to national efforts to protect endangered species. 

Key responsibilities: 

• Contribute to a positive team environment in accordance with City workplace policies and practices, work health and safety and corporate values. 
• Manage a team of technical staff to deliver Council’s strategic policy and conservation priorities. 
• Critically analyse conservation issues and identify solutions within a strategic framework. 
• Maintain effective stakeholder relationships to drive environmental outcomes. 
• Manage conservation projects in-line with program priorities, budget, and time expectations. 

We're looking for people who have:

• You have a minimum of 10 years’ experience in the environmental industry, with a minimum of five years’ experience leading teams (ideally technical and/or scientific) to achieve strategic outcomes (mandatory). 
• You have tertiary qualifications in environmental science, biology, ecology, policy, or similar fields (mandatory). 
• You have good communication and interpersonal skills and ideally have experience in working with a range of stakeholders to deliver outcomes.  
• You have knowledge of conservation frameworks and State / Commonwealth policies and legislation.  
•  You are motivated to contribute to the City’s conservation efforts and want to join a highly dynamic, positive and innovative work environment. 

Be part of shaping the Gold Coast's future

The Gold Coast is inspired by lifestyle and driven by opportunity. We are the second largest Council in Australia.

We care about being the most flexible government organisation in Australia. We have a range of benefits to help you create the right balance:

• 9-day fortnight
• Flexible work arrangements to suit your lifestyle, including hybrid/work from home options, flexible working hours and locations
• Personal and professional development courses
• Hybrid office / work from home options
• Access to 350+ fitness facilities through Fitness Passport 
• 4 free confidential counselling sessions a year for you or an immediate family member
• 1 free nutritionist and financial advice session per year

We pride ourselves on our shared mission of being a high-performing, customer-focused organisation which delivers value-for-money services to the community. We're committed to creating a diverse workplace and inclusive culture.

The City of Gold Coast is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to promoting an inclusive and diverse workplace. We are committed to supporting an environment where all employees, regardless of their differences or similarities, feel valued, respected and supported. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander persons are encouraged to apply.