Ranger jobs
Rangers working for NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service work as part of the team and contribute to the conservation of the natural environment and preservation of Aboriginal culture.
Read more about Ranger jobs
Rangers plan, implement and supervise projects, environmental assessments, visitor and stakeholder liaison, and field-based activities including bushfire management and law enforcement.
A person working as a ranger is a good problem-solver, able to think on their feet in emergencies (such as bushfires) and has good communication skills. They also have the vision to deal with long-term planning issues.
Skills and knowledge in managing natural and cultural heritage is a must, along with an understanding of internal policies, procedures and law enforcement.
See current NPWS job vacancies
What does a NPWS park ranger do?
A ranger's major role is to implement the functions, policies and legislative requirements, both on and off conservation reserves.
Their tasks include:
- Assisting visitors and generally managing park visitation.
- Managing wildlife.
- Enforcing park regulations.
- Controlling weeds and feral animals.
- Managing fire.
- Planning and carrying out the improvement and maintenance of park facilities.
- Preparing environmental assessments and other statutory responsibilities.
- Carrying out natural resource surveys and inventories.
- Managing historic sites in the area.
- Managing Aboriginal sites and other aspects of an area's Aboriginal culture, in consultation with the local Aboriginal community.
Knowledge, skills and experience
Rangers require skills and knowledge to manage natural and cultural heritage. They must have a relevant degree or equivalent qualification and understand issues about natural and cultural heritage conservation and law enforcement.
It’s also helpful for rangers to know about certain legislation, including the National Parks and Wildlife Act.
Because they frequently liaise with members of the public and various stakeholder groups, rangers need excellent verbal and written communication skills. Rangers also need to write reports and provide advice within the department about conservation matters.
How to apply for a ranger job
NSW Government jobs, including NPWS jobs vacancies are advertised on the I Work for NSW website. The best source of information on how to apply for NSW Government jobs can be found on the Public Service Commission (PSC) website.
When a government job is advertised, a role description is provided which explains the function of the role and details the capabilities and behaviours that are needed. These are based on the NSW Public Sector Capability Framework.
Applying for a government job is not the same as applying for jobs in the private sector, and the process includes several defined steps. Following these processes will give you a much better chance of getting an interview.
Learn more about working at NSW National Parks.