Senior Wildlife Ranger

Lead a passionate wildlife team. Inspire unforgettable guest experiences. Help shape the future of one of Australia's most iconic wildlife parks. 

Billabong Sanctuary is seeking an experienced and motivated Senior Ranger to join our leadership team. This is an exciting opportunity for an exceptional wildlife professional who is passionate about animal welfare, conservation, education and developing people. 

Reporting directly to the Curator and General Manager, the Senior Ranger plays a critical leadership role in overseeing the daily operations of our Wildlife Department while maintaining the highest standards of animal husbandry, staff performance, workplace safety and visitor experience. 

This is a hands-on leadership position where no two days are the same. From mentoring rangers and coordinating wildlife presentations to managing animal welfare, emergency responses and operational planning, you'll be an integral part of ensuring Billabong Sanctuary continues to deliver world-class wildlife experiences. 

About Billabong Sanctuary 

Located just 20 minutes south of Townsville, Billabong Sanctuary is home to over 70 species of Australian wildlife across 25 acres of beautiful tropical bushland. Our team is dedicated to conservation, education and creating meaningful wildlife encounters that inspire our visitors every day.

 Key Responsibilities 

As Senior Ranger you will:

• Lead and mentor a team of Rangers, trainees, volunteers and work experience students.

• Support the Curator with the daily operation of the Wildlife Department.

• Maintain exceptional standards of animal husbandry and welfare.

• Deliver and oversee engaging wildlife presentations and educational programs.

• Coordinate daily staff operations and ensure tasks are completed efficiently.

• Assist with recruitment, inductions, training and staff development.

• Conduct regular staff performance reviews and provide coaching and mentoring.

• Ensure compliance with workplace health and safety, biosecurity and animal welfare legislation.

• Maintain accurate animal records using ZIMS (Species360) and operational documentation.

• Assist with veterinary procedures, preventative healthcare and emergency animal management.

• Participate in management meetings and contribute to continuous improvement across the Sanctuary.

• Support purchasing, inventory management and operational planning when required. 

Desirable

• Certificate III or IV in Captive Animals or equivalent qualification.

• Experience using Species360 (ZIMS).

• Experience conducting wildlife presentations and educational programs.

• Knowledge of WHS legislation, biosecurity requirements and zoo accreditation standards.

• Experience managing volunteers and trainees.

• Dangerous animal handling experience (including crocodilians and venomous reptiles) will be highly regarded. 

What We're Looking For 

The successful applicant will be someone who:

• Leads by example.

• Builds positive and respectful workplace culture.

• Has outstanding attention to detail.

• Is proactive and solutions focused.

• Takes pride in developing others.

• Can confidently make decisions under pressure.

• Shares our commitment to exceptional animal welfare and outstanding visitor experiences. 

What We Offer

• Full-time leadership position.

• Competitive salary based on experience.

• Professional development opportunities.

• Work alongside a passionate and experienced wildlife team.

• The opportunity to make a genuine impact on conservation, education and guest experiences.

• Be part of an exciting future as Billabong Sanctuary continues to grow under the CaPTA Group.