## Job Description
### Overview of UNSW and Fowlers Gap
At the University of New South Wales (UNSW), we strive to be a workplace where exceptional individuals can excel in their work. Our goal is to become Australia's global university, making a positive impact on people's lives through outstanding education, groundbreaking research, and a commitment to creating a more equitable society. Estate Management (EM) provides a range of services and advice to all faculties and divisions on the Kensington campus as well as our sub-campuses.
The Fowlers Gap Research Station is a field station used by UNSW Sydney for education, research, and outreach focused on the ecology and management of Australia's arid zone. Recently, the station shifted its focus from sheep farming to protecting and managing its ecosystems based on research findings. This role is located in far western NSW, 110km north of Broken Hill, and is situated in the arid zone of Australia, characterized by extreme temperature fluctuations (>40°C during the day in summer and >0°C at night in winter). The position requires living on-site, with accommodation provided.
### Why Your Role Matters
This Field Station Officer will report directly to the Senior Manager – Property & Retail and collaborate closely with the Director of Fowlers Gap Research and Conservation and Facilities Management. Key responsibilities include delivering the Fowlers Gap Strategic Adaptive Management Plan (SAMP), facilities management, hospitality, and providing practical assistance for station operations, supporting research and conservation management, teaching, education, and outreach activities.
### Key Responsibilities
- Provide general support to researchers (academics, students, agency personnel), visitors, and artist groups as required.
- Assist with accommodation bookings, lodging, and food, adhering to station policies for visitors, including managing bookings, general housekeeping, and onsite onboarding and offboarding processes for staff, students, and visitors. Ensure all visitors are aware of work, health, and safety procedures, practices, and obligations while on-site.
- Record daily activities and location logs for students, researchers, and visitors.
- Assist in developing long-term monitoring programs using camera traps and listening devices, education activities, and outreach.
- Support the Field Station Manager in coordinating and executing conservation management initiatives, such as invasive species control (e.g., goats, cats, foxes) baiting and weed control, as outlined in the SAMP.
- Collaborate with the Field Station Manager to ensure efficient operation of the station and resources.
- Participate in monthly activities with the Field Station Manager and attend regular meetings as needed.
- Work with the Field Station Manager to carry out various maintenance tasks, such as fencing, machinery repairs, vehicle maintenance, and checking and maintaining water supplies.
- Manage basic record-keeping, including logging scheduled events in the Station diary, and provide monthly/quarterly reports or worksheets regarding their work as required by the Senior Manager – Property and Retail.
- Assist in reading instruments, taking photographs (including camera trap data), and providing support in maintaining and recording weather, fauna, and vegetation condition records.
- Work with the Field Station Manager to direct and supervise external contractors providing maintenance and repair services for the station.
- Contribute input and feedback to the Field Station Manager and Regional Property Manager in developing an annual works program for Fowlers Gap
- Assist with guided tours and promote understanding of the natural and cultural values of the station, challenges of conservation management, including sharing knowledge of the landscape and UNSW research, education, and engagement.
- Provide support to the Wild Deserts Project in Sturt National Park in consultation with the Senior Manager – Property & Retail and the Manager, Wild Deserts Project, as needed.
### Requirements and Qualifications
- Completion of a certificate or post-trade certificate and relevant experience in conservation management, or equivalent level of knowledge gained through any other combination of education, training, and/or experience is desirable.
- Experience and knowledge in natural resource or environmental management, or related fields, are desirable.
- Experience in remote living environments is necessary.
- Demonstrated ability to undertake general maintenance of infrastructure and farm equipment is essential.
- Experience in feral animal control and wildlife monitoring is preferred.
- Licensed to use a firearm for feral animal control is necessary.
- Valid driver's license and willingness to obtain licenses to operate a range of heavy equipment on the station, including a front-end loader, is required.
- Current first aid certification is necessary.
- Training or willingness for training in using pesticides or herbicides in feral animal and weed control is preferred.
- Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills with a customer service focus are essential.
- Demonstrated experience supporting and contributing to projects and initiatives is necessary.
### How to Apply
For further information on the role and responsibilities, please refer to the Position Description. To apply, submit your CV and cover letter detailing your interest and suitability for the job, focusing on the skills and experience listed above, before Sunday, February 2nd, by 11:55pm. Please note that sponsorship is not available for this role, and valid Australian working rights are required upon application.
### UNSW Benefits and Culture
People are at the core of everything we do. We recognize it is the contributions of our staff who make UNSW one of the best universities in Australia and the world. Our benefits include:
- Flexible Working Options (work from home, flexible hours etc)
- Additional 3 days leave during December festive period.
- Career development opportunities
- Up to 50% discount on UNSW courses
- Flexible 17% Superannuation contributions, additional leave-loading payments, and salary sacrifice.
- Discounts and entitlements (retail, education, fitness passport)
Job queries contact: Tai James, Talent Acquisition Consultant