Broome Bird Observatory Wardens (January 2022 start)

The Broome Bird Observatory Management Committee are looking for a Warden or Wardens to manage the facility from January 2022, for a minimum of 12 months (preferably longer).

The Broome Bird Observatory (BBO) is a not-for-profit organisation based on the shores of Roebuck Bay, 25 km 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.

Job tasks and responsibilities

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. 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.

Status and Remuneration

This is a live on site role for a minimum of 12 months starting January 2022. The position is available for a single person or (preferably) a couple.

• Hours vary weekly according to guest numbers, seasons and tour/course scheduling
• Indicative salary $55,000
• Superannuation guarantee; full coverage for worker’s compensation and indemnity
• 20 days of annual leave with leave loading; sick leave and personal leave available
• Basic, self-contained, furnished and air-conditioned two-bedroom cottage, including utilities
• Provision of uniform shirts, broad-brimmed hat and sunscreen

For more role details refer to the position description attached below or email enquiries to bbo.committee@birdlife.org.au             

To apply for this role

Submit a CV and short cover letter with a statement outlining how the applicant/s meet the selection criteria along with the names and contact details of two referees.

If applying as a couple both applicants should provide separate CV’s and details of two referees but may submit a joint cover letter and selection criteria response.

Applications should be submitted to the Broom Bird Observatory Committee at bbo.committee@birdlife.org.au      

Closing Date: Applications for this role close midnight (WA time) Friday 5 November 2021