Directorate: Environment & Planning Directorate Division: Environment Section: Conversation Research Sub-Section: Terrestrial fauna team Position Title: Assistant Ecologist Position No.: 16017 Classification: Professional Officer Grade 1 The Directorate The Environment and Planning Directorate (EPD) has responsibility within the ACT Government Service for policy development relating to climate change, waste, heritage, planning, transport planning, energy and water, together with regulatory responsibilities for development and building applications, nature conservation and environment protection. EPD serves the government to provide the highest possible quality of services to the people of Canberra, with the objective of securing a sustainable future for the ACT and its community. The Section Conservation Research (CR) is responsible for a range of applied ecology programs. CR prepares scientific advice on management of: threatened species, bush fire hazard, vertebrate pests, and how to ameliorate the conservation impacts of urban development. The section conducts low-level research including biological surveys, biodiversity monitoring and ecological research, and prepares reports and other documents such as threatened species action plans. The Position The Assistant Ecologist, under limited direction, will: 1. Undertake less difficult projects and assist with survey and research and ecological investigations, focussed primarily on native and introduced wildlife but also including plants and vegetation communities. Support for other ecology programs, may also be required, e.g.: aquatic projects. 2. Assist in the provision of scientific advice and logistic support to achieve specified outputs. 3. Assist in the collection, identification, preservation, storage, display and retrieval of biological materials and reference information. 4. Assist in the analysis and the preparation of data and written material, including reports, information papers and correspondence. 5. Undertake delegated responsibilities as a Conservation Officer pursuant to the Nature Conservation Act 1980. 6. Maintain records in accordance with the Territory Records Act 2002. Selection Criteria 1. Demonstrated ability to organize and undertake fieldwork for ecological survey and monitoring tasks, including working with living or dead animals, animal droppings, plants and microscope work. 2. Sound scientific knowledge and understanding of the principles of ecology, and knowledge of fauna and flora of the ACT region. 3. Ability to operate computers for word processing and data entry, storage and retrieval to support information needs including the use of Geographic Information Systems. 4. Sound verbal and written communication skills especially in relation to the provision of expert advice to a range of clients. 5. Demonstrated experience in working within a team environment but also capability to work independently. 6. Commitment to implementation of the principles of workplace diversity, participative work practices, workplace health and safety, and compliance with the requirements of the Territory Records Act. Qualifications and experience other than prescribed      Tertiary qualifications in a field of environmental management or biological science, preferably including studies in Botany, Zoology or Ecology. A current manual driver's licence. Willingness to work in remote locations, out of hours and in adverse weather conditions and the ability to work independently in the field. A willingness to participate in fire suppression and fire training. A current Senior First Aid certificate is desirable. Further Information For further information about EPD, its roles and functions, employment conditions, office locations and other related resources, please visit http://www.environment.act.gov.au/.