Do you want to work to make a difference for NSW?
Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage

• Ongoing full-time opportunity available
• Based in Cobar, Far West NSW
• Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $76K pa to $118K pa + 17% loading for working weekends and public holidays, and employer's contribution to superannuation
• Successful candidates may be eligible for additional financial support on top of their salary package. This may include a remote area allowance and additional subsidies such as relocation support.

Big skies. Open country. Work that makes a difference.

Looking for a role where you can combine environmental expertise with time on Country and make a practical contribution to conservation?

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is looking for a Ranger based in Cobar, Far West NSW. You will work across iconic parks and new reserve acquisitions, supporting conservation, visitor management and on-ground operations which provide known and potential habitat for threatened species and hold significant cultural importance for the Ngiyampaa people.

What you’ll do

This is a varied role combining environmental planning, stakeholder engagement and practical park management, where you’ll help shape how these areas are managed and protected.

More broadly, NPWS Rangers contribute to the management and protection of natural, Aboriginal and historic heritage through environmental planning, project management, threatened species and pest management programs, fire management and law enforcement activities. They also work closely with communities and stakeholders to balance park use with the protection of park values. 

What you’ll bring

We’re looking for someone who can think critically, communicate clearly and turn environmental knowledge into practical outcomes.

You’ll be comfortable managing competing priorities, working independently and collaborating with people who bring different perspectives. Experience in environmental planning, natural or cultural heritage conservation, stakeholder engagement or park management will help you make an impact.

Life and work in Cobar

At the crossroads of the Barrier Highway and Kidman Way, Cobar offers big skies, open landscapes and the opportunity to become part of a regional community.

This role will suit someone who enjoys solving practical environmental problems, building relationships and balancing time in the field with planning and assessment work.

You’ll work with a diverse range of people and perspectives, including neighbours and local Aboriginal communities, to reach practical outcomes while protecting the natural and cultural values of these important landscapes.

Ready for a different kind of workplace?

Join NPWS in Cobar and help shape the future management of some of NSW’s newest conservation areas.

Come for the opportunity. Stay for the big skies, open country and work that makes a difference.

Essential requirements

• A degree or equivalent relevant to the field operations of the Agency.
• Current Australian Class C Drivers licence or equivalent and ability to operate four-wheel-drive vehicles.
• Required to obtain certification at the appropriate level prior to undertaking firefighting/incident control duties.
• Willingness to fly in light aircraft and preparedness and ability to be involved in incident management duties including firefighting.

This is a physically active role suited to candidates of all genders who are fit, enjoy working outdoors as part of a team, and are eager to learn and develop the skills and qualifications needed to contribute toward improving and maintaining some of NSW’s most precious natural places. Applicants must meet the requirements of a specific medical assessment which is inclusive of a clearance to undertake the fitness test for firefighting fitness roles (i.e. moderate level Task-Based Assessment for Firefighters) within the 12-month probationary period, if relevant.

The role holder must obtain certification at the appropriate level prior to undertaking firefighting/incident control duties.

For more information read the full Role Description and to view the Ranger Progression and Degree Requirements please click here.

Who we are
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) works to protect the state’s environment and heritage. It leads the way on climate change, driving the sustainable transition to a net zero economy, powered by affordable, reliable, and clean energy.

DCCEEW conserves and protects the state’s natural environment. It manages the NSW national park estate, including its rich and diverse biodiversity and Aboriginal cultural heritage for future generations.

DCCEEW also ensures sustainable management of water resources across the state, to support the environment, communities and industry.

We acknowledge the ongoing custodial responsibilities of the Aboriginal peoples of NSW to care for Country and water and are committed to establishing meaningful partnerships with Aboriginal peoples in the management of the environment.

What we can offer you
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service is a great place to expand your career and grow your skills and knowledge.

• Accrued days off in addition to Annual Leave
• Corporate wellbeing programs, including the Fitness Passport
• Learning and development opportunities, including in-house training.

What we do
About NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service
Visit a park
West Branch Overview

To Apply
If excited by the information above, we look forward to receiving your application, including a copy of your resume and cover letter expressing your interest and suitability for the role.

Please also note, to be eligible for an ongoing role in the NSW Public Sector you need to be an Australian Citizen, New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident. For temporary and casual roles, you need to hold a valid visa giving you permission to work in Australia as required by the role.

Applications close Tuesday 27 October 2026 at 11:55pm.

Should you require further information about the role please contact Fiona Buchanan via Fiona.Buchanan@dcceew.nsw.gov.au or on 0459 810 557. 

A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary opportunities of the same role or role type that may become available over the next 18 months.

Our goal is to build a workforce that not only represents but also understands and serves the diverse communities of New South Wales. We are committed to making our state a vibrant and inclusive place to live, work, and thrive for everyone. Our workforce represents people of all ages and genders, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disabilities, the LGBTQI+ community, and people from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

Looking for more information or assistance in applying?

• Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace.
• How we encourage and support people with disability
• Information and adjustments for individual needs for the recruitment process and the workplace.

If you require an adjustment for your application process, please contact our Talent Acquisition Team by emailing dcceew.ta@dpie.npws.gov.au or contacting Jodi Arthur on 02 6360 9015 (please mention reference number 553293).

If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander use our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for roles or our Aboriginal Career pathways team at AEX@dcceew.nsw.gov.au for a yarn. 

Find us on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), YouTube and LinkedIn.