Protect and manage natural and cultural environments while connecting people to the outdoors.

As a Park Ranger, you’ll oversee the care of national parks, reserves, and recreational areas, ensuring conservation of wildlife and habitats. You’ll use technology like GIS mapping, drones, and monitoring equipment to track environmental health and support sustainable tourism. Engaging with visitors, you’ll provide education on local ecology, safety, and cultural heritage. This role balances preserving natural spaces with facilitating enjoyable, safe outdoor experiences.

In the Greater Whitsunday region, with tropical islands, the Great Barrier Reef, lush rainforests, and outback landscapes, Park Rangers play a key role managing spaces visited by around 3.3 million people annually.

What you might do day-to-day:

• Monitor wildlife and habitats
• Conduct guided walks and educational programs
• Maintain park facilities and safety measures
• Use digital tools for mapping and reporting

This role suits people who:
Are outdoorsy, observant, and passionate about conservation.

Pathway:
Many park rangers start with a Certificate III or IV in Conservation and Land Management, but university degrees in environmental science, biology, or natural resource management can also open up opportunities and support progression into specialist or senior roles.

Drive innovation in agriculture by supporting advanced technology and sustainable practices.

As an Ag-Tech (agriculture technology) Technician, you’ll maintain and operate precision agriculture equipment such as drones, sensors, and automated irrigation systems to help farms boost productivity and reduce environmental impact. You’ll collect and analyse data to support decision-making and troubleshoot technical issues. This role combines hands-on technical skills with knowledge of plant science, soil health, and digital tools. These skills are highly transferable and valued across industries like mining, environmental management, manufacturing, and energy. Collaboration with farmers, agronomists, and technology providers is key to delivering effective solutions that improve efficiency and sustainability.

In the Greater Whitsunday region, Ag-Tech Technicians play a growing role in advancing the agricultural sector with cutting-edge technology, contributing to regional economic growth and environmental stewardship.

What you might do day-to-day:

• Operate and maintain ag-tech equipment
• Collect and analyse agricultural data
• Troubleshoot technical problems
• Collaborate with farmers and other specialists

This role suits people who:
Are tech-savvy, practical, and enjoy problem-solving.

Pathway:
Typically start with VET qualifications in agriculture or agriculture technology. Hands-on experience and further study can open opportunities across multiple industries.

Power the future by installing and maintaining clean energy systems across industries.

As a Renewable Energy Electrician, you’ll work on solar panels, wind turbines, hydroelectric systems, and battery storage installations. Using advanced electrical tools and diagnostic technology, you’ll ensure these systems operate safely and efficiently. Skills in electrical installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting are highly transferable and sought after in sectors like construction, mining, manufacturing, and utilities. You’ll follow strict safety standards and collaborate with engineers, project managers, and technicians to support the shift to sustainable energy.

In the Greater Whitsunday region, Renewable Energy Electricians contribute to growing clean energy projects, supporting regional sustainability goals and technological innovation.

What you might do day-to-day:

• Install and maintain renewable energy electrical systems
• Inspect and test electrical components for safety and efficiency
• Diagnose and repair faults or failures
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to complete projects

This role suits people who:
Are technically skilled, safety-conscious, and enjoy hands-on work.

Pathway:
Typically start with a VET qualification in electrical or renewable energy technology. Apprenticeships and ongoing training help build expertise across industries.

Protect and improve natural ecosystems using science and technology.

As an Environmental Scientist, you’ll collect and analyse data on air, water, soil, and biodiversity to assess environmental health. You’ll use advanced technology such as GIS mapping, remote sensing, and data modelling to monitor ecosystems and guide conservation efforts. Your work helps manage natural resources, assess environmental impact, and support sustainable development. Collaboration with government bodies, industry, and local communities is common to develop effective environmental policies and solutions.

In the Greater Whitsunday region, Environmental Scientists play a vital role in protecting unique landscapes—from coastal reefs and rainforests to rural lands—helping balance ecological health with economic growth and tourism. New technology and increasing environmental awareness are expanding opportunities in this field.

What you might do day-to-day:

• Conduct field surveys and sample collection
• Analyse environmental data and prepare reports
• Develop and monitor environmental management plans
• Advise on regulatory compliance and sustainability initiatives

This role suits people who:
Are curious, detail-oriented, and passionate about nature.

Pathway:
Start with a degree or diploma in environmental science or related fields. Fieldwork and volunteer experience is highly desired.

Protect community health and the environment through regulation and education.

As an Environmental Health Officer, you’ll assess and manage risks related to public health and the environment. You’ll inspect businesses, monitor water and air quality, investigate complaints, and enforce health and safety regulations. Using digital reporting tools and environmental monitoring technology, you’ll help prevent disease, reduce pollution, and promote sustainable practices. Your work supports clean, safe environments in places like food businesses, public facilities, housing, and workplaces.

In the Greater Whitsunday region, Environmental Health Officers play a critical role amid natural disasters and a changing climate. They collaborate with local governments, health services, and industries to protect community wellbeing and support resilience through emergency planning and environmental management.

What you might do day-to-day:

• Conduct health and safety inspections
• Monitor environmental quality and risks
• Investigate public health complaints
• Develop and deliver education programs

This role suits people who:
Are observant, communicative, and passionate about the environment and health.

Pathway:
Typically, this role requires university study in environmental health or related fields. VET courses in community health or environmental science can provide practical skills and a useful pathway into the profession.

Drive environmentally responsible purchasing to support sustainable business practices and decarbonisation efforts.

As a Sustainable Procurement Specialist, you’ll develop and implement procurement strategies that prioritise eco-friendly, ethical, and socially responsible products and services. You’ll assess suppliers based on sustainability criteria, manage supply chains to reduce environmental impact, and incorporate decarbonisation practices to lower carbon footprints. Using data analytics and digital tools, you’ll track performance and compliance. This role involves collaborating across industries to embed sustainability goals into purchasing decisions, helping organisations meet environmental standards and community expectations.

In the Greater Whitsunday region, this role is increasingly important as businesses and governments focus on sustainable growth and reducing their ecological footprint.

What you might do day-to-day:

• Develop sustainable purchasing policies incorporating decarbonisation
• Evaluate supplier sustainability and compliance
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners
• Monitor and report on procurement sustainability metrics

This role suits people who:
Are ethical, detail-oriented, and proactive in driving change.

Pathway:
Many start with VET qualifications in procurement, supply chain, or business. University study in sustainability, environmental management or supply chain leadership supports career growth.

Shape sustainable, liveable communities through innovative design and planning.

As an Urban Planner, you’ll develop plans for land use, infrastructure, and community spaces that balance growth with environmental sustainability. Using advanced GIS technology, modelling software, and community engagement tools, you’ll assess environmental impact, zoning laws, and infrastructure needs to create smart, resilient urban environments. This role requires collaboration with government, developers, and the public to ensure projects meet social, economic, and environmental goals.

In the Greater Whitsunday region, Urban Planners play a key role in managing growth, protecting natural resources, and supporting sustainable development across urban and regional areas. The skills you gain—like project management, data analysis, and stakeholder engagement—are transferable to other sectors such as environmental consulting, infrastructure development, and regional planning.

What you might do day-to-day:

• Develop land use and urban design plans
• Conduct environmental and feasibility assessments
• Engage with communities and stakeholders
• Use digital tools for mapping and data analysis

This role suits people who:
Think strategically, embrace creativity and teamwork, and are passionate about environmental sustainability.

Pathway:
A degree in urban or regional planning and other related fields is common. VET courses in planning can support foundational knowledge, with pathways to professional accreditation.