Senior Ranger | National Parks and Wildlife Service South Australia (NPWS)

Everyone I work with took a different path on their journey to become a Ranger. I started with an Honours degree in Biodiversity and Conservation, but my first role was customer service with an insurance company.

However, I still had a passion for working in the environment sector. I returned to university for a Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Management and then got a four-month position as a Community Ranger – that was my foot in the door.

I joined the NPWS Graduate Ranger programme where I worked in Berri and Port Lincoln. I eventually became a Senior Ranger at Glenthorne National Park-Ityamaiitpinna Yarta.

An average day is diverse – it includes patrolling the park, talking to visitors, making sure that they’re enjoying themselves and answering questions. Rangers also respond to emails and online contact from the public, undertake event management and manage projects like revegetation works or volunteer programs. It’s energising to work with people who get so much enjoyment from our parks. It’s also wonderful to see our visitors fall in love with the parks and find a special connection to SA nature.

Don’t be afraid of taking on a role that may seem different to where you want to go. All the roles I have undertaken have expanded my skillset and enabled me to meet new people and make wider connections . Also, don’t be afraid to take on a role in a remote location. It can be a big step, but it opens up a world of opportunities.