Project Officer/ Marine Biologist

Position Overview

Reef Catchments is seeking a Project Officer/ Marine Biologist to support the delivery of innovative seagrass restoration, research, and community engagement activities across the Whitsunday region.

Based in Proserpine, this role provides a rare opportunity to work at the intersection of science, conservation, and community, contributing to the resilience of Great Barrier Reef ecosystems. Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Deliver seagrass restoration projects, including planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting on outcomes
• Undertake field-based activities such as seagrass planting, habitat assessments, and ecological monitoring
• Operate and maintain a seagrass nursery, including propagation and husbandry of seagrass species
• Support research projects by assisting with fieldwork, data collection, and collaboration with research staff and students
• Engage with community, stakeholders, and Traditional Owners to deliver education, training, and on-ground activities
• Monitor project milestones, budgets, and deliverables to ensure successful project outcomes
• Contribute to data management, analysis, and reporting to support both project and research objectives

About You

You are a passionate marine science professional with a strong interest in seagrass ecosystems and coastal habitat restoration. You enjoy working both in the field and in a research environment and are equally comfortable getting your hands dirty as you are contributing to scientific outcomes.

You bring a practical, solutions-focused mindset, strong organisational skills, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team. You are motivated by meaningful environmental outcomes and value working closely with community and research partners.

About Reef Catchments

Reef Catchments are the not-for-profit, non-government natural resource management (NRM) organisation for the Mackay Whitsunday Isaac region. We facilitate change and work for long-term solutions to sustain, protect, and improve our region’s natural resources and environment, both now and into the future.

This role provides a rewarding professional career path and considerable work/life balance benefits. We offer a flexible and positive work environment, with an opportunity to enhance and build your skills and experience.

Benefits of working with us

• Yearly professional development budget
• 5 weeks annual leave
• Team building activities
• Wellness incentives
• Supportive and collaborative team culture

Selection Criteria

• A degree in Marine Biology
• Knowledge of seagrass ecosystems and demonstrated experience in seagrass restoration and research
• Demonstrated experience in operating or managing an aquaculture facility
• Experience in project delivery, including planning, coordination, and monitoring of activities and outcomes
• Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines
• Well-developed communication and stakeholder engagement skills
• High level of computer literacy, including data management and reporting
• Current C Class Driver’s Licence
• Valid Blue Card (Working with Children) or ability to obtain

How to Apply

To apply for this position, please submit a cover letter addressing the selection criteria and about you sections of this advertisement along with a copy of your current, up to date Resume for consideration.

For further information, please contact Human Resources on (07) 4968 4200 or email careers@reefcatchments.com

Please forward your application to careers@reefcatchments.com by 5pm Sunday 17 May 2026.