Senior Botanist – Lead With Science. Grow With Purpose.

Location: NSW – Flexible (Kariong, Beresfield, or Hybrid)
Job Type: Full Time/Part Time
Reports to: Principal Ecologist

At Travers bushfire & ecology, we’re seeking an experienced and passionate Senior Botanist to help deliver high-quality botanical assessments and guide the next generation of ecologists. This is your opportunity to bring technical leadership, project delivery expertise, and a collaborative spirit to a growing consultancy that values science, integrity, and long-term impact.

Whether you’re currently leading vegetation assessments or ready to take the next step from mid-career to senior level, this role offers diversity, autonomy, and purpose—alongside a trusted and respectful team

🌱 About the role

As a Senior Botanist, you will undertake and lead vegetation surveys, floristic analysis, and botanical components of biodiversity assessments under the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 and Commonwealth EPBC Act.

You’ll work across diverse environments throughout NSW—from bushland reserves to major infrastructure corridors—delivering robust, science-based reports and approvals support for clients across conservation, energy, transport and development sectors.

You’ll also support the mentoring of junior team members and collaborate closely with colleagues in ecology, bushfire planning, arboriculture and heritage.

🌿 Key Responsibilities

  • Plan and lead field surveys for vegetation classification and floristic composition
  • Apply NSW Vegetation Classification (PCTs) and BAM methodologies accurately
  • Undertake data analysis, including use of BioNet, Biometric tools and GIS
  • Prepare high-quality technical reports (BDARs, ecological impact assessments, management plans)
  • Ensure scientific rigour and legislative compliance in all work
  • Mentor early-career ecologists and provide quality assurance across reports
  • Support project scoping, client communication and proposal preparation as required
  • Work independently and collaboratively across disciplines to support integrated solutions

🌟 Who We’re Looking For

You are a botanical specialist with strong field ID skills, technical accuracy, and a collaborative mindset. You understand how to interpret policy, apply science to planning, and communicate findings clearly to clients and regulators. You take pride in the integrity of your work and are motivated to mentor others and leave a positive legacy.

You bring:

  • A goal-focused, professional attitude with high personal accountability
  • Confidence in your plant ID skills and scientific reporting
  • Interest in mentoring and team development
  • A genuine interest in ecological systems and long-term environmental resilience
  • Respect, integrity and a passion for ongoing learning

📋 Essential Skills & Qualifications

  • Degree in Botany, Environmental Science, or a related discipline with a major in botanical study
  • Minimum 5 years’ experience in vegetation survey, mapping and impact assessment in NSW
  • Proficient in NSW Plant Community Types (PCTs) , BAM, and BioNet
  • Strong field skills in native plant identification (incl. threatened species)
  • Demonstrated ability to author or review BDARs, EIS chapters, REF flora components
  • Solid knowledge of relevant legislation (NSW BC Act, EPBC Act, BAM guidelines)
  • Competence with spatial tools (GPS, ArcGIS/QGIS) and Microsoft Office
  • Current driver’s licence and ability to travel for fieldwork
  • White Card and First Aid (or willingness to obtain)

✅ What You’ll Get

  • A senior, respected role in a mission-driven consultancy
  • Flexible or hybrid working arrangements
  • Mentoring and leadership development pathways
  • Access to company vehicles, field gear and professional software
  • Paid training and continuing professional development
  • Participation in our Sustainability Offset Program (10 native tubestock per annum)
  • A multidisciplinary team of ecologists, bushfire consultants, arborists and heritage specialists
  • A values-led, safe, and inclusive work environment
  • 24/7 access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

🌍 About Us

Travers bushfire & ecology has been operating for more than 15 years, delivering expert bushfire, ecological, arboricultural and archaeological consulting services across NSW. We are a high-performance, purpose-driven team focused on building resilient landscapes and guiding good decisions that shape safer, more sustainable communities.

We believe in trust, leadership, and long-term contribution—and we’re looking for someone who shares our values and wants to make a lasting impact through excellent botanical science.

📩 Apply Now

Click Apply, and upload your resume and a cover letter outlining your experience and motivation for applying.

For a confidential discussion, contact Karen Woodford on (02) 4340 5331.
Learn more at: www.traversecology.com.au

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