Project Officer - Feral Cat Monitoring & Detection

The KILB is currently seeking to appoint a Project Officer - Feral Cat Monitoring and Detection.
This exciting role will oversee the application of cutting edge invasive species monitoring and detection technologies to support delivery of Feral Cat eradication and control measures across Kangaroo Island.
The Feral Cat Eradication Programs 4G camera and eVorta Artificial Intelligence (AI) software network has grown significantly and currently supports 210 cameras in the field, with an additional 100 cameras to be installed over the next six months. Management of the 4G and AI supported eVorta technology requires a dedicated Project Officer to ensure quality assurance protocols are in place, reporting milestones are delivered and real-time data are summarised and accessible to inform the daily on-ground actions and targeting of Feral Cats by the field staff. When the systems are in place, this position will be responsible for ensuring these data can be interrogated to provide estimates of Feral Cat occupancy, density and abundance to inform the levels of progress and proof of absence in the final stages of the program.
The Project Officer will ensure the effective delivery of programs using 4G camera and eVorta AI software monitoring technology and will be responsible for supervision of field staff managing these networks. This role will also be required to develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders and the Kangaroo Island community to support program delivery across Kangaroo Island.
About you
We are seeking a motivated and committed individual with:

• A minimum degree level qualification in Biodiversity Conservation, Natural Resources Management, Environmental Science or Biological Sciences is essential.
• Experience in planning and undertaking landscape-scale invasive predator and/or terrestrial fauna monitoring using camera traps and image analysis software.
• Demonstrated ability to solve problems relating to the application of new technologies in the context of working in remote and isolated regions and engaging landholders to achieve positive outcomes.
• Demonstrated ability to collate, archive and manipulate spatial and detection data, with a good working knowledge of data and records management. Experience with GIS applications is essential.
• Experience working in a team, and a willingness to assist in management of all aspects of a project.
• Effective communication skills, with demonstrated capacity to provide positive engagement with staff, stakeholders and community.
• Knowledge of the role of introduced predator management in terrestrial fauna conservation.
• South Australian firearms licence is desirable.

About us
Kangaroo Island (KI) was recently named one of world's best travel destinations recognising it as a premier eco-tourism destination which offers distinct local produce, abundant native wildlife, natural experiences, and some of the nation's most pristine beaches.
KI is Australia's third largest island with a population of around 4,980 people. Just under 50% of the island remains covered in natural habitat, supporting abundant and diverse flora and fauna. This thriving biodiversity underpins the health and well-being of the island's community, and successful tourism and sustainable primary production industries. The island's economy depends on the natural environment with primary industries and tourism accounting for around 90% of gross regional product.
The Kangaroo Island Landscape Board employees between 30 and 40 staff and is responsible for delivering programs that support the regions priorities towards managing and protecting our productive and natural landscapes. A key focus is supporting land holders to manage their land, water, pest animals and weeds. The Board is dedicated to preserving the islands biodiversity through programs that support threatened and endangered species and works with a diverse range of key stakeholders to secure the future for these species and communities.
The Kangaroo Island Landscape Board is delivering the Feral Cat Eradication Program, first by removing Feral Cats on the 38,000 ha Dudley Peninsula as a proof of concept for the whole of Kangaroo Island. This ambitious program if successful will make Kangaroo Island the largest inhabited Feral Cat free island in the world. Application of novel monitoring and control technologies have vastly improved the efficacy of these programs and place the Board at the forefront of Feral Cat management nationally. This role represents an exciting opportunity to join a passionate and dedicated team, applying the latest technology to deliver a program of national significance.
Kangaroo Island Landscape Board is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage applications from people with diverse backgrounds including all ages and gender identities, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, people with disability, culturally and linguistically diverse and LGBTIQA+. nrmjobs.com.au/job/20020357
Date published:
11-Jan-2024
Closing date:
10-Feb-2024