Landcare Officer Career Profile

What the role involves

Landcare Officers help turn local environmental priorities into practical projects. They may coordinate planting days, erosion control works, weed programs, grant-funded projects, workshops and partnerships with landholders, councils and community groups.

The role is more senior than a Landcare Worker because it often includes planning, reporting, stakeholder engagement and volunteer coordination.

Typical employers

Landcare Officer roles in Australia may be found with:

• Landcare networks and local Landcare groups
• catchment management authorities or local land services
• local councils
• natural resource management organisations
• not-for-profit environmental organisations
• state government environment or agriculture agencies
• community conservation projects

Key tasks

• coordinate landcare, revegetation, weed control and erosion control projects
• support volunteers, landholders and community groups
• prepare project plans, budgets, reports and grant documentation
• organise community events, workshops or planting days
• monitor project outcomes and record environmental data
• liaise with councils, government agencies, contractors and Traditional Owners
• promote sustainable land management and biodiversity outcomes

Skills and qualities

Landcare Officer work suits people with practical environmental awareness, strong communication and careful attention to detail. Useful skills and qualities include:

• project coordination
• community engagement and volunteer support
• knowledge of native vegetation, weeds and land management
• clear communication and report writing
• grant administration and record keeping
• practical field awareness and safety
• ability to work with landholders and diverse community groups

Qualifications and pathways

Useful study options and pathways may include:

• Certificate III or IV in Conservation and Ecosystem Management
• Diploma of Conservation and Ecosystem Management or Natural Resource Management
• training in community engagement, project coordination or volunteer management
• experience in bush regeneration, Landcare, agriculture, restoration or natural resource management

Landcare Officers may progress into Landcare Coordinator, Catchment Officer, Natural Resource Management Officer, Conservation Officer, Project Manager or Regional Landcare Facilitator roles.

Salary and job outlook

Salaries vary widely depending on whether the role is part-time, grant-funded, council-based, regional, not-for-profit or government-funded. Coordination and project management experience usually increases earning potential.

Where jobs are usually found in Australia

Roles are often found in regional and peri-urban areas, catchments, farming districts, council areas and community conservation networks across Australia.

Tips for getting started

• get involved with local Landcare, bushcare or catchment groups
• build experience coordinating volunteers or community events
• learn basic grant writing, reporting and project administration
• develop plant identification and land management knowledge
• highlight both practical field experience and people skills

Related environmental careers

• Bush Regenerator
• Landcare Worker
• Conservation Officer
• Natural Resource Manager
• Community Engagement Officer
• Park Ranger
• Vegetation Management Officer