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Benthic Ecologist - Long-term Ecological Monitoring
Townsville, QLD, Australia
AUD 79,053-99,105 / year
Posted on Jul 1, 2026
About this exciting opportunity
As an experienced Benthic Ecologist, you will work within a team environment to play a significant role in the facilitation of field and lab-based data collection, analysis, and reporting activities for a range of tropical benthic ecology projects. Your position will help enhance AIMS capacity to conduct research by conducting fieldwork, along with image and data analysis as part of the AIMS Long-term Monitoring Program.
Drawing on your knowledge you will plan, coordinate and undertake field work at remote locations including live-aboard on large vessels, taking responsibility for research equipment storage, transport etc and management of field teams. You will participate in field data collection, image analysis, data entry and analysis, and undertake sampling utilising various methods including SCUBA surveys, manta tow and other technology. Your role will contribute to the production of technical reports and scientific journal publications.
About you
Underpinning your suitability for this position will be your tertiary qualification in Marine Biology (bachelor’s degree (AOF3.1-AOF3.5) or master’s degree (AOF3.6-AOF3.9) or a related field. You will have well-developed knowledge of coral reef ecosystems and of the common marine ecological survey techniques use to sample them. You will also be able to demonstrate your:
- Ability to identify major coral reef taxa, including identifying hard and soft corals to a high taxonomic level and other benthic reef organisms at functional taxonomic levels;
- Knowledge of the advantages and disadvantages of a variety of sampling and survey techniques;
- Experience conducting field surveys of coral reef benthos using standard protocols and understanding of the principles and practices of underwater photography;
- Well-developed interpersonal skills, showcasing your experience communicating effectively with a diverse range of people to achieve mutually agreeable outcomes and ability to work in remote locations for extended periods within a team environment; and
- Ability to meet AIMS’ field work requirements for boating and diving, demonstrating extensive experience SCUBA diving and small boat handling in offshore waters and in the vicinity of coral reefs.
Highly desirable would be experience organising and leading field trips at sea or remote field stations for extended periods of time, as well as holding Occupational dive qualifications (ADAS 2815.1), Recreational Boat licence and Marine Radio Operators Certificate.
Apply now and join a world leading organisation with attractive working conditions. In line with our Enterprise Agreement, the successful candidate will be rewarded with:
- AIMS AOF Level 3 Enhanced (3.1-3.9) salary ($79,053 to $99,105 per annum) plus 15.4% superannuation
- Full-time, Temporary (Labour Hire) Parental Leave Replacement Officer opportunity, from 10 August 2026 up to 14 January 2028
- Located in Townsville (Qld)
- 9-day fortnight, enjoy a long weekend each fortnight
- Generous and supportive leave entitlements
- Access to Commuter car fleet arrangements to travel to site (in Townsville only)
- Employee Assistance Program
Discover more about Working at AIMS | AIMS.
Please note:
Non-Australian Citizens must hold an appropriate Visa with working entitlements that allows paid employment with AIMS from commencement and for the full term of the appointment, depending on the relevant Department of Home Affairs current policies.
Next step:
Further information about this exciting and challenging opportunity is outlined in the Candidate Information Pack which is available to download below. If, after reviewing the position description, which is included in the Candidate Information Pack, you believe that your qualifications, experience and professional capabilities will enable you to successfully the deliver the position responsibilities, we would be very interested in hearing from you.
Further information on the application process and tips for addressing Selection Criteria is available in our website Recruitment process | AIMS.
Submitting your application:
Please ensure that you have your completed documents (selection criteria responses, resume and cover letter) ready to attach to your online application form via our e-recruitment system which can be accessed via the "apply now" button below.
Position enquiries can be directed to Dr Mike Emslie, Research Team Leader - Reef Monitoring Team at M.Emslie@aims.gov.au. Applications must be made through our website per above.
Applications close: SUNDAY, 12 JULY 2026 (11.45PM, AEST).
Attachments:
- 22089 Candidate Information Pack.pdf