“This is about cats that destroy thousands of native animals every day.”

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is recruiting tow full-time cat control officers in the department’s first-ever dedicated feral cat control team.

The advertised package includes a base salary between $93,295 - $102,941, employer's contribution to superannuation, plus a 9.7% loading for working irregular roster patterns.

NPWS are recruiting for two full time temporary roles, up until 30 June 2027.

According to NPWS every year, feral cats kill around 1.5 billion native animals across Australia. They are a key cause of Australia having the worst mammal extinction record in the world and are a direct threat to over 200 at-risk species.

After three good rain seasons in western NSW, feral cat numbers are up and will be putting huge pressure on threatened species populations in regional conservation areas and parks. To tackle this problem, NPWS say they are establishing a team of expert feral cat controllers to protect threatened animals like the yellow-footed rock wallaby, dusky hopping-mouse, grey grasswren, and Barrier Range dragon.

Experience with hands-on control of feral cats and a commitment to the safe operation of firearms and animal welfare are essential for these roles. The team members will undertake ground shooting, baiting and trapping as well as managing remote sensors and cameras.

Member for Parkes Roy Butler MP supports the move.

“Uncontrolled cats can be devastating to native species,” he said on social media.

“NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service is looking for people to be involved in cat eradication.

“This is not about the desexed moggies that stay inside or in runs, this is about cats that destroy thousands of native animals every day.”

Based in Broken Hill, Dubbo or Bourke, details for the new positions can be found on the ‘I Work for NSW’ website.

Applications close on September 22, 2024.

Essential role requirements

• • Experience in development and delivery of programs and projects in a timely manner.
  • Understanding of contemporary project management principles and practices.
  • Experience in the use of pesticides, firearms use, ability to fly in light aircraft and undertake remote fieldwork and animal trapping.
  • Current Class C Driver’s License.
  • Current firearms license, or ability to obtain a firearms license within the first six months of commencing in the role.

This is a physically active role suited to candidates of all genders who are fit and enjoy working outdoors as part of a team. Applicants must meet the requirements of a pre-employment medical.