Queensland Soil Science Graduate and First Nations Engagement Program

Are you passionate about preserving and restoring the health of Queensland soils? Do you have an interest in improving soil management in agricultural, natural resource and environmental industries? Are you a recent graduate with a degree in environmental science, agricultural science, or similar?

The Queensland Soil Science Graduate and First Nations Engagement Program is a new initiative to accelerate the training and development of six graduate scientists in both western and traditional methodology.

Graduates will receive training in pedology, soil survey and basics of soil chemistry and soil physics alongside traditional soil knowledge and spiritual conservation practices, to launch meaningful careers in soil science.

The project will be delivered in partnership with Natural Resource Management Regions Queensland (NRMRQ) to build capacity in regional areas and leverage existing programs.

About the program

Graduates will be hosted within a Natural Resource Management (NRM) organisation and a Queensland Government agency on a 50:50 time share basis. Engaging in on-ground activities with both the NRM organisations and Queensland Government agencies, graduates will learn to identify and promote best management practice in agricultural, natural resource and environmental industries.

Graduates will interact with scientists involved in the Great Barrier Reef Water Quality, Natural Capital, Emissions Reduction and Riverine Restoration programs and projects, activities that are of mutual benefit to the Australian and Queensland governments.

The program aligns with the Registered Soil Practitioner program administered by Soil Science Australia, the Regional Soil Coordinator Program and the National Soil Monitoring Program, and other core national training opportunities such as the National Soil Judging Competition and the National Soil Conference.

Benefits

• A 12-month program that combines on-the-job experience in the NRM sector with formal training workshops, set learning outcomes and monthly check-ins with a course coordinator.
• A smooth transition from academic studies to professional employment, with sufficient training for employment as a Soil Science Practitioner and Soil Science Australia certification.
• Access to a network of experienced soil scientists in government and industry, fostering professional growth and development and career opportunities.
• A competitive salary, along with generous leave provisions, flexible work arrangements, and employer superannuation contributions.
• Opportunities in Brisbane, Toowoomba, Bundaberg, Mackay, Townsville and Cairns. Other locations may be negotiable.

Eligibility

The program will employ three graduates each intake, including a minimum of one Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person.

To be eligible for appointment to the program you must hold a recent university degree (undergraduate or postgraduate) from a recognised tertiary institution in an environmental, agricultural or scientific discipline. Other closely related disciplines will be considered.

How to apply

Applications for our 2026 Graduate Program are open as of Friday 26 September 2025 and will close Monday 20 October 2025.

Please download the Position description (PDF, 266.3KB) for details on how to apply.