Looking for BBO Wardens for 2027!
Could You Be BBO’s Next Warden?
Following our recent announcement that Jamie and Sebastian will finish as Wardens at the end of 2026, the search has begun for the next people to call Broome Bird Observatory home.
We are looking for two Wardens to lead BBO into 2027. This is a rare opportunity to live and work on the shores of internationally significant Roebuck Bay, surrounded by extraordinary wildlife and some of the most spectacular shorebird gatherings in the world.
Located 25 kilometres from Broome, BBO is much more than a birdwatching destination. It is a centre for research, education, conservation and ecotourism, welcoming visitors, researchers, students and birdwatchers from across Australia and around the world.
What does being a BBO Warden involve?
No two days at BBO are quite the same.
The Wardens oversee the day-to-day operation of the Observatory, including accommodation and camping, guided birdwatching tours, educational courses, visitor services and the Clive Minton Discovery Centre. They also coordinate a small team of Assistant Wardens, camp hosts and volunteers while supporting BBO’s research, education and conservation programs.
One day may involve guiding visitors through the mangroves or across Roebuck Plains. The next may include welcoming school students, coordinating a research visit, solving a maintenance problem, responding to bookings or preparing for one of BBO’s birdwatching courses.
The work is varied, practical and deeply rewarding.
Who are we looking for?
The role would suit two people who work and live well together, whether they are a couple, friends or established colleagues. High-performing individual applicants may also be considered at the BBO Management Committee’s discretion.
Successful applicants will need to be organised, adaptable and comfortable taking responsibility. They should enjoy working with people, coordinating volunteers and getting involved in the practical tasks required to keep a remote nature-based facility operating.
Previous experience in hospitality, tourism or ecotourism would be valuable. A genuine interest in birds, conservation and the environment is essential, along with a willingness to learn about the remarkable birdlife and habitats of Roebuck Bay.
Life at BBO is unique. Wardens live and work on site, and working hours vary with visitor numbers, tours, courses and the seasons. Broome’s wet season brings heat and humidity, and heavy rain can temporarily isolate the Observatory. The position requires flexibility, good humour and the ability to adapt when plans inevitably change.
For the right people, it offers an extraordinary chance to become part of the BBO community and make a meaningful contribution to one of the world’s most important shorebird sites.
What is included?
Each Warden receives:
An indicative salary of $64,051 per year, plus superannuation, currently under review and likely to increase in line with BirdLife Australia salary levels
A furnished, air-conditioned, two-bedroom cottage at BBO
Power, gas, water and internet provided at no cost
Annual leave, leave loading and personal leave
Uniform shirts, a broad-brimmed hat and sunscreen
A contribution towards relocation travel costs
The BBO Management Committee is seeking Wardens who can commit for at least 12 months, with a longer stay preferred. Applicants must have full working rights in Australia, as BBO cannot sponsor working visas. Unfortunately, pets cannot be accommodated at the Observatory.
Could this be your next adventure?
Living at BBO means waking to the sounds of the bush, watching the tides transform Roebuck Bay and becoming part of a community connected by a shared love of birds and the natural world.
It is a demanding role, but it is also an experience unlike any other.
Read the complete position description and application requirements here:
Applications close at midnight, Western Australian time, on Monday 26 October 2026.
For questions please email: bbo.committee@birdlife.org.au
If this sounds like you—or like someone you know—please share this opportunity with them. The next chapter in BBO’s story is waiting to be written.