Dr Work
The Age
Saturday March 22, 2003
Q I would like to take up a career in the parks and wildlife area, possibly as a ranger. What courses would I have to do, what qualifications would I need, and how long would it take for me to be qualified and be able to work full-time?
A Entry requirements and job prospects will vary from state to state, however the following information should give you some useful starting points.
Parks Victoria (www.parkweb.vic.gov.au) provides an extensive overview of work as a ranger and also other parks jobs in such areas as natural resources management, conservation, cultural and heritage areas, engineering, accounts, marketing, media, human resources, information technology and customer services.
Parks Victoria recruits throughout the year and has indigenous programs, community jobs programs, youth employment schemes, group recruitment programs, seasonal ranger programs and general recruitment.
You could also look at volunteer work associated with Parks Victoria that could potentially be done in conjunction with studies, or simply to get a foothold and learn on the job.
Generally you will find that an appropriate tertiary qualification, in an area such as natural resources or park management, will help your chances of securing work. Most of these are three-year degree courses and available through universities in Victoria, NSW and other states. You could also inquire about external studies (by distance education) through Open Learning Australia www.ola.edu.au.
Entry requirements can vary, based on work skills, background, specific work sought, etc., so be prepared to do a bit of research.
In NSW, the National Parks and Wildlife Service (www.npws.nsw.gov.au) provides plenty of information about career opportunities for rangers and field officers.
You might like to chase up further information through such bodies as the Victorian Department of Primary Industries and the Department of Sustainability & Environment (www.nre.vic.gov.au), the Environment Protection Authority (www.epa.vic.gov.au), in NSW, the Department of Land and Water Conservation (www.dlwc.nsw.gov.au), or in Canberra the Australian National Botanic Gardens (www.anbg.gov.au).
Q I would like to find out about possible courses in investigative services or private investigation, anywhere in Australia if necessary. Unfortunately I cannot attend TAFE because the courses that are available are too far away from my home.
A To become a private investigator, generally a person must either complete a Private Inquiry Agency Practice or Commercial Agency Practice course provided through registered training organisations including TAFE, and work as a sub-agent under the supervision of the holder of a full agent's licence for a continuous period of 12 months.
TAFE colleges have courses such as the certificate III in investigative services (private agency practice), which takes about six months to complete part-time.
Find out about private training providers through the Australian Institute of Private Detectives (www.aipd.com.au), or by writing to the AIPD at PO Box 276, Frenchs Forest, NSW 2086. You could also try the Institute of Mercantile Agents (www.imal.com.au).
Q I am interested in becoming a jeweller.
I understand I may have to do an apprenticeship and I have seen advertisements for second and third-year apprentices, but how do you become a first-year apprentice?
A Work in the jewellery industry ranges from watchmaking and repairs, to jewellery design, manufacture, sales, and working as a gemologist assessing, grading and selling precious stones.
The New Apprenticeship Referral Line, 1800 639 629, will load you up with plenty of information and so will TAFE information officers.
The Jewellers Association of Australia www.jewellers.asn.au, (phone 1800 657 726) should also be a very good contact for information.
Denis Baker is an employment consultant and author. He has published two books on job hunting: Personal Job Hunting and The Secrets of Personal Job Hunting. You can send your questions to doctorwork@mycareer.com.au
© 2003 The Age