Work With Us
Work with KJ
Meaningful work. Strong culture. Martu-led impact.
Kanyirninpa Jukurrpa, known as KJ, is a Martu organisation working with Martu to keep culture strong, care for Country and build strong, sustainable communities across the Western Desert.
KJ was founded in 2005 and incorporated as a not-for-profit organisation in 2009. Our work is guided by Martu priorities, cultural authority, long-standing relationships and practical action.
Working at KJ offers the opportunity to contribute to meaningful Martu-led work across Country, culture and community.
Current Opportunities
Area Lead - Country Programs
KJ is seeking a grounded, capable and experienced senior leader to manage our Country Programs and support KJ’s Martu Ranger teams caring for Country across the Western Desert.
The Area Lead works closely with Martu Rangers, Cultural Advisors, community members, KJ staff and partners to turn Martu priorities into practical, culturally strong and well-supported outcomes on Country.
This is not a standard desk-based management role. It is suited to someone with experience in Indigenous Ranger programs, land management, conservation, natural resource management, remote operations or community-led environmental work. You will need to build trust, support people, manage complexity and work respectfully within a Martu-led organisation.
How to apply
Please submit:
your current resume; and
a cover letter of no more than two pages addressing the selection criteria and explaining why you would like to work with KJ.
Send applications to Pepita.Prince-Ruiz@kj.org.au.
project coordinator - ngurra karti transport program
KJ is seeking a practical, organised and community-minded Project Coordinator to lead the day-to-day delivery of Ngurra Karti — the Getting Back Home transport program.
Ngurra Karti coordinates safe, reliable and culturally appropriate transport for Martu returning home to community. The role also supports Martu drivers, employment pathways and driver licensing.
This is a hands-on position for someone who can manage changing priorities, build trusted relationships and keep a busy transport program operating safely and effectively.
How to apply
Please submit:
your current resume; and
a cover letter of no more than two pages outlining your interest in the role and the relevant experience and strengths you would bring.
Send applications to tristan.cole@kj.org.au.
Applications close Wednesday, 12 August 2026.
Social Programs Officer
KJ is seeking a capable and relationship-focused Social Programs Officer to support Martu participants involved in Yiwarra Kuju — KJ’s diversionary program.
This hands-on role supports participant wellbeing, connection to Country and positive community roles. Working alongside Martu participants, the Social Programs Officer provides practical support, advocacy and coordination of training, employment and other pathways.
The role involves regular time on Country and in remote communities and requires a culturally grounded, strengths-based approach. It is suited to someone who can build trusted relationships, respond calmly to changing circumstances and support participants over time.
How to apply
Please submit:
your current resume; and
a cover letter of no more than two pages outlining your interest in the role and the relevant experience and strengths you would bring.
Send applications to gerald.keyer@kj.org.au
RANGER / Community Field Coordinator
KJ welcomes expressions of interest from people interested in working as Ranger / Community Field Coordinators in remote Western Desert Aboriginal communities.
These roles support Martu Ranger teams to plan and deliver on-Country activities and Martu-led initiatives that care for Country and pass knowledge to future generations.
The work is suited to people who:
are committed to working respectfully alongside Martu;
enjoy practical outdoor work in remote environments;
can support teams and coordinate activities safely;
are adaptable, reliable and comfortable when plans change; and
want to contribute to Martu goals for Country, families and communities.
To submit an expression of interest, send your resume and a brief introductory letter to Pepita.Prince-Ruiz@kj.org.au.
Your letter should explain your relevant experience, why you are interested in working with Martu and KJ, and your availability to live or work in a remote community.
GENERAL EXPRESSION OF INTEREST
KJ welcomes expressions of interest from people who are interested in contributing to Martu-led work across Country Programs, Social Programs, cultural initiatives, community development, operations and organisational support.
To submit a general expression of interest, email the following to clt@kj.org.au:
a current resume; and
a brief cover letter introducing yourself, explaining why you are interested in working with Martu and KJ, and identifying the programs or types of roles that interest you.
Submitting an expression of interest does not guarantee that a suitable position will be available. KJ will contact you if an opportunity arises that matches your skills and experience.
Why work with KJ?
Working at KJ is different from working in a standard organisation. Our work is grounded in Martu priorities, cultural authority, strong relationships and practical action.
At KJ, you may have the opportunity to:
contribute to Martu-led work with meaningful and lasting impact;
work alongside Martu across communities and Country in the Western Desert;
support programs that strengthen culture, care for Country, support families and young people and create livelihoods;
build meaningful relationships with Martu, colleagues, communities and partners;
develop professionally while contributing to work that matters; and
work within a practical, relationship-based organisation grounded in trust and cultural respect.
The work can be complex and challenging. It requires patience, humility, resilience, sound judgement and the ability to build trust over time. It also provides the opportunity to learn deeply, lead differently and contribute to outcomes that matter to Martu.
What we offer
KJ provides employment conditions that recognise the realities of working in Newman, remote communities and across the Western Desert.
Depending on the role and location, employment benefits may include:
competitive salaries;
salary packaging options;
six to eight weeks of annual leave;
a housing allowance or KJ-provided housing;
personal travel assistance;
relocation support;
professional development support;
access to an Employee Assistance Program; and
opportunities to travel to remote communities and spend time on Country.
Employment conditions and eligibility vary according to the position and location. The specific package for each role will be explained in the advertisement or during the recruitment process.
Who thrives at KJ?
People who thrive at KJ are grounded, capable and respectful. They understand that effective work begins with listening, trust, relationships and following through.
KJ may be a strong fit for you if you:
want work with purpose, not just a position title;
are willing to learn and be guided by Martu priorities and cultural authority;
can work calmly and practically when plans change;
bring humility, resilience and sound judgement;
are comfortable working across cultures, disciplines and locations;
can balance relationships, culture, operations, safety and delivery;
take responsibility for your work and follow through on commitments; and
want to contribute to strong futures across Country, culture and community.
Our Impact
Our Values
