Big game hunter loses conservation job, will still get paid

The big game hunter appointed to a top conservation role in Western Australia has lost his new role – but he'll keep getting paid.

Jewell Crossberg became a controversial figure after 9News revealed photos of him posing with dead big game in South Africa, after he was appointed to a managerial role in Esperance by the Department of Biodiversity and Conservation.

"I regard the things he's done in his past as disgusting," Premier Mark McGowan said.

After initially backing Mr Crossberg's appointment, the department has now said the images do not reflect their values.

Mr Crossberg will keep his government salary, but will be moved to a non-managerial role away from Esperance.

Mr McGowan wants him sacked.

"I'm pretty annoyed at them to be honest," he said.

Last week the state government department revealed Mr Crossberg had disclosed his professional work with authorised big game hunting in Africa, and it was found suitable by a panel during his recruitment in 2017.

The Shooters and Fishers party said his removal was a harsh, knee-jerk reaction.

"My understanding is that (the animals) were taken under permit, and legally," Shooters and Fishers MLC Rick Mazza said.

"So he hasn't broken any laws and this is simply some self-righteous people taking the high ground."