The Earth Observation and Social Sciences (EOSS) business unit is seeking a dynamic, collaborative & forward-thinking Science Leader, who is passionate about science for land management & stewardship. You will lead the Earth Observation – Land Monitoring & Modelling multi-disciplinary team & manage budget & assets to deliver integrated services & information that support decision making by government & land managers.

This important role requires leadership capability and a high level of scientific expertise in earth observation & remote sensing, landscape monitoring & modelling to drive the development and delivery of impactful science that informs & supports the sustainable management of the state’s protected & productive land areas.

You will work collaboratively across the business unit to shape strategic direction and a shared team culture.

Job details

The Earth Observation and Social Sciences (EOSS) business unit is seeking a dynamic, collaborative and forward-thinking Science Leader, who is passionate about science for land management and stewardship.   You will lead the Earth Observation – Land Monitoring and Modelling multi-disciplinary team and manage budget and assets to deliver integrated services and information that support decision making by government and land managers.

The Science Leader is responsible for providing the professional leadership and strategic direction of a scientific project portfolio that informs the sustainable management of the state's protected and productive land areas.

You will lead a multi-disciplinary team applying best-practice science in earth observation and remote sensing, biophysical modelling, field data collection and data science, to develop and deliver environment and landscape monitoring. You will coordinate the translation of data into information, and its delivery through accessible and user-friendly platforms.

The team's activities include the monitoring and mapping of ground cover and pasture dynamics, fire, land use, and other landscape attributes; and the management of The Long Paddock website including the AussieGRASS and FORAGE applications.

You will supervise and work with the team's Principal and Senior Scientists, to provide proactive leadership and management of the team's services, business and resources.

You will manage multiple concurrent projects from beginning to end, as well as foster innovation to continually improve our science services and information.

As a member of the EOSS leadership team, you will work closely with the Director and other Science Leaders to lead and initiate change, shape strategic direction and a strong, shared team culture.

Collaboration and engagement with other Science Division business units, and across DETSI and other Queensland Government agencies and partner organisations is pivotal for supporting the team's work.

Experience providing succinct and informative advice through written and verbal briefings and reports is essential.

The Science Leader will:

• Manage a multidisciplinary scientific project portfolio, incorporating research and operational programs to deliver high quality science and services in an efficient manner.
• Provide specialist scientific leadership to the project portfolio to ensure the highest standards of scientific rigour and data management and alignment of the team's science with government priorities and programs.
• Provide professional leadership of a multi-disciplinary science team, including the management of human and financial resources and assets.
• Enhance and maintain high level professional and scientific expertise and skills to anticipate and respond to current and emerging issues with innovative research methodologies and technological applications.
• Lead the development and continuous improvement of digital technologies and delivery systems for enabling access to and use of scientific data and information.
• Positively contribute to leadership and workplace culture, and the implementation of strategic and priority initiatives within EOSS and the Science Division.
• Proactively develop and maintain linkages with other DESI business areas, state and national agencies, and research partners to ensure the ongoing relevance of the team's services and activities.
• Professionally represent the department at relevant forums, working groups and committees.
• Provide timely and high-quality information and advice to senior and executive level officers to address policy, legislative and other issues.
• Provide management, commitment and support for the effective implementation and ongoing management of governance policy and procedures to fulfil obligations under legislation including the Work Health and Safety Act 2012 and the Financial Accountability Act 2009.
• Foster a workplace culture that supports and promotes the interests of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and actively engage through our work to contribute to better outcomes for First Nations peoples of Australia.

Job Ad Reference: QLD/642061/25

Closing Date: Tuesday, 01 July 2025

Further information

We are committed to building inclusive cultures in the Queensland public sector that respect and promote human rights and diversity.

Please ensure you download all attachments and follow the instructions on how to apply.

Documents

Before applying for this vacancy please ensure you read the documents below.

• 642061 25 Role Description v2 (Word, 333KB)