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Senior Water Planning Officer
North Water Planning Group 2; North Region; Water Resource Management; Cairns
As a Senior Water Planning Officer, you’ll play a pivotal role within the dynamic North Region Water Planning and Science team. This is your chance to contribute to the future of Queensland’s water resources by developing cutting-edge management strategies and policies that ensure their efficient and sustainable use.
Job details
| Position status | Fixed Term Temporary |
|---|---|
| Position type | Flexible full-time |
| Occupational group | Policy & Planning |
| Classification | PO3 |
| Workplace Location | Brisbane Inner City,Cairns region,Far North Qld,Townsville region,Mackay region,Rockhampton region |
| Job ad reference | QLD/675413/26 |
| Closing date | 23-Jan-2026 |
| Job duration | 30/06/2027 with possibility of extension |
| Contact person | Tatum Taffs |
| Contact details | Ph: 07 4222 5475 Access the National Relay Service |
About the Department
The Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers (DLGWV) is at the forefront of driving sustainable growth across Queensland. Our mission is to manage water resources responsibly and empower councils to support and grow Queensland communities. With over 700 dedicated professionals across Brisbane and regional offices, we work tirelessly to ensure that Queensland's communities, businesses, and water resources thrive.
The Role
Operating from within the North Region Water Planning team, the Senior Water Planning Officer will be involved in the development of innovative management solutions and policy for the development of Water Plans, Water Management Protocols and other policy relating to the efficient and sustainable management of Queensland's water resources.
Key Duties and Accountabilities
• Conduct water planning activities within a Region, including coordinating input from associated multi-disciplinary teams and delivering output for water planning functions and business objectives.
• Drafting policy papers and recommendation for the development of water plans, supporting instruments and other water planning documents in line with Queensland Water Act 2000 requirements.
• Undertake complex technical review to inform development of water management solutions and policy and liaise with technical experts from various disciplines to inform the technical review.
• Undertake complex desktop research, data collection, interpretation, and analysis to inform the assessment of a range of water management and policy issues.
• Lead and assist with consultation with internal and external clients.
• Prepare policy papers, briefing notes and other correspondence as required.
• Contribute to analysis and interpretation of existing National and State Government strategies, policies and legislation in relation to efficient and sustainable management of Queensland's water resources.
• Contribute to a positive team culture by supporting team members and sharing information.
About You
• Hold a bachelor's degree in Agricultural or Environmental Science, Biology, Applied Science, Natural Resource Management or a degree qualification in hydrology, groundwater modelling, geology, engineering, geoscience, science. Agreed equivalents will be accepted.
• Time management and prioritisation skills.
• Ability to understand, apply and interpret legislation.
• Well-developed communication skills to negotiate with key stakeholders and provide input into discussion papers and policy to support state and national initiatives.
• This position may require overnight travel as part of the fulfilment of the role. This may involve travel outside of normal office hours and/or overnight accommodation for extended periods.
The Benefits
• Passionate engaged team with values driven culture.
• Work life balance with hybrid work arrangements.
• Opportunity to travel throughout Queensland to engage with stakeholders.
DLGWV is committed to respecting, protecting and promoting human rights in our decision-making and actions. We value the diversity of our workforce and are guided by the Queensland Public Sector Inclusion and Diversity Strategy. We strive to create a respectful and rewarding workplace culture that encourages, recognises and embraces every individual's contribution within a collaborative environment that allows all employees to thrive.
How to Apply: Submit your resume and cover letter (1 to 2 page) demonstrating your suitability for the position.
Applications to remain current for 12 months
Job Ad Reference: QLD/675413/26
Closing Date: Friday, 23rd January 2026
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.
