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Senior Scientist (Aquatic Ecology)
North Water Monitoring and Compliance; North Region; Water Resource Management; Please see Role Description for details
As a Senior Scientist specialising in freshwater aquatic ecosystems, you will lead and contribute to a range of science projects across Queensland to support the review and evaluation of state water plans. This role offers diverse opportunities, including fieldwork and travel, data analysis, report writing, and a range of other desktop-based tasks.
Job details
| Position status | Permanent |
|---|---|
| Position type | Flexible full-time |
| Occupational group | Primary Industry & Environment |
| Classification | PO4 |
| Workplace Location | North West Qld,Cairns region,Flexible,Far North Qld,Townsville region,Mackay region,Rockhampton region |
| Job ad reference | QLD/672325/25 |
| Closing date | 16-Dec-2025 |
| Job duration | |
| Contact person | Julie Coysh |
| Contact details | Phone: 0499 942 763 Access the National Relay Service |
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.
Key Duties and Accountabilities
• Lead, supervise and support a team of scientists based in North Region and coordinate the development and implementation of multi-disciplinary regional aquatic ecosystem monitoring programs to support water planning.
• Identify information and knowledge gaps and co-ordinate the development and implementation of appropriate research projects to remedy this.
• Provide specialist advice, support, judgment, recommendations and input to policy and water planning on issues related to flow management and aquatic ecosystems.
• Communicate internally and externally and build linkages and partnerships with industry representatives, educational institutions, other natural resource agencies
and research organisations, community groups, staff and other clients to ensure the ongoing relevance of the information and services provided.
• Design and manage aquatic ecosystem monitoring programs in North Queensland relevant to water planning.
• Prepare reports and other written and verbal advice and briefs as required. Ensure the requirements of clients and collaborators are satisfied through the efficient, effective and timely delivery of project milestones and outputs, in accordance with agreed outcomes.
• Other duties as directed and required.
Role Requirement
• The applicant will require a Bachelor Degree in Agricultural or Environmental Science, Applied Science or Natural Resource Management. A post-graduate qualification is highly desirable.
• If your qualification is from an overseas institution, you will need to attach a certified copy of the official recognition to your application (email
skillsrecognition@deta.qld.gov.au for more information about obtaining official recognition of your overseas qualification).
• Demonstrated previous experience in monitoring freshwater ecosystems.
• Knowledge of freshwater fish ecology, turtle ecology, groundwater dependent ecosystems or another freshwater ecology specialisation.
• Applicants must hold a current “C” class manual driver's licence or equivalent.
• Boat handling skills are highly desirable.
• Out-of-hours and weekend work may be required.
• Fitness for fieldwork - this is both a field and office-based position.
• This position will require remote area fieldwork and overnight travel as part of the fulfilment of the role.
Queensland Public Sector Inclusion and Diversity Strategy
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. Please refer to our: Equity and Diversity Plan, Cultural capability action plan, disability service plan and multicultural action plan. We strive to create a rQLD/672325/25espectful and rewarding workplace culture that encourages, recognises and embraces every individual's contribution within a collaborative environment that allows all employees to thrive. We believe our workforce should represent the community we serve.
This position is available at the following locations: Mackay, Townsville, Ayr, and Mareeba. Applications from Rockhampton, South Johnstone, Cairns, and Brisbane will also be considered. Please advise your preference with your application
Applications will remain current for 12 months.
Job Ad Reference: QLD/672325/25
Closing Date: Tuesday, 16 December 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.
