Join our Rockhampton team as a Scientist (P02) supporting the Paddock to Reef Program. You’ll contribute to long-term paddock monitoring across the Fitzroy Basin, including the historic Brigalow Catchment Study.
We’re seeking someone with strong field skills, practical problem-solving ability and confidence operating in remote environments. You’ll bring solid data analysis capability (R, Python, Excel), effective communication & a hands-on approach to troubleshooting equipment and field operations. for further information, please see the Role Description

Job details

Join our Rockhampton-based team as a Scientist (P02) supporting Queensland's Paddock to Reef Integrated Monitoring, Modelling and Reporting Program. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to high-impact environmental science aimed at improving water quality outcomes for the Great Barrier Reef. You will work across a suite of paddock monitoring trials in the Fitzroy Basin, including the long-term Brigalow Catchment Study (Department of Environment, Science and Innovation) - a unique paired-catchment research site established in 1965 to understand how land use and land management influence runoff, soil fertility and water quality. Your work will form part of a program investigating sediment and nutrient loss pathways across grazed landscapes, building on extensive erosion studies completed to date.

In this role, you will help implement field trials that range from small plot experiments to sub-catchment scale monitoring. You will assist with the delivery of programmed paddock monitoring activities, including liaising with landholders, industry partners and other stakeholders across Great Barrier Reef catchments. You will contribute to water quality monitoring strategies, ensuring that data collected is reliable, high quality and suitable for long-term scientific reporting. 

Your technical responsibilities will include installing, operating and maintaining a range of field and environmental monitoring instrumentation; collecting and processing soil, water and plant samples; applying appropriate field and laboratory protocols; and supporting the analysis and interpretation of scientific datasets. You will assist in troubleshooting field equipment, adapting methods to variable site conditions, and developing practical solutions to field and logistical challenges—often in remote locations.

Data handling and interpretation are core components of the role. You will contribute to internal and external reporting, including the preparation of datasets, technical summaries and interpreting water quality, soil process and nutrient flux data. Experience with statistical software such as Excel, R, GenStat or Python is desirable and will support your ability to derive insights from complex datasets. You will also be mentored by technical staff working in remote field settings to ensure safe, efficient and high-quality data collection.

You will help coordinate field schedules, assess monitoring outcomes, and contribute to delivering reliable science for clients, stakeholders and the broader community.

We are looking for a candidate with strong analytical skills, the ability to identify problems and develop practical, evidence-based solutions, and a demonstrated capacity to acquire new technical knowledge quickly. Excellent communication skills—both written and verbal—are essential for engaging landholders, collaborating with colleagues, and preparing technical documents. Creativity, scientific curiosity, and a commitment to continuous improvement will help you contribute effectively to the program's research outputs.

All staff are expected to model leadership behaviours consistent with the Leadership Competencies for Queensland - Individual Contributor profile. This includes demonstrating initiative, supporting others, and engaging respectfully and meaningfully with First Nations communities to contribute to better outcomes through our work.

If you are motivated, hands-on, and passionate about delivering high-quality environmental science, we encourage you to join our team and help advance longterm research that protects Queensland's landscapes and the Great Barrier Reef.

Applications to remain current for 12 months. 

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.

• 672361 25 - Role Description (Word, 617KB)