Local recruitment: Senior Water Officer

Queensland Government

Queensland, Australia 🇦🇺

Local Government, Water and Volunteers
North Water Management and Use; North Region; Water Resource Management; Flexible within North Region Locations – may be dependent on availability (Townsville, South Johnstone, Ayr, Cairns, Mareeba, Mackay, Rockhampton, Longreach)

Join the Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers (DLGWV) as a Senior Water Officer (AO5) in the Water Resource Management division. This fixed-term role (until June 2028) supports sustainable water management across Queensland’s North Region. You will undertake investigations under the Water Act 2000 for water authorisations under unallocated water releases, contribute to water planning frameworks, and engage stakeholders to resolve complex resource issues.
Flexible work locations available (Townsville, Cairns, Mackay, Rockhampton, and more). A “C” class driver’s licence and travel may be required.
Apply now to make a real impact on Queensland’s water future.

Job details

Position statusFixed Term Temporary
Position typeFlexible full-time
Occupational groupPrimary Industry & Environment
ClassificationAO5
Workplace LocationCairns region,Flexible,Far North Qld,Townsville region,Mackay region,Rockhampton region,Central West Qld
Job ad referenceQLD/672350/25
Closing date05-Jan-2026
Yearly salary$104722 – $113618
Fortnightly salary$4014.00 – $4355.00
Job durationUntil 1 June 2028 with possible extension
Contact personAriane Leyden
Contact detailsPhone: 07 4837 3476
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The Department

Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers (https://www.dlgwv.qld.gov.au/)

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 within Water Resource Management (North Region), you will contribute to regulatory dealings with unallocated water under water plans and management protocols. This position supports the delivery of projects and services that achieve sustainable water use, consistent with departmental frameworks, policies, and priorities, in partnership with stakeholders.

Key Accountabilities

-Undertake investigations and make recommendations under the Water Act 2000 for water authorisations under unallocated water releases.

-Review investigations of others and provide guidance on processes, procedures, and legislation.

-Contribute to planning, development, and implementation of management frameworks for surface water and groundwater.

-Engage clients to resolve complex procedural issues associated with competing water demands.

-Consult, liaise, and provide information to user groups, the public, staff, and government agencies on water resource management matters.

-Other duties as directed.

About You

-Knowledge of surface and groundwater systems in Queensland.

-Demonstrated project management skills and ability to meet timeframes.

-Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

-A current Queensland “C” class driver’s licence (manual).

-Ability to travel, including overnight stays.

-Personal attributes such as adaptability, attention to detail, ethical conduct, and problem-solving skills.

The Benefits

-Competitive salary plus leave loading and up to 12.75% employer superannuation contributions.

-Flexible work arrangements across North Region locations (Townsville, Cairns, Mackay, Rockhampton, and more).

-Professional development opportunities and career progression.

-Work that makes a real difference to Queensland communities and the environment.

Flexible location at DLGWV North Region offices will be considered (Townsville, South Johnstone, Ayr, Cairns, Mareeba, Mackay, Rockhampton, Longreach).

Please advise your preference with your application.

Diversity & Inclusion

DLGWV is committed to respecting, protecting and promoting human rights in our decision-making and actions. We value the diversity of our workforce and strive to create a respectful and rewarding workplace culture that encourages, recognises and embraces every individual’s contribution. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

How to Apply

Submit your resume and a 1-2-page cover letter demonstrating your suitability for the position via www.smartjobs.qld.gov.au.

Applications to remain current for 12 months

Job Ad Reference: QLD/672350/25

Closing Date: Monday, 5 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.

12 days remaining

Apply by 5 January, 2026

POSITION TYPE

ORGANIZATION TYPE

EXPERIENCE-LEVEL

IHE Delft - MSc in Water and Sustainable Development