Local Government, Water and Volunteers
North Water Planning Group 2; North Region; Water Resource Management; Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Rockhampton, Mareeba, South Johnstone, Longreach.
We’re seeking a Principal Water Planning Officer to join our North Region team.
In this pivotal role, you’ll lead the charge in developing innovative management solutions and policies for water planning instruments under the Water Act 2000.
This is your chance to shape the future of water resource management while leading a talented team of professionals.
Job details
| Position status | Permanent |
|---|---|
| Position type | Full-time |
| Occupational group | Primary Industry & Environment |
| Classification | PO5 |
| Workplace Location | North West Qld,Cairns region,Far North Qld,Townsville region,Mackay region,Rockhampton region |
| Job ad reference | QLD/675678/26 |
| Closing date | 28-Jan-2026 |
| Yearly salary | $133603 – $143125 |
| Fortnightly salary | $5121.00 – $5486.00 |
| Job duration | |
| Contact person | Maxine Kerr |
| Contact details | Phone: 0447 912 790 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.
The Role
Operating from within North Region, you will be involved in the development of innovative management solutions and policy for the development of water planning instruments under the Water Act 2000. The principal water planning officer is responsible for leading a small team and guiding policy decisions on water planning documents, allocating project task priorities, and advising leadership on water planning issues and risks.
Key Duties and Accountabilities
• Lead water planning projects such as development of contemporary water plans and water management protocols in consultation with stakeholders and consideration of best available science.
• Identify emerging issues, policy and planning needs in water resource management and provide expert strategic advice to senior management relevant to the delivery of outcomes for the sustainable management and use of Queensland’s natural resources.
• Prepare and/or oversee the preparation of complex reports, policy submissions, briefing notes, presentations, speeches, publications and correspondence for Cabinet, State Committees, Industry/Stakeholder Groups, the Minister and senior departmental management.
• Plan, coordinate and supervise the development and implementation of water plans and other planning instruments relating to sustainable resource management.
• Understand, interpret and steer development of hydrologic, socioeconomic, ecologic and cultural values assessments and how they relate to water planning.
• Develop, manage and/or oversee multi-disciplinary projects, including consultation with stakeholders, to deliver policy outcomes that are consistent with the overall
policy direction of the Queensland Government.
• Develop and maintain constructive working relationships and networks with clients and stakeholders. Work collaboratively and negotiate with colleagues and with other
levels of government, industry and non-government organisations to achieve policy outcomes and deliver on Government commitments.
• Represent the Department and the Queensland Government at external forums and on inter-agency and inter-jurisdictional working parties.
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.
The Benefits
• Opportunities for regional travel and regional engagement on occasion
• A chance to be part of leading a motivated team dedicated to managing Queensland’s natural resources
• Generous State government employee benefits.
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 llows all employees to thrive.
This position is available at the following locations: Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Rockhampton, Mareeba, South Johnstone, Longreach. Please advise your preference with your application.
Applications to remain current for 12 months.
Job Ad Reference: QLD/675678/26
Closing Date: Wednesday, 28 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.
