Local recruitment: Senior Water Officer

Local Government, Water and Volunteers
North Water Management and Use; North Region; Water Resource Management; North Region locations (Ayr, Cairns, Mareeba, South Johnstone, Townsville, Mackay, Rockhampton, Longreach)

Join the Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers (DLGWV) as a Senior Water Officer (AO6) in the Water Resource Management division. This temporary fixed term role (until 01 June 2027) supports sustainable water management across Queensland’s North Region. You’ll lead investigations under the Water Act 2000 primarily in unallocated water releases and resource operations licences for water supply schemes. Flexible work locations available (Rockhampton, Cairns, Townsville, Mackay and more). A “C” class driver’s licence and travel are required. Apply now to make a real impact on Queensland’s water future.

Job details

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 within Water Resource Management (North Region), you will contribute to regulatory dealings with unallocated water and water supply schemes 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 and water supply schemes.
• 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 (Rockhampton, Cairns, Townsville, Mackay and more).
• Professional development opportunities and career progression.
• Work that makes a real difference to Queensland communities and the environment.

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 respectful 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. We strongly encourage enquiries and applications from people with diverse backgrounds including Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

This position is available at the following locations:
 Ayr, Cairns, Mareeba, South Johnstone, Townsville, Mackay, Rockhampton, Longreach. 
Please advise your preference with your application.

Applications to remain current for 12 months.

Job Ad Reference: QLD/688751/26

Closing Date: Wednesday, 27 May 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.

• Applicant Information Pack (PDF, 1.02MB)
  
  
  688751 26 Role Description v1 (Word, 1.73MB)