Job Description

Do you want your work to make a difference for NSW?
Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage.

• Ongoing full-time opportunity - 35 hours per week
• Parramatta location - hybrid working supported
• Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $128,052 to $ 142,649 pa + super

The Science and Insights Division is seeking an experienced Senior Scientist to lead the development and delivery of climate science that supports integrated adaptation planning, infrastructure resilience, and evidence-based decision-making for the built environment across New South Wales.

In this influential role, you will lead the development of scientifically robust methods and analysis to use climate projections to inform risk assessments and adaptation planning for the built environment. You will play a key role in advancing the scientific foundations of climate adaptation by integrating regional climate projections, hazard characterisation, spatial analysis and environmental data into products that support resilient planning and investment decisions.

As part of a collaborative, multidisciplinary scientific team, you will apply your expertise in climate science and scientific coding to develop new methods, analytical tools and technical guidance that transform complex climate datasets into practical information for government, local councils and other stakeholders.

About You
You are an accomplished applied climate scientist with extensive experience in using climate projections for adaptation and disaster risk planning. You are passionate about applying science to solve real-world problems and have demonstrated success in delivering high-quality research that influences policy, planning and infrastructure decision-making. You enjoy developing innovative analytical methods and working collaboratively with experts across government, academia and industry to deliver practical climate services.

You must be highly proficient in scientific coding, spatial analysis and data analytics, with experience developing reproducible computational workflows for processing, analysing and visualising large climate and environmental datasets. You are equally comfortable publishing scientific research, preparing technical advice for decision-makers, and communicating complex information to non-technical audiences.

Essential Requirements

• Scientific qualifications, well-developed knowledge and demonstrated experience of one or more of the following: climate science, environmental science (ecology, hydrology), engineering (especially related to infrastructure), and data analysis

Desirable experience / skills (please address these in your cover letter)

• A PhD (or equivalent research experience) in climate science, atmospheric science, environmental science, engineering, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated expertise in analysing climate extremes, multi-hazard assessment (experience in one or more hazard areas, such as floods, droughts, bushfires, and heatwaves), and climate change adaptation, including the use of climate projections. Familiarity with NARCliM2.0 projections is advantageous.
• Advanced programming skills in Python, including processing, analysing and visualising large climate and environmental datasets.
• Experience using geospatial data and GIS for climate analysis and hazard mapping.
• Demonstrated ability to develop innovative analytical methods, undertake literature reviews, synthesise scientific evidence, and translate findings into practical adaptation guidance and evidence-based solutions for real-world challenges.
• Experience producing high-quality scientific outputs, including peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, guidance documents and briefing materials.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate complex scientific concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Demonstrated project leadership skills, including managing multiple priorities and collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams.

For more information read the full Role Description: Senior Scientist Adaptation

About the Team – Science & Insights
Science & Insights sits within the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW), which works to protect the state’s environment and heritage while driving a sustainable future for NSW.

Working at the intersection of science, policy and delivery, Science & Insights collaborates across government, academia, industry and communities to identify priority issues and deliver practical, high-impact solutions.

The division brings together six specialist branches spanning conservation and restoration, climate and atmospheric science, environmental protection, remote sensing and landscape science, science impact and assessment, and water, wetlands and coastal science.

Together, these teams provide the evidence, expertise and insights needed to understand NSW’s environment, manage risks and drive sustainable outcomes.

The division’s work is focused on building a strong evidence base, advancing innovation in how data is gathered and used, and translating complex scientific information into clear, actionable insights and advice. Through scientific rigour, partnerships and knowledge sharing, Science & Insights plays a critical role in protecting, restoring and strengthening the resilience of NSW’s environment for future generations.

Who we are
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) works to protect the state’s environment and heritage. It leads the way on climate change, driving the sustainable transition to a net zero economy, powered by affordable, reliable, and clean energy.

DCCEEW conserves and protects the state’s natural environment. It manages the NSW national park estate, including its rich and diverse biodiversity and Aboriginal cultural heritage for future generations.

DCCEEW also ensures sustainable management of water resources across the state, to support the environment, communities and industry.

We acknowledge the ongoing custodial responsibilities of the Aboriginal peoples of NSW to care for Country and water and are committed to establishing meaningful partnerships with Aboriginal peoples in the management of the environment.

To Apply
If excited by the information above, we look forward to receiving your application, including a copy of your resume and cover letter expressing your interest and suitability for the role.

Please note to be eligible to apply for this position you must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, or hold a valid Australian working Visa for the duration of the appointment.

Applications close Thursday, 6 August 2026 at 11:55PM.

Should you require further information about the role please contact Dr. Maryam Farzadkhoo , Principal Scientist Integration via maryam.farzadkhoo@dcceew.nsw.gov.au

A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary opportunities of the same role or role type that may become available over the next 18 months.

Our goal is to build a workforce that not only represents but also understands and serves the diverse communities of New South Wales. We are committed to making our state a vibrant and inclusive place to live, work, and thrive for everyone. Our workforce represents people of all ages and genders, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disabilities, the LGBTQI+ community, and people from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

Looking for more information or assistance in applying?

• Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace.
• How we encourage and support people with disability
• Information and adjustments for individual needs for the recruitment process and the workplace.

If you require an adjustment for your application process, please contact our Talent Acquisition Team by emailing dcceew.ta@dpie.nsw.gov.au or contacting Alexandra Blair on 02 8275 1761 (please mention reference number 551736).

If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander use our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for roles or our Aboriginal Career pathways team at AEX@dcceew.nsw.gov.au for a yarn.

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