Job Description

Do you want your work to make a difference for NSW?

Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage.

• Lead major science programs across the Murray-Darling Basin, guiding research and monitoring that directly informs water and wetland management outcomes for NSW.
• Temporary, full-time opportunity (Up to June 2027) 35 hours per week
• Lidcombe Office, hybrid working supported
• Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $148,339 to $163,480 + super

Our Science and Insights team is currently seeking to appoint a Team Leader – Murray-Darling Basin Science Team to lead the delivery of scientific monitoring, evaluation and reporting programs that support the long-term health of the Murray-Darling Basin's wetlands and floodplain ecosystems.

In this role, you'll lead the delivery of monitoring, evaluation and reporting programs that provide critical evidence for environmental decision-making. Working with scientists, government agencies, research organisations and other stakeholders, you'll oversee complex projects, manage resources and budgets, and support the delivery of high-quality scientific outcomes. Your work will help inform the sustainable management of one of Australia's most significant river systems while contributing to broader environmental outcomes for NSW.

About You

You are an experienced scientific leader with expertise in water, wetlands, catchments, marine or coastal science and a proven ability to deliver complex science programs. You can apply scientific knowledge to real-world environmental challenges and have experience managing projects, budgets and multidisciplinary teams.

You build strong relationships, communicate complex information clearly and work effectively with a range of stakeholders. You are a collaborative and adaptable leader who can balance competing priorities while maintaining a focus on quality outcomes and continuous improvement.

Key knowledge and experience

• Experience in developing and leading rigorous science programs and stakeholder recognition of expertise in water, wetlands and coastal science programs such as marine and coastal, water and wetlands or estuaries and catchments science.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the Murray-Darling Basin floodplain and wetland ecosystems desirable
• Demonstrated experience developing and leading rigorous, science programs in a relevant scientific discipline.
• A strong track record of scientific publication and preparation of reports for a range of clients and stakeholders.
• Demonstrated experience in finance and managing large budgets with multiple teams.
• Demonstrated experience working in multidisciplinary teams.

Essential requirements

• A science degree or postgraduate degree in a relevant field.

For more information read the full Role Description: Team Leader – Murray-Darling Basin Science Team

About the Team – Science & Insights

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 Monday 24 August 2026 at 11:55PM.

Should you require further information about the role please contact Joanne Ling via joanne.ling@dcceew.nsw.gov.au or on 0448 284 379.

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 Gabriella Schulzer on 9585 6521 (please mention reference number 552380).

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.

Find us on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), YouTube and LinkedIn