Department for Environment and Water
Job reference: 861836
Location: 5343 - BERRI
Job status: Long Term Contract
Eligibility: Open to Everyone

About the Role:
The Principal Hydrographer conducts surveillance and survey work in rivers and streams in accordance 
with work programs and priorities of the Department and across the State.  The Principal Hydrographer 
has lead responsibility for conducting a range of technical duties associated with design, installation and 
maintenance of technical equipment along with the collection of valid surface and ground water data 
and overseeing the entry of that data into the appropriate information systems.  The Principal 
Hydrographer provides specialist advice, reports and support to scientific officers and external clients, 
(including Landscape Boards), local government and public enquiries on a range of matters and issues 
related to Hydrographic methodologies and field work results. 

What can we offer you!

• Working in an organisation that is contributing to significant environmental outcomes in the great state of South Australia!
• Be part of a fun, collaborative and supportive team.
• Hybrid working model with flexible working options including work from home available to promote work life balance.
• Free entry into DEW managed Parks in South Australia.
• Salary Sacrifice Benefits.
• Access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Access to our Fitness Passport Program.
• Meaningful and rewarding career.

Contract: 
Contract for up to 30 June 2028

Essential / Desirable Qualifications OR Essential Criteria (including qualifications):

• An appropriate qualification in Natural Resources, Hydrography or equivalent is essential.
• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of hydrological measurements, techniques, practices 
  and methods required to select, install and maintain hydrological instruments.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in collecting and storing water data in electronic and hard 
  copy formats with a range of hydrography related software.
• Knowledge of safe boat practices along with experience in safe work practices regarding fast flowing 
  streams and rivers
• Experience in collecting level survey data to Australian Height Datum.
• Demonstrated knowledge and application of standards, legislation, policies and procedures 
  relevant to the collection of water data.
• A current class “C” driver’s licence and willingness and ability to safely operate a 4wd is essential. 

Special Conditions:

• May be required to participate in emergency preparedness, response and recovery activities required by government agencies.
• You must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or provide evidence that you hold a valid working visa that allows you to work in Australia. 
• You will be required to provide a valid Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check issued within the last 12 months, this information must be supplied by all applicants who are shortlisted for interview. which is required to be renewed every three years before expiry. DEW will cover the cost of renewal.  
• May be required to undertake intra or interstate travel, including travel in light aircraft, occasional overnight absences and work outside of the normal hours of work.
• A successful applicant who is not currently employed by the Department for Environment and Water will be required to have an original photo identification document sighted and provide a valid Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (NCCHC).  

Remuneration: 
TGO3 $90,371 min - $95,410 max p.a.

Enquiries to:
Tim Branford
[email protected]
0417 864 531

Application Instructions:
Applications are to be submitted online through I WORK FOR SA.

Applicants are to submit a pre-employment declaration, current CV and letter of application (max. 3 pages). This letter should address the Essential and Desirable Criteria as outlined in the Role Description using the STAR method (situation, Task, Action and Result) where appropriate.

The Department for Environment and Water is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage applications from people with diverse backgrounds including all ages and gender identities, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, people with disability, culturally and linguistically diverse and LGBTIQA+.

Applications close: 03/11/2026 11:00 PM

Attachments:
- Pre-Employment-Declaration_240522.pdf
- TGO3 P57364 Principal Hydrographer RD.pdf

Flexibility Statement
The South Australian public sector promotes diversity and flexible ways of working including part-time. Applicants are encouraged to discuss the flexible working arrangements for this role.