Department for Environment and Water
Job reference: 847656
Location: 5000 - ADELAIDE
Job status: Ongoing
Eligibility: Open to Everyone

About the Role:
DEW have an exciting new direction and renewed focus on sustainable and responsive coastal management. As we expand and evolve, we're introducing new roles in the Coast team to enhance our dynamic, forward-thinking team. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of our coastline and be part of something meaningful and impactful for South Australia.

Are you ready to lead bold, innovative action on one of South Australia's most valuable assets - its coastline?

We're seeking a strategic and forward-thinking coastal science and monitoring expert to lead a team protecting and enhancing our shores. In this pivotal leadership role, you'll provide high level evidence-based advice and technical support in relation to the management of the South Australian coastline, including the coordination of scientific advice on the implications of climate change.

The role operates with a high level of professional independence and exercises significant judgement in managing a multi-disciplinary team of coastal scientists and surveyors.

Your leadership will ensure:

• Planning, design and implementation of coastal science projects are guided by strong direction and delivered on time with robust and innovative scientific techniques, methods and models.
• Strategic advice informs policy, planning, and Coast Protection Board decision-making.
• Strong stakeholder relationships drive collaboration across government, industry, and coastal councils.
• Compliance with safety and governance frameworks, ensuring responsible and sustainable coastal operations.
• Staff are supported and motivated, with effective supervision, feedback, and opportunities for technical and professional growth.

Apply now to lead South Australia's Coastal science and monitoring program and protect our shores for future generations.

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: 
Ongoing

Essential Qualifications:
A degree in science (or relevant discipline), and relevant higher qualification(s) or discipline publications.

Special Conditions:

• May be required to participate in responses to state emergencies or associated duties.
• 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 without restrictions.
• Prior to being employed, the successful candidate will be required to provide a valid Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (NCCHC), which is required to be renewed every three years. DEW will cover the cost of renewal.
• Intrastate and remote area travel may be required, including travel in light aircraft.
• May be required to undertake intra or interstate travel, occasional overnight absences, and work outside of the normal hours of work.
• A current class “C” driver’s licence and willingness and ability to safely operate a 4wd is essential.
• A current First Aid Certificate or willingness to obtain.

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) issued within the last 12 months.

Remuneration: 
PO4, $118,601 min - $129,116 max p.a.  

Enquiries to:
Nicole Pelton, Manager Coasts
nicole.pelton@sa.gov.au
0408 158 647

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) addressing the Essential and Desirable Criteria (including qualifications) as outlined in the Role Description.

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: 28/06/2026 11:45 PM

Attachments:
- Pre-Employment-Declaration_240522.pdf
- RD PO4 Team Leader Coastal Science and Monitoring - May 2026.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.