Senior Programs Officer Environmental Water Governance

Do you want your work to make a difference for NSW
Working to the protect the states environment and heritage.

• Internal expression of interest
• Temporary until 31 August 2026
• Office location upon negotiation across NSW hybrid working supported
• Salary relative to experience and ranges from $124322 to $138494 super

About the role

The Water for the Environment branch is offering a 7-week acting opportunity for a Senior Programs Officer Environmental Water within the Environmental Water Knowledge this role you will assist with updating long-term water plans (LTWPs) for nine catchments across the NSW MurrayDarling Basin and preparing these plans for public exhibition.

Long-term water plans play a key role in guiding water management including environmental water use to achieve long-term environmental outcomes at the catchment and broader Basin scales. The Water for the Environment branch is currently preparing the second edition of these plans for publication by December 2026.

Specific responsibilities:

• Work as part of a small team updating LTWP content across nine catchment areas. The majority of the technical content has been developed but requires application to specific catchment settings and review for accuracy and currency.
• Analyse and address feedback on draft plans from key partner agencies.
• Assist in preparing draft LTWPs for public exhibition prior to publication including the preparation of briefings for executive and supporting documentation for public exhibition.
• Assist with incorporating First Nations content into plans working collaboratively with the Water for the Environment Healing Country team which is leading engagement with First Nation people and organisations on LTWPs.

About You

• Strong written communication skills. Experience with preparing departmental publications is desirable
• Knowledge and experience in environmental and/or water programs
• Problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret data and provide clear evidence-based advice
• Confidently engage with a diverse range of stakeholders

You are an effective communicator who can prepare high-quality briefs reports and plans and confidently engage with a diverse range of stakeholders. Experience in engaging with other land and water management agencies and communities through consultation and engagement processes with the aim to incorporate diverse perspectives into environmental planning to achieve shared outcomes.

Demonstrated experience in delivering environmental programs and planning including water resource and/or conservation projects and planning is advantageous. Together with strong problem-solving and analytical skills with the ability to undertake research and provide clear evidence-based advice to support program and policy development. An ability to translate complex information into practical insights is also desirable.

Most importantly you are adaptable proactive and comfortable working in a dynamic environment with an interest in environmental water management and an awareness of the broader social ecological and policy context.

For more information read the full Role Description:Senior Programs Officer Environmental Water

Participation in the NSW Biodiversity Offsets Scheme (BOS)

Please read the Biodiversity Offsets Scheme Protocol to understand if it applies to your circumstances. All applicants for this role and new employees with an existing defined interest in the BOS will be required to disclose their personal (or a close family members) participation to ensure potential conflict of interests are declared and managed appropriately.

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.

Applications close Wednesday 15th July 2026 at 11:55PM.

Should you require further information about the role please contact Sam Dawson via or on

Looking for more information or assistance in applying

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If you require an adjustment for your application process please contact our Talent Acquisition Team by emailing or contacting Lila Snow on(please mention reference number 550908).

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