Hydrographer

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

Opportunity to contribute to water monitoring to support the communities and environment throughout NSW

• Temporary role of 18 months - full-time role at 35 hours per week plus FlexTime
• Located in Newcastle region (Gateshead)
• Salary relative to experience and ranges from $84659 to $92701 super

The Manly Hydraulics Laboratory is seeking a Hydrographer to assist in the coordination of a range of oceanic/marine coastal estuarine/riverine (including flood waters) water system sewer system and/or stormwater system monitoring services under the guidance of senior staff to deliver high quality and innovative client outcomes.

This role will support the Hydrometrics Operations Team which has responsibilities to collect and provide real time environmental data for MHLs commercial clients throughout NSW in a high quality timely and cost- effective manner.

About You

To be successful in this role you will:

• Be motivated multi-skilled and organised individual with a desire to work in the field to collect water and environmental data.
• Be willing and able to conduct outdoor inspections walking distances over rough ground working at heights entry to confined spaces (if certified) including sewers lifting manual labour swimming and working in boats.
• Have demonstrated experience working in natural systems including in and around water and have a high level of attention to detail.
• Thrive in a team environment and have strong communication and collaboration skills to work across the business.
• Have a genuine interest in and enjoy problem solving technology and regular travel.

In addition the following would be an advantage in addition to the essential criteria below:

• Microsoft 365 software
• Remote site installation and maintenance
• Construction experience and use of tools
• Experience with low voltage solar systems / environmental monitoring systems

The continuous guidance from the senior team members and your willingness to learn and grow will see you excel in this role. This is an excellent development opportunity to broaden your skills across the department and develop your capability.

Essential Requirements

• Appropriate qualifications or equivalent industry experience.
• Has or ability to obtain certification including boat licence confined spaces four-wheel driving commercial diving advanced resuscitation and coxswain.
• Ability to demonstrate swimming/rescue (up to 200m) assessment medical fitness assessment and first aid certificate.
• Ability and willingness to safely carry out all duties working on or near water in the natural environment and urban environment including wastewater and stormwater systems.
• A valid NSW drivers licence and willingness to travel including overnight stay and field work.

For more information read the full Role Description: Hydrographer

Who we are

Manly Hydraulics Laboratory (MHL) is a business unit within the Water Group of the Department of Climate Change Energy the Environment and Water that provides specialist and impartial advice relating to coastal and water engineering and water flow assurance utilising physical and numerical modelling NATA accredited facilities and extensive data collection programs in water sewer stormwater irrigation coastal riverine and environmental systems.

The Department of Climate Change Energy the Environment and Water(DCCEEW) works to protect the states 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 states 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.

The Water Group leads the NSW Government in providing confidence to communities and stakeholders with the transparent stewardship of water resources provision of services and reforms that support sustainable and healthy environments economies and societies across NSW.

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 Monday 23 February 2026 at 11:55pm.

Should you require further information about the role please contact Matt Smith Team Leader Hydrometrics Operations MHL via email .

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 contacting Eloise Fleck on(please mention reference number 547634).

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 for a yarn.

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