As Western Australia’s primary water and environmental regulator, the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation has a responsibility to be an influential and future-focused organisation. Our vision is for a low-carbon Western Australia with a healthy environment and secure water resources for future generations.
The department holds itself accountable to being fair, efficient and effective. We respect First Nations people’s knowledge and cultural advice. As a forward-looking department we are guided by good science and embrace new technologies and practices. We value and engage with our stakeholders and we strive to be transparent in all we do and to build trusted relationships.
Our values-based culture reflects who we are and how we go about business. We would love you to see some of the exciting work and opportunities available at DWER.
We care | We build trust | Better together | Open minds | We serve to make a difference
Find out more about us by visiting our website at www.dwer.wa.gov.au
The Opportunity:
This is a Full Time Permanent opportunity, Part time may be available by agreement
Shape the future of water in Western Australia
The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER) is seeking a motivated and experienced Senior Water Planner to lead and deliver strategic water supply planning across the state. In this role, you will use your technical expertise and leadership skills to help ensure sustainable water solutions for Western Australia’s growing population, urban expansion, and industry development.
About the Role
This is a high-impact role where you will manage key projects and programs, coordinate water supply and demand assessments, and communicate insights to inform planning decisions. You will also play a pivotal part in mentoring junior staff and supporting the department’s commitment to equity, inclusion, and innovation.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead complex water planning projects and manage programs of work.
- Conduct and report on water supply and demand analyses.
- Prepare technical papers and present findings to diverse audiences.
- Work across the department to align water planning with science, policy and regulation.
- Engage external stakeholders to achieve Government objectives for water security.
- Mentor and build the capability of junior team members.
Our Ideal Candidate
You will be a strong communicator with demonstrated experience in water planning or water resource management. You’re comfortable leading teams, analysing complex information, and driving high-quality project outcomes. You bring a collaborative approach and a passion for public service.
To be successful in this role, you will have:
- A degree in Science or Engineering in a relevant discipline.
- Substantial knowledge of water planning or water resource engineering.
- Strong analytical, computing and reporting skills.
- Experience managing teams and delivering technical projects.
- Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills.
Special Requirements
- This role requires the ability to travel independently throughout the state.
As a department we recognise that flexible working arrangements support effective work-life balance, empowers our people and increases team productivity. We are committed to creating an equitable and diverse workforce that promotes an inclusive and supportive workplace environment. We value the unique diversity of experience that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, people from culturally diverse backgrounds, women and youth bring to our workforce.
For further information about the opportunity, we encourage you to contact Kathryn Buehrig on 08 6364 6892 or via email Kathryn.buehrig@dwer.wa.gov.au during business hours.
How to apply
If you believe you have what it takes to succeed in this opportunity, please apply online by clicking the ‘Apply for Job’ button (above or below) and provide the following in Word or PDF format:
- A comprehensive CV that details your experience relevant to this opportunity
- A maximum two (2) page statement outlining the key responsibilities and achievements you have had during your career in context of the work related requirements in the job description form( JDF)
- Two (2) referees (one preferred to be a current supervisor or recent manager)
- *A copy of your Bachelor of Science or Engineering qualification (degree and transcript) appropriate for the responsibilities described.
Please Note:
- To be eligible for appointment, applicants must have documentary evidence of entitlement to live and work in Australia for the duration of the employment opportunity.
- DWER conducts employment screening which may include a National Criminal History check.
- Salary increases to $129,211–$142,460 on 13 June 2025 and superannuation increases to 12% 1 July 2025.
* Applicants who consider their degree is equivalent to a Bachelor of Science may be asked to confirm and evidence equivalency from the issuing university. Applicants with an overseas qualification must submit a valid assessment from the Overseas Qualification Unit (OQU). For more information visit migration.wa.gov.au
For technical difficulties while applying online or information about the application process, please contact us for assistance on (08) 6364 6774 or at recruitment@dwer.wa.gov.au – email address not to be used for submission of applications.
Access Needs
We use the National Relay Service (NRS) to ensure we are accessible to people who are deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment. NRS can help you connect with us on:
- TTY/voice calls – 133 677
- Speak & Listen – 1300 555 727
- SMS relay – 0423 677 767
If you have any access needs that may require adjustment to allow you to fully participate in the application and interview process, including alternate methods of communication, or to request a document in an alternative format please contact us at recruitment@dwer.wa.gov.au or on (08) 6364 6774.
This process may be used to fill similar vacancies that may arise within DWER and across the WA public sector over the next twelve (12) months. Vacancies may be full-time or part-time, permanent or fixed term with possibility of extension or permanency in a variety of metropolitan and regional locations.
Applicants found suitable but not recommended for this vacancy may be considered for subsequent vacancies in accordance with Part 5 (General Appointment) of Commissioner's Instruction 2: Filling a Public Sector Vacancy.
CLOSING DATE: 4pm 06 June 2025 (Australian Western Standard Time)
Applications that are in progress or submitted after the closing time will not be accepted.
