Looking to take the lead and make a difference for the WA community and environment?
We are looking for a seasoned leader with extensive experience in both environmental impact assessments and stakeholder engagement to join the Environment Protection Authority Services directorate and play a key role in shaping the future of our state
Remuneration package of up to $272,138 per annum
*Remuneration is based on salary ($202,802), superannuation and attraction and retention incentive (ARI) payments. ARI payments are subject to periodic review and approval. The ARI payment is set to expire on 30 June 2027. Extension of the ARI payment beyond that term is subject to further government decision.
The Organisation
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 people 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 permanent full-time opportunity.
Come and join us as the Director, Major Project Assessments (MPA) in our Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) Services Directorate and lead the assessment of some of the most significant projects in Western Australia.
You will partner with the Executive Director EPA Services and lead teams of skilled professionals in the delivery of environmental Impact assessments (EIA) of the state’s major projects.
The Director, MPA is a trusted advisor to the Environmental Protection Authority (an independent authority) and Minister, providing high level strategic advice and expert analysis on environmental protection and government policy.
This role provides expert leadership, advice and judgements on EIAs for major projects and works with the EPA Services leadership team to provide innovative and strategic solutions to facilitate assessment of highly complex proposals with significant environmental impacts and achieve environmental protection outcomes.
The Director plays a key role in the ongoing capability development of staff and leads the continuous improvement of EIA practices for the EPA Services Directorate.
This role requires strong leadership, stakeholder engagement and relationship management at the executive level with proponents, government, industry and the community. Critical to making this role a success, will be an ability to align personal goals and passion with the values of the Department and motivate the team to do the same.
What We’re Looking For
This role is suited to experienced professionals from either the public or private sector. We welcome applications from individuals seeking to take the next step in their career and contribute to a role that makes a meaningful difference to the community of Western Australia.
To be successful, you will demonstrate:
- Proven experience in leading significant and innovative change in complex, resource-constrained environments.
- A strong track record of building cross-government and cross-sector commitment to shape policy and drive reform.
- Deep expertise in environmental science, sustainability, and regulatory frameworks.
- Exceptional leadership and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence and negotiate preferred outcomes.
- A history of motivating high-performing teams and delivering results in dynamic and challenging contexts.
For further information about the opportunity, we encourage you to contact Ben Oakley at Gather Recruitment on 0417 178 220 or via email ben.oakley@gatherrecruitment.com.au (email address not to be used for submission of applications)
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;
- Copy of your Bachelor of Science (degree and transcript) in an environmental related field
- A two (2) page cover letter outlining the key responsibilities and achievements you have had during your career with a focus on your ability to lead collectively and balance the interests of stakeholders.
- Two (2) referees (one preferred to be a current supervisor or recent manager)
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.
- As part of this selection for this process, DWER may use a variety of testing methods including video interviews, psychometric assessments and group testing.
- DWER may also conduct an executive search to further supplement the field.
- The selection criteria in the attached JDF will be assessed as part of the process.
- All the role-specific requirements and leadership behaviours in the attached JDF will be assessed as part of the process.
For technical difficulties while applying online or information about the application process, please contact us for assistance on (08) 6364 7800 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 7800.
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: Wednesday 17 September 2025 @ 5:00PM (Australian Western Standard Time)
Applications that are in progress or submitted after the closing time will not be accepted.
