Senior Scientist, Cultural and Spatial (Targeted) | 552628

Do you want your work to make a difference for NSW?

Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage.

• Aboriginal targeted position
• Protect Aboriginal cultural values through science and innovation.
• Temporary part-time (21 hours per week) opportunity up to 30 June 2026
• Parramatta office location upon negotiation across NSW, hybrid working supported
• Salary relative to experience and ranges from $128,052 to $142,649 pa, pro rata + super

Our Applied bushfire science program is seeking to appoint a Senior Scientist, Cultural and Spatial (targeted) to lead applied scientific research and spatial analysis that strengthens Aboriginal cultural resilience and informs evidence-based fire management across NSW. This is a unique opportunity to combine cultural and spatial science expertise to support healthy Country, protect Aboriginal cultural values and contribute to innovative bushfire risk management approaches.

Working within the Fire and Cultural Science team, you will lead and deliver complex research projects, develop spatial tools and methodologies, and apply GIS analysis and modelling to support fire management planning and decision-making. You will work closely with First Nations communities, government agencies, researchers and land managers to identify priority knowledge gaps, translate scientific evidence into practical outcomes, and strengthen the integration of cultural values into bushfire management. Joining a highly collaborative and purpose-driven team, you will help shape innovative, science-based solutions that deliver better outcomes for Country and communities across NSW.

About You
You are an experienced scientist with strong expertise in spatial science, GIS analysis, applied research and environmental or fire management programs. You have a proven ability to lead complex projects, synthesise scientific evidence and translate technical information into practical advice that informs policy, planning and on-ground decision-making for government and Aboriginal communities. Your analytical thinking, project management capabilities and commitment to scientific rigour enable you to deliver high-quality outcomes in complex and evolving environments.

You are a skilled communicator and relationship builder who works effectively across diverse stakeholder groups. You bring experience developing respectful partnerships with First Nations communities and value the contribution of different knowledge systems to improve outcomes. With strong judgement, resilience and collaboration skills, you can navigate competing priorities, influence outcomes and build consensus while maintaining a focus on delivering meaningful environmental and cultural outcomes for NSW.

Essential Requirements

• Relevant science degree qualification.
  

For more information read the full Role Description: Senior Scientist, Cultural and Spatial and the Statement of Works

About the Team – Science & Insights
Science & Insights sits within the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW), which works to protect the state’s environment and heritage while driving a sustainable future for NSW.

Working at the intersection of science, policy and delivery, Science & Insights collaborates across government, academia, industry and communities to identify priority issues and deliver practical, high-impact solutions.

The division brings together six specialist branches spanning conservation and restoration, climate and atmospheric science, environmental protection, remote sensing and landscape science, science impact and assessment, and water, wetlands and coastal science.

Together, these teams provide the evidence, expertise and insights needed to understand NSW’s environment, manage risks and drive sustainable outcomes.

The division’s work is focused on building a strong evidence base, advancing innovation in how data is gathered and used, and translating complex scientific information into clear, actionable insights and advice. Through scientific rigour, partnerships and knowledge sharing, Science & Insights plays a critical role in protecting, restoring and strengthening the resilience of NSW’s environment for future generations.

Who we are
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) works to protect the state’s 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 state’s 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.

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.

Please note to be eligible to apply for this position you must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, or hold a valid Australian working Visa for the duration of the appointment.

Applications close Sunday, 18 October 2026 at 11:55PM.

Should you require further information about the role please contact Greg Summerell on Gregory.summerell@dcceew.nsw.gov.au or via 0427907213.

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 dcceew.ta@dpie.nsw.gov.au or contacting Alexandra Blair on02 8275 1761 (please mention reference number 552628).

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 AEX@dcceew.nsw.gov.au for a yarn.

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Role Description