Sustainability Engagement Specialist Role
This role presents an exceptional opportunity to contribute significantly to the region's transition toward sustainable wine production. As a key member of our team, you will play a pivotal part in supporting local wine producers in adopting best-practice sustainability methods and achieving certification through renowned programs.
The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in sustainability within agriculture or the wine industry, complemented by excellent communication and relationship-building abilities. Strong workshop facilitation and adult education skills are also essential, as is a current driver's license and willingness to travel across the region.
We are seeking a passionate and proactive individual who is committed to helping growers and winemakers adopt sustainable practices. If you have a tertiary qualification in viticulture, oenology, environmental science, sustainability, or a related field, and a minimum of 3 years' experience in a similar role, we encourage you to apply.
Key Responsibilities:
* Sustainability Certification Support: Assist wine businesses to enroll in the SWA program, provide guidance on Sustainability Action Plans and Freshcare AWISSP audit requirements, support producers with pre-audit preparation and ongoing compliance.
* Capacity Building & Education: Deliver at least two technical workshops each year, produce case studies showcasing best-practice sustainability in the region, provide one-on-one consultations with vineyards and wineries, coordinate field days and demonstration activities.
* Regional Program Delivery: Support the implementation of WAWSAP activities, including biodiversity assessments and climate resilience approaches, work with NRM partners on water security and biodiversity initiatives, facilitate access to natural capital and sustainability pathways.
* Data Collection & Reporting: Track certification progress and regional adoption of sustainability practices, contribute to quarterly newsletters and annual sustainability reporting, manage data aligned with the resilience capitals framework.
* Stakeholder Engagement: Represent us in statewide sustainability working groups, build strong relationships with producers, government agencies, researchers, and industry bodies, advocate for local businesses in sustainability program development.
Benefits:
* A flexible, home-based contractor role with regular travel across the region.
* Quarterly performance reviews; potential for annual renewal based on funding and performance.
To be successful in this role, you will require:
* Tertiary qualification in viticulture, oenology, environmental science, sustainability, or a related field.
* Minimum 3 years' experience in sustainability within agriculture or the wine industry.
* Strong workshop facilitation and adult education skills.
* Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities.
* Knowledge of sustainability certification systems (preferably SWA or Freshcare AWISSP).
* Current driver's license and willingness to travel across the region.
* Ability to work independently and manage a flexible workload.
* Certificate IV in Training & Assessment.
* Experience in project coordination and data analysis.
* Existing networks within the wine industry.
* Understanding of climate adaptation and carbon accounting.
* Experience working with government, NRM groups, or industry associations.