Senior Sustainability Advisor
Energy & Utilities | Australia & New Zealand
Location: Melbourne
The opportunity
Downer is seeking a Senior Sustainability Advisor to provide specialist sustainability and decarbonisation expertise across the Energy & Utilities Business Unit. Reporting to the Sustainability & Environment Director, this role will be instrumental in embedding sustainability, emissions management, and climate-related initiatives across operations, projects and pre-contract activities.
You will act as the primary sustainability subject matter expert, leading GHG emissions accounting, carbon modelling, and performance analytics, while supporting the development and implementation of Energy & Utilities-specific Sustainability Strategies and Tactical Plans. This role plays a critical part in ensuring Downer meets its climate commitments, regulatory obligations, and client sustainability expectations.
What you'll do
* Lead the delivery of sustainability and decarbonisation initiatives across operations and projects, including development of Project Sustainability Scorecards, KPIs and reporting dashboards
* Manage GHG emissions accounting and emissions data validation in accordance with NGER and internal governance requirements
* Provide specialist sustainability support for bids, tenders and operational decision-making, embedding sustainability rating schemes (e.g. ISC), decarbonisation KPIs and ESG principles into delivery
* Drive sustainable procurement and Scope 3 emissions considerations, collaborating with procurement and supply chain teams
* Support continuous improvement by monitoring emerging sustainability legislation, market trends, and client expectations
What we offer
* The opportunity to influence major infrastructure, energy and utilities projects of national significance
* A high-impact technical leadership role within a supportive team and collaborative environment
* Flexible work arrangements and wellbeing programs
* Career development and leadership pathways within the Energy & Utilities Business Unit and the broader Downer Group
* Employee benefits including retail, travel and fitness discounts, and salary sacrifice superannuation options
* Inclusive workplace initiatives and Employee Assistance Program
What we're looking for
You are a technical sustainability professional with deep expertise in decarbonisation, emissions management and project-level sustainability performance. You are confident advising operational and leadership teams, can interpret complex data, and translate sustainability frameworks into practical business solutions.
We bring
* Tertiary qualifications in Sustainability, Climate Change, Environmental Science, Engineering or a related discipline
* Demonstrated experience in sustainability, decarbonisation or climate-related roles within infrastructure, energy, utilities or construction
* Proven experience managing GHG emissions reporting, sustainability dashboards and performance metrics
* Experience integrating sustainability frameworks and ratings tools (e.g. IS Rating, Green Star) into projects or bids
* Strong analytical and technical skills, including carbon modelling, forecasting and lifecycle emissions assessment
* Ability to provide credible technical advice and influence stakeholders across projects, operational teams and leadership
* Strong written communication skills for reports, dashboards, business cases, and knowledge-sharing materials
Desirable
* ISAP and/or Green Star Accreditation
* Experience with sustainability reporting platforms (e.g., IBM Envizi)
* Knowledge of Net Zero strategies, change management and sustainable procurement practices
About Energy & Utilities
Downer's Energy & Utilities business unit is an integrated trans-Tasman team delivering essential services across water, electricity, telecommunications, industrial and power generation sectors. We design, build, operate and maintain critical networks and assets, leveraging in-house technical expertise, specialist engineering teams, and dedicated tradespeople.
Downer is an inclusive employer, embracing diverse experiences, talents, and cultures, and we welcome applications from everyone.
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