The North West region is calling – Join us in making a difference
Help us shape Western Australia's future
At the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER), we're not just hiring, we're looking for people to help us shape Western Australia's future.
We support Western Australia's community, economy and environment by managing and regulating the State's environment and water resources, playing a critical role in delivering on government priorities supporting sustainable development, protecting our environment, and securing our water future.
The Opportunities:
THESE OPPORTUNITIES ARE IDEALLY BASED IN KUNUNURRA.
This recruitment pool presents a unique opportunity to join the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER) in two strategic leadership roles and an integral Senior Officer role. These roles are central to delivering environmental and water resource outcomes across Western Australia's northern regions. Ideally based in
Kununurra,
a vibrant and diverse community in the East Kimberley, your work will have direct and lasting impact. However, we understand that the best candidates may be located elsewhere, and we are open to appointing individuals in
Karratha
or
Joondalup
if they bring the right experience and/or leadership qualities.
* District Manager (Level 7)
This senior leadership role offers strategic oversight across the North West region, contributing to the delivery of environmental and water resource management outcomes. As a member of the Regional Executive Team, the District Manager leads regional planning, coordinates complex projects, and drives performance across multiple workstreams.
The role manages a multidisciplinary team and represents the department in high-level forums, engaging with Traditional Owners, community groups, and industry stakeholders. It also supports executive decision-making and plays a key role in aligning regional initiatives with broader departmental priorities. This is a role for a strategic thinker and collaborative leader who thrives in complex, multi-stakeholder environments and is committed to making a lasting impact.
* Program Manager (Level 6)
This leadership role is responsible for managing water licensing, allocation planning, and land use advice in one of Western Australia's most ecologically and culturally significant regions.
The Program Manager leads a team across hybrid locations and ensures integrated delivery of regulatory services. The role involves regular travel, stakeholder engagement, and collaboration with Traditional Owners, government agencies, and community partners. It requires strong analytical and leadership skills, a deep understanding of natural resource management, and the ability to deliver outcomes that support both environmental protection and regional development. This is an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the sustainability and resilience of the Kimberley and Pilbara as part of the North West team.
* Senior Natural Resource Management Officer (Level 5)
The Senior Natural Resource Management Officer (SNRMO) role is a pivotal leadership position, driving the management of complex and high-risk water licensing projects while shaping the future of sustainable resource management in the Northwest.
This role not only delivers technical expertise but also empowers junior officers through targeted training and guidance. It oversees the North West region's water licensing backlog program, implements strategic solutions, and ensures accurate reporting to the Program Manager. Responsibilities include reviewing natural resource management activities, contributing to interdisciplinary teams, and resolving challenging issues through innovative, practical solutions.
The position also champions collaboration to achieve regional goals; represents the region in stakeholder negotiations; and upholds compliance with legislation and departmental values. Building strong relationships, promoting equity, diversity, inclusion, and maintaining ethical standards are integral to this role.
At DWER, we see every employee as a leader. This belief drives our success. To support this, we have established clear
Leadership Expectations
.
For the
Level 7
and
Level 6
roles, you will be
Leading Leaders
.
Demonstrating the expected behaviours is crucial and aligned with the role's requirements.
As a Senior Natural Resource Management Officer
Level 5
, you will be a
Personal Leader
.
The Personal Leadership context is about the work of individuals not yet in traditional leadership positions, who make a direct and immediate difference to the agency.
At the Department, we are committed to fostering a modern workplace that supports flexibility, collaboration and wellbeing. Our flexible work arrangements include options for alternative work locations and adaptable schedules, designed to accommodate a variety of professional and personal needs. We recognise that effective work can happen in different settings, and our approach reflects this, enabling staff to contribute meaningfully while maintaining balance and resilience.
For further information about the opportunity, we encourage you to contact
Susie Williams, Regional Director – North West Region
on
CLOSING DATE: 4pm Tuesday 24 February 2026 (Australian Western Standard Time)
Applications that are in progress or submitted after the closing time will not be accepted.