Exploration Assessment Officer

Department for Energy and Mining; Adelaide; Hybrid; AUD 88,000 - 102,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible Work Arrangements

Hybrid working options

Prime location in Adelaide CBD

Employee Assistance Program

Diversity and inclusion initiatives

White Ribbon Accredited

Job summary

The Department for Energy and Mining in Adelaide is inviting applications for an Exploration Assessment Officer (PO2) to regulate mineral exploration assessments and programs under SA law. The role provides environmental impact assessment expertise, engages with proponents, agencies and communities, and helps drive continuous regulatory improvements.

It offers flexible work arrangements, a prime Adelaide CBD location, and a commitment to safety, diversity and inclusion.

Qualifications

• Essential: Degree in Science, Environmental Management or Engineering related to the resources industry.
• Experience applying legislation and regulatory frameworks.
• Strong written and verbal communication, stakeholder engagement.

Responsibilities

• Manage assessments of mineral exploration applications and programs in accordance with legislation and regulatory frameworks.
• Coordinate and progress assessment processes through to completion with proponents and government agencies.
• Assess environmental and social impacts and prepare recommendations for decision makers.
• Provide technical advice on environmental impact assessment and regulatory processes.
• Contribute to compliance monitoring activities and regulatory initiatives.
• Assist in development and continuous improvement of policies, procedures and internal systems.
• Build productive relationships with industry, government stakeholders and community representatives.
• Support other legislated assessment processes as required.

Job description

The Department for Energy and Mining is committed to building a diverse and flexible culture. We encourage and welcome all applications from women, diverse community groups and ages, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and people with disabilities.

About the opportunity:

An exciting opportunity has become available for an Exploration Assessment Officer (PO2) to join the Exploration Regulation team within the Minerals Regulation branch. This role is responsible for managing the assessment of applications and programs associated with South Australia's mineral resources sector, ensuring decisions are informed, robust and aligned with legislative requirements. The role provides environmental impact assessment expertise, works collaboratively with industry, government agencies and community stakeholders, and contributes to continuous improvement initiatives that support efficient, effective and contemporary regulatory services.

About us:

The Department for Energy and Mining (DEM) supports a strong energy and mining sector powering growth and opportunity for South Australia. We lead the responsible development of the state's mineral and energy resources, expanding knowledge of South Australia's geological and energy potential, driving industrial transformation, attracting investment, delivering major projects critical to the state's economic future, and unlocking opportunities for industry, consumers and communities. Leading regulation, together with innovative policies and programs underpin industry performance, technical and safety standards, and environmental outcomes, building confidence among industry and community. We particularly acknowledge the essential role that traditional Aboriginal people play in the energy and mining sector as land managers, heritage custodians, business owners and community leaders. The Regulation and Compliance division delivers effective regulation to support the safe, responsible and sustainable development of South Australia's energy and mineral resources and infrastructure networks. It manages tenure, oversees activities across the project lifecycle, and regulates technical and safety standards, protecting the community and environment.

The Minerals Regulation branch regulates the safe and sustainable exploration, development and extraction of the state's mineral resources, including mine and quarry operations.

What we offer:

• Enjoy opportunities for professional development, training, and career growth.
• Be part of a values-driven organisation committed to excellence, safety, and integrity.
• Flexible Work Arrangements with options for hybrid working and flexible hours.
• Prime Location: Adelaide CBD, Market Square, adjacent to the iconic Adelaide Central Market and close to public transport, shops and amenities
• Active People and Culture agenda including Employee Assistance Program, diversity and inclusion initiatives, DEM Social Club and more.
• We are a White Ribbon Accredited workplace that promotes gender equality and a zero tolerance of violence in the workplace.

Key Duties:

• Manage assessments of mineral exploration applications and programs in accordance with relevant legislation, policies and regulatory frameworks.
• Coordinate and progress assessment processes through to completion, including engagement with proponents, stakeholders and government agencies.
• Assess environmental and social impacts associated with exploration and mining proposals and prepare recommendations for decision makers.
• Provide technical advice and support relating to environmental impact assessment and regulatory processes.
• Contribute to compliance monitoring activities and regulatory initiatives.
• Assist in the development and continuous improvement of policies, procedures, guidelines and internal systems.
• Build productive relationships with industry, government stakeholders and community representatives.
• Support other legislated assessment processes administered by the Department where required.

Key Selection Criteria:

• Demonstrated experience working with and applying legislation.
• Knowledge of environmental impact assessments and their application within the resources sector.
• Demonstrated ability to build productive working relationships and collaborate effectively with a range of stakeholders.
• Well-developed communication skills, with the ability to communicate clearly and effectively both verbally and in writing.

Qualifications:

Essential: Degree in Science, Environmental Management or Engineering related to the resources industry.

Remuneration:

PO2 Classification $88,255 to $102,240 per annum (plus superannuation) Full-time role, working 37.5 hours per week.

Special Conditions:

• Some out of hours work and inter/intrastate travel may be required.
• Position based in Adelaide.
• Current South Australian driver's licence required.
• Appointment is subject to a satisfactory National Police Clearance.
• Flexible working arrangements are available and negotiated with the appropriate manager.

Enquiries:

Sybille McPhail Team Leader, Exploration Regulation [emailprotected]