Research Scientist (Hydrology) / Senior Research Scientist (Hydrology)

Ecosystem Science; Town of Kensington; On-site; CAD 103,000 - 132,000; Full time

Job summary

The Environmental Research Department in Kensington is seeking a Research Scientist (Hydrology) or Senior Research Scientist (Hydrology) to conduct research on water processes and biodiversity conservation. The role demands a relevant degree, strong hydrology knowledge, and experience in research publication. Candidates should possess excellent skills in research design and stakeholder engagement. The position offers an attractive salary starting from $112,266 plus benefits, with a focus on environmental management outcomes.

Benefits

Flexible working arrangements

12% superannuation

4 weeks annual leave

Cultural leave for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff

Access to studies and counselling services

Annual National Park Entry Pass

Free staff parking

Qualifications

• Degree or equivalent qualification in relevant discipline is essential.
• Sound knowledge of hydrology and its application is necessary.
• Experience in hydrological research and environmental modeling is needed.
• Ability to publish research findings in academic journals is important.
• Strong interpersonal skills and collaborative research experience add value.
• Record of liaising with stakeholders to inform policy or practice is essential.

Responsibilities

• Undertake scientific research into surface water and groundwater processes.
• Communicate research results via publications and presentations.
• Develop collaborations and seek funding for hydrological research.

Skills

Knowledge of hydrology

Research design

Statistical analysis

Interpersonal skills

Education

Degree in environmental engineering, civil engineering, or relevant discipline

Job description

Biodiversity and Conservation Science Research Scientist (Hydrology) / Senior Research Scientist (Hydrology) DBCA3082323 PSCA, Specified Calling Level 2 or 3, $112,266 - $123,008 or $129,211 - $142,460 plus 12% Superannuation

Join us in our mission to promote biodiversity, conserve our valuable ecosystems, and provide engaging attractions that connect people with nature.

THIS IS A PERMANENT, FULL-TIME POSITION

THIS POSITION IS BASED IN KENSINGTON

APPLICATIONS FOR THIS POSITION CLOSE AT

MIDDAY ON TUESDAY, 16 DECEMBER 2025

Applied research undertaken by the Ecosystem Science Program seeks to understand the environmental, ecological and biogeochemical processes that determine the conservation values, health and productivity of the lands and inland waters managed by the department.

We are currently seeking a Research Scientist (Hydrology) or a Senior Research Scientist (Hydrology) to join our team.

The position undertakes scientific research into surface water and groundwater processes and their interactions with the biosphere to inform the conservation of ecosystems and species across Western Australia and communicates the results of research via publications in national and international peer reviewed scientific literature, technical reports, popular articles, public media and presentations for scientific and non‑scientific audiences. The position develops internal and external collaborations, seeking funding where necessary, to further knowledge of hydrological processes and their interactions.

At DBCA, we have adopted which provides a common understanding of the mindsets and expected behaviours required of all our employees and the public sector. In this role, you will be to help drive positive change.

Selection Criteria

Applicants should address the following six (6) Essential criteria. These should be addressed in no more than ten (10) pages in total.

Note: For this role, hydrological science includes study of water balance, hydrological processes such as groundwater, surface water, unsaturated and evapotranspiration processes and interactions with biology and geochemistry.

• Degree or approved equivalent qualification or experience (ESSENTIAL) and post graduate qualification (DESIRABLE) in a relevant discipline (environmental engineering, civil engineering, environmental science, physical geography).
• Sound knowledge (SC2) or comprehensive knowledge (SC3) of the science of hydrology and its application to biodiversity conservation and environmental assessment.
• Experience (SC2) or extensive experience (SC3) in designing and undertaking hydrological research in a discipline relevant to hydrological science, including experimental design, data collection, complex statistical analysis and environmental modelling.
• Demonstrated (SC2) or advanced (SC3) ability to publish research findings in a timely manner in national and international scientific journals.
• Demonstrated (SC2) or high level (SC3) interpersonal skills and track record (SC2) or extensive track record (SC3) of working in research teams and engaging in collaborative research.
• Proven (SC2) or extensive (SC3) record of liaising with internal and external stakeholders to achieve environmental management outcomes (SC2) and inform policy or practice (SC3).

About Us

DBCA, one of Western Australia's largest state government agencies, providing exciting and challenging career opportunities in biodiversity conservation and park and natural resource management. We employ people with world‑class scientific, policy, land and marine management, visitor services, research and educational skills.

For more information on what we do, our recruitment process, and why working at DBCA is an attractive proposition, please visit our .

Benefits of working with us

In addition to the attractive salary and opportunities to contribute to biodiversity and environmental conservation initiatives, the department offers incentives including :

• Flexible working arrangements.
• 12% superannuation, full employer contribution and salary packaging options.
• 4 weeks annual leave with loading paid as additional pay every December.
• 3 days additional public sector holidays each year
• Cultural leave for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff.
• Access to study, bereavement, foster caring and parental leave.
• A confidential employee assistant program (EAP) for you and your family, including psychology and counselling services.
• An annual National Park Entry Pass.
• Well‑established learning and development programs.
• Free staff parking.