Senior Sustainability Officer

Senior Sustainability Officer

Requisition Number: 1213

Salary Range: $102,167.42 - $110,382.66 per annum

Position Type: Full Time Permanent

Location: Council Chambers, 119 – 145 Spence Street, Cairns

Application Close Date: Sunday, 2 August 2026 at 11.30pm AEST

Shape the future of sustainability and climate resilience in one of Australia's most unique and environmentally significant regions

We have an exciting opportunity for a Senior Sustainability Officer to join our team!

What You Will Do:

As the Senior Sustainability Officer, you will provide high-level professional leadership in sustainability, environmental management, climate risk and organisational resilience. You will play a pivotal role in shaping Council's strategic direction by developing policies, frameworks and programs that support informed planning, sound decision-making and sustainable service delivery.

Working across the organisation, you will identify and assess environmental and climate-related risks and opportunities, translating complex technical and scientific information into practical advice for senior leaders. You will lead significant sustainability and resilience projects, foster strong partnerships with internal and external stakeholders, and champion innovative approaches that strengthen Council's environmental performance and community resilience.

What We Are Looking For:

• Degree in sustainability, environmental science / management, climate change, public policy, planning or a related discipline.
• Substantial professional experience in sustainability, environmental or climate policy, risk or resilience roles within government or complex organisations.
• Demonstrated experience contributing to or leading policy, strategy, framework or program development and implementation.
• Strong project and program management skills, including delivery of complex projects.
• Highly developed written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prepare clear, persuasive reports, briefings and professional advice for a range of stakeholders, including senior leaders.
• Demonstrated experience managing complex stakeholder environments and negotiating effective outcomes on strategic sustainability or climate related issues.

This is a unique opportunity to influence policy, drive strategic programs, and help build a more resilient Cairns by integrating sustainability, climate risk and resilience into Council planning, decision-making and operations.

Some benefits we offer:

• Achieve work / life balance with flexible working arrangements
• Fitness Passport - subsidised health and well-being memberships (gym/swimming pool)
• Recharge with up to 5 weeks annual leave
• Up to 3 weeks personal leave
• Relocation assistance may be available for preferred candidates.
• Salary sacrifice opportunities
• Grow personally and professionally with learning and development opportunities
• Cherish family time with up to 14 weeks paid parental leave

We are committed to:

• Fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment
• Embracing innovation and continuous improvement
• Cultivating a culture of professional growth and support

Now we want to hear about YOU!

Applications MUST be submitted online through the 'Apply' button and include a Cover Letter addressing the selection criteria and Resume outlining previous academic and work experience and if requested include attachments of the relevant qualifications and licenses, relating to the role.

For further information about this role please download the Position Description which includes the Key Duties, Responsibilities and Selection Criteria.

Council’s Recruitment Team can be contacted via:

Phone: (07) 4044 3310

Email: jobs@cairns.qld.gov.au

Website: Employment at Council | Cairns Regional Council