Head of Climate
About the role
As the Head of Climate at Yarra Ranges Council, you will shape the future by driving climate action and championing sustainability across one of Victoria’s most diverse regions. In this strategic leadership role, you’ll lead transformative projects that reduce emissions, build resilience, and deliver bold environmental strategies, while collaborating with passionate experts and community partners. Your ability to inspire, innovate, and influence will ensure measurable outcomes that protect our environment and create a thriving future for generations to come.
This is a full-time permanent position (38 hours per week).
This is a Band 8 role with a salary range between $128,554 and $144,045 per annum, plus superannuation.
Benefits of working with us:
- Support work-life balance with your choice of a monthly rostered day off and hybrid working arrangements.
- 20 weeks paid primary caregiver leave (6 weeks for secondary caregivers) plus other generous leave options such as volunteer leave, family planning, study assistance and menstrual and menopause leave.
- Opportunities for professional development and to take on temporary roles in other teams to grow your skills and experience.
- Novated lease vehicle options.
Experience and skills we’re looking for
- A proven leader with experience in climate policy, sustainability, or environmental strategy.
- Strong stakeholder engagement skills, you can inspire, influence, and collaborate.
- Driving delivery of the Liveable Climate Plan and Energy Transition Plan.
- Overseeing emissions reporting, annual sustainability reporting, and strategic risk management.
- Developing and reviewing strategies, initiatives, and policies to achieve climate objectives.
- Promoting a collaborative, innovative, and high-performing culture.
- Innovative thinking and a results-driven approach to complex challenges.
- A passion for creating a sustainable future for generations to come.
- The role requires extensive experience and tertiary qualifications in climate or environmental science, sustainability, natural resource management, or a related field. Similar qualifications will also be considered.
- The ability to inspire high levels of unit performance by communicating and modelling the organisation’s vision and values, focusing on developing people and leadership, a positive organisation culture and continuous improvement.
- Great organisational and interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate confidently with diverse customers.
If you have some but not all these skills or experience, we still encourage you to apply. Especially if you have the right attitude and willingness to learn.
How to apply
Please ensure you submit your application via our jobs portal by clicking ‘Apply’. Include a resume and cover letter with your application. In your cover letter, tell us about your experience, skills, and why you would like to work with us here at Yarra Ranges Council.
Applications close 11.59pm, Sunday 31 January 2026
Contact person: Corinne Bowen, Manager Resilient Environment, 03 9294 6308
If you need support with your application or have accessibility needs, please call the contact person above or email us at careers@yarraranges.vic.gov.au.
Applicants who progress past the interview stage must complete pre-employment checks. These checks will include a Police Check and Working with Children Check.
About Yarra Ranges Council
Yarra Ranges Council committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is welcome. We encourage people of all genders, cultures, backgrounds, and abilities to apply for jobs with us. We support flexible work arrangements, including full-time, part-time, hybrid, and job-sharing options to meet your needs and suit your life.
Yarra Ranges Council is a child safe organisation and is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people in our community. We are committed to protecting children from abuse in accordance with the Victorian Child Safe Standards.