Do you want your work to make a difference for NSW?
Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage.

• Temporary full-time opportunity to 30 June 2028
• Office location upon negotiation across NSW, hybrid working supported
• Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $162,296 to $165,865 + super

The Water Group leads the NSW Government in providing confidence to communities and stakeholders with the transparent stewardship of water resources, provision of services and reforms that support sustainable and healthy environments, economies and societies across NSW.

The Floodplain Assessments team are seeking to appoint a Principal Water Modeller in a full-time temporary capacity to 30 June 2028, with the chance of further extension.

About You

Lead specialist technical expertise in hydraulic modelling and floodplain management, knowledge and guidance to build team capability and ensure high quality outcomes.

• Deliver expert modelling and analysis – Lead the design, development and application of hydraulic and hydrologic models, applying statistical and simulation techniques to support water policy, planning proposals, floodplain management and resource allocation.
• Provide specialist advice and guidance – Offer high-level technical expertise on hydrology, catchment processes, and surface water modelling to inform best-practice water management strategies, plans and policies.
• Lead projects and build capability – Manage project teams, coordinate resources, embed robust management systems, and mentor staff to enhance modelling capability and deliver multi-disciplinary outputs.
• Promote best practice and representation – Drive innovation in modelling tools and data use, profile water usage and infrastructure proposals, and represent the Department in industry, academic and government forums.

Knowledge & Experience

• Expertise in hydraulic modelling, particularly using TUFLOW software.
• Additional knowledge and experience in one or more of the following hydrologic disciplines: water resources management modelling, catchment process modelling, statistics, computer programming, application of spatial modelling.
• Experience in assessing the suitability of hydraulic model outputs for natural resource management requirements.
• Proven ability to evaluate complex scientific and hydrological investigations, data and research to determine validity and rigor in the context of water resource management.

Essential Requirements

• Degree in hydrology, hydraulic engineering, natural resources, relevant applied sciences or related discipline.
• Intra-state travel may be required from time to time.
• NSW Class C Driver licence.

For more information read the full Role Description: Principal Water Modeller

Who we are

The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) works to protect the state’s environment and heritage. It leads the way on climate change, driving the sustainable transition to a net zero economy, powered by affordable, reliable, and clean energy.

DCCEEW conserves and protects the state’s natural environment. It manages the NSW national park estate, including its rich and diverse biodiversity and Aboriginal cultural heritage for future generations.

DCCEEW also ensures sustainable management of water resources across the state, to support the environment, communities and industry.

We acknowledge the ongoing custodial responsibilities of the Aboriginal peoples of NSW to care for Country and water and are committed to establishing meaningful partnerships with Aboriginal peoples in the management of the environment.

To Apply

If excited by the information above, we look forward to receiving your application, including a copy of your resume and cover letter expressing your interest and suitability for the role.

Applications close Tuesday 30 September 2026 at 11:55PM.

Should you require further information about the role please contact Matthew Russell via [email protected].

A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary opportunities of the same role or role type that may become available over the next 18 months.

Our goal is to build a workforce that not only represents but also understands and serves the diverse communities of New South Wales. We are committed to making our state a vibrant and inclusive place to live, work, and thrive for everyone. Our workforce represents people of all ages and genders, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disabilities, the LGBTQI+ community, and people from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

Looking for more information or assistance in applying?

• Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace.
• How we encourage and support people with disability
• Information and adjustments for individual needs for the recruitment process and the workplace.

If you require an adjustment for your application process, please contact our Talent Acquisition Team by emailing [email protected] or contacting Ty Brennock on [email protected] (please mention reference number 544999).

If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander use our Guide for Aboriginal Applicants to assist with applying for roles or contact our Aboriginal Career pathways team for a yarn.

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