Environment and Conservation Manager

Ipswich City Council seeks an Environment and Conservation Manager to lead the Natural Environment Branch. Responsibilities include developing and implementing the Natural Environment Strategy, managing budgets, and collaborating with other council departments. Candidates should have a relevant degree, senior-level experience in environmental management, and team leadership skills. The role emphasizes strategic direction and environmental improvements, offering a supportive workplace culture and opportunities for professional growth.
About the role

As the Environment and Conservation Manager you will be a senior leader in the Natural Environment Branch and head up a diverse and driven team responsible for developing and delivering on Council’s key natural environment strategy and waterway health programs driving environmental improvements across council. The section includes:
• The Environment Advisory team leading Council's internal best practice and compliance as part of its BAU regarding Environmental and Cultural Heritage requirements
• The delivery of the Urban Rivers Program
• Partnership programs with the likes of SEQ Council of Mayors and local catchment and NRM groups

We are looking for someone with the ability to set strong strategic direction and who can facilitate and empower your team to deliver changes and leave the legacy that they and you and the city of Ipswich can be proud of.

Some of your key responsibilities will include:
• Develop, deliver implementation plans and report on the Natural Environment Strategy
• Lead the development and delivery of a budget which includes operational and capital funding for ground works, planning, and strategy
• Collaborate with other areas of council such as Planning and Regulatory Services and Asset and Infrastructure Services to guide and advise on environmental matters and help set corporate goals and expectations in regard to environmental and catchment management outcomes
• Assist and guide in the development and improvement of a council wide environmental management system
• Assist and guide the implementation and delivery of the recently endorsed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Engagement Guide where it pertains to the work of the Environment and Sustainability Department

View the position description for more details about the role.

About you

To be successful in this role you will have:
• Degree in Environmental Management, Natural Resource Management, Catchment Management, or similar
• Minimum three (3) years’ experience at a senior level in environmental management, natural resource management, or catchment management (or a similar transferable field)
• Minimum three (3) years’ experience leading or managing a team or teams
• Management of senior officers and technical experts including engineers
• Project management experience managing medium to large strategic projects and programs
• Experience managing and effectively delivering on operational and capital budgets and portfolios
• Enthusiasm, resilience, passion, patience, wisdom, team focused, and environmentally inclined
• Belief in our values of communication, collaboration, integrity, efficiency, and leadership

About the benefits

This is a fixed-term contract with an attractive remuneration package that includes 12.5% superannuation and leave loading.
• Positive workplace culture: Be part of a team that values positivity, inclusivity, and a supportive environment where everyone can thrive
• Work/Life balance: Enjoy a supportive approach to work/life balance to maintain your well-being while fulfilling your work ambitions
• Diversity and inclusion: Work with a diverse workforce where different ideas and perspectives lead to innovation and better decision making
• Learning and development: Experience ongoing learning, development, and career opportunities to enhance your skills, expertise, and knowledge of industry trends
• Health and well-being: Access to gym memberships, employee assistance program, and special events supporting your physical and mental health
• Leave options: Annual leave with 17.5% leave loading, cultural leave, and other leave options
• Salary packaging: Tailor a variety of salary packaging options to your needs such as financial advice, income protection

About us

Ipswich is a dynamic blend of rich heritage, proud communities, diverse landscapes, and a lively energy all contributing to a region full of liveability and opportunity. It is the state’s fastest growing city and one of the oldest provincial cities.

Ipswich City Council contributes to our vibrant and growing region with teams operating across various industries delivering services to the community and creating our vision:

‘Ipswich, a city of opportunity for all. Join us.'

We have a workplace culture built on our values of communication, collaboration, integrity, efficiency, and leadership. Come and join us in shaping the future of the city and its people.

Join us

If you share our values and are passionate about enhancing the quality of our environment and by extension the quality of life for the Ipswich community, then this could be the role for you.

Please apply online and submit:
• A cover letter of no more than 2 pages describing how your skills and experience will assist in meeting the requirements of this role
• A resume of no more than 4 pages including current licences/tickets/qualifications/certificates/visa that you hold

Closing date: 15 June 2025

Please direct any related questions to careers@ipswich.qld.gov.au.

Pre-employment screening: Successful applicants must agree to provide information for pre-employment screening including referee checks, validation of eligibility to work in Australia, criminal history check and may include health assessments, validation of qualifications and licences and other screening checks.

Ipswich City Council is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer: We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace by supporting equal opportunities regardless of gender, culture, generation, sexual orientation, or disability. We promote a respectful workplace culture that is free from all forms of harassment, workplace bullying, discrimination, and violence.