Chief Engineer

The Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers

About the Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers 

The Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers (DLGWV) drives sustainable growth across Queensland by empowering councils, managing water resources responsibly and supporting Queenslanders through personal, social and emotional recovery during disasters. The Department also supports the Minister on volunteering matters across the state. 

 DLGWV’s workforce of over 700 staff across more than 30 offices is committed to ensuring that Queensland’s communities, businesses and water resources are strong, resilient and thriving. 

Following its formation on 1 November 2024, DLGWV continues to deliver on Queensland Government priorities, with a strategic focus on sustainable growth, resource management and community resilience. 

About the Role | Chief Engineer 

The Chief Engineer is a senior executive leadership role responsible for providing high-level engineering and technical advice to government on the planning, assessment, and delivery of critical water infrastructure projects. The role ensures that projects meet legislative requirements, comply with safety standards and deliver long-term benefits to Queensland communities.  

Key Responsibilities: 

• Provide strategic and operational advice on water infrastructure developments and priorities
• Assess new project proposals for compliance with legislation, standards, codes and governance frameworks
• Advise on grant and funding considerations for large-scale infrastructure initiatives
• Provide expert technical advice on water infrastructure design (particularly dams and weirs) and construction methodology to government, Government Owned Corporations and other key stakeholders
• Foster collaboration and effective decision-making across the department and partner agencies.

About You 

The ideal candidate will be an accomplished engineering leader with extensive experience managing large-scale water infrastructure projects. They will bring a deep understanding of project governance, compliance requirements and a commitment to sustainable development outcomes. 

Key Attributes: 

• A Bachelor’s Degree (or higher) in Civil Engineering (mandatory)
• Registration as a Professional Engineer in Queensland (mandatory)
• Over 20 years’ experience planning, designing, and delivering major water infrastructure projects
• Strong leadership and advisory skills, particularly at executive and ministerial levels
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and consultative decision-making capabilities
• (Desirable) Knowledge of Queensland’s legislative framework for water supply infrastructure.

Application

DLGWV is committed to building a workforce that truly represents the diverse communities it serves. Applicants from all backgrounds — including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, culturally and linguistically diverse individuals, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community — are strongly encouraged to apply. 

If you are passionate about making a difference and bringing your authentic self to work, DLGWV would love to hear from you. 

How to Apply

For confidential enquiries please contact, Gerard Kerr, General Manager, Executive Search and Selection, Kingston Human Capital on 0432 544 444 or via email gerard@kingstonhumancapital.com.au

To be considered for this pivotal role, please provide the following information for assessment of your suitability:

• Your current resume
• A maximum two-page cover letter addressing your suitability for the position.