New Opportunity: Chief Engineer - Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers (DLGWV)

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.

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.

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.