Senior Biodiversity

• Be a key player in preserving Shellharbour's unique biodiversity and natural resources.
• Lead environmental assessments and provide high-level advice to shape sustainable development.
• Collaborate with passionate professionals and local communities to enhance our ecological values.
• Enjoy hybrid work options and a supportive environment committed to your professional growth.

At Shellharbour City Council, we are dedicated to protecting our environment and promoting sustainability. As a Senior Biodiversity & Environmental Planning Officer, you will be part of a team that values innovation, collaboration and community engagement. Our vibrant city is home to diverse ecosystems, and your work will directly contribute to the conservation of our precious wetlands and bushland reserves.

We believe that every team member plays a crucial role in our mission. With a focus on continuous improvement and strategic planning, you will help shape policies and frameworks that enhance biodiversity conservation across our beautiful city.

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced professional ready to tackle the challenges of biodiversity management. If you are passionate about environmental planning and have a strong background in natural resource management, we want to hear from you

• Degree in Natural Resource Management, Environmental Science, Ecology, or a related field.
• Extensive experience in biodiversity and environmental assessments.
• Strong knowledge of relevant legislation and environmental policies.
• Exceptional communication, project management and problem-solving skills.

In this role, you will lead the charge in environmental referrals for development applications, coordinate biodiversity management plans, and provide expert advice to ensure our city's growth aligns with sustainability goals. Your contributions will not only impact Council operations but also enhance community awareness and engagement in biodiversity conservation.

• Temporary full-time role (35 hours per week) – maternity leave cover from 5 January to 18 December 2026.
• Commencing salary range from $95,974.84 to $101, depending on skills and experience)
• 12% superannuation
• Great employee benefits like retail discounts, fitness programs, weekly pay-run, support services such as the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and council benefits such as generous sick leave and health and well-being days.

Shellharbour City Council is a dynamic local government organisation serving a thriving coastal community of over 82,000 residents. Located just 1.5 hours south of Sydney, our region offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture and professional opportunity.

We are proud to be more than just a workplace; we are a community. We are a unique council with 435 permanent employees; delivering essential services and exciting initiatives across a diverse portfolio that includes:

• A Regional Airport serving our community with domestic flights
• A picturesque Marina that attracts tourism and boating enthusiasts and offers waterfront cafes and shops and;
• A championship Golf Course that attracts major tournaments and golfers across the region alike
• Five Libraries and a Local Museum celebrating our rich heritage
• A modern Sports Stadium offering a multi-use venue for sport
• A modern Service Depot, our operations hub where outdoor crew help maintain and beautify our local area.

For further information about the position, click here for the position description.

Contact: Joseph Gleeson, Team Leader Biodiversity and Environmental Planning on

Closing date: Wednesday 19 November 2025 at 11:30pm.

Please note: This role is scheduled to commence in January 2026.

Apply now...

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Shellharbour City Council is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values the unique strengths and talents of all people. Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander people, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and people with a disability are encouraged to apply.

At Shellharbour City Council we promote respect at work as a fundamental right for all and strive to create a workplace free from discrimination and harassment. This commitment extends to the promotion of the rights of all children and young people to be safe from harm when interacting with our services and spaces. Our values, Collaboration, Accountability, Integrity, Respect and Sustainability underpin all we do.

Your decision to apply for a role at Shellharbour City Council is the first step in acknowledging your alignment to our values and aspirations to create a great workplace.