Aquatic (Freshwater) Scientist

There's no pledge more important than the one we make to look after our environment, and we're committed to helping you do exactly that.

Join us as we strive to ensure a sustainable future for our communities and the world we live in.

Become part of our global network of skilled engineers, scientists, auditors, planners and environmental specialists, all working together to leave this world better than we found it.

Who are we looking for?
Due to continued growth and a strong pipeline of aquatic science projects across our region and beyond, we are seeking applications from Aquatic (Freshwater) Scientists who are passionate about making a positive impact on our waterways.

Whether you're based in Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, or Gold Coast, you'll join a collaborative team of environmental specialists, engineers, and scientists, working together to deliver innovative solutions for government and private sector clients. This is an opportunity to tackle exciting technical challenges, contribute to high-profile projects, and develop your career within a supportive environment that values diverse backgrounds and fosters professional growth.

Working with an energetic and high performing team, this position offers a variety of work and will see you involved in:

• Conducting environmental impact assessments for freshwater (and occasionally marine) projects, including monitoring ecological impacts, water and sediment quality, and threatened species. This involves both fieldwork and data analysis to ensure compliance with regulatory frameworks and project approval pathways.
• Delivering aquatic science projects on time and within budget, ensuring quality standards are met. This includes field planning, coordination, and reporting for projects across government and private sectors. This may also include work in remote environments where detailed logistics are required.
• Interpreting on international, national, and state environmental legislation and policy. Engaging with clients, regulatory agencies, and other stakeholders to provide direction and ensure project success.
• Preparing technical reports, proposals, and documentation for clients and regulatory bodies. This includes developing effective aquatic assessment, monitoring, evaluation, and reporting strategies.

What would you bring to the team?

• Bachelor's degree (or higher) in Environmental Science, Marine Science, Biology, Ecology, or a closely related field. Honours or postgraduate qualifications are highly regarded.
• Minimum 5 years of technical experience in freshwater ecology, or environmental consulting, with demonstrated project delivery in multidisciplinary teams.
• Proven ability to conduct aquatic ecosystem assessments, macrofauna surveys, electrofishing, habitat assessments, water and sediment quality monitoring, and ecological surveys, including data analysis and interpretation.
• Experience interpreting and applying relevant environmental legislation, regulatory frameworks, and preparing high-quality technical reports and proposals for clients and regulatory bodies.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience collaborating with clients, regulators, and multidisciplinary teams.
• Desirable qualifications: can lead electrofishing (with proven logged hours), AUSRIVAS qualification, Coxswain level 2 (or higher), qualified drone pilot.

Important Notice: Office Shutdown Period
Please be aware that our office will be closed from Thursday 25th December 2025 to Friday, 9th January 2026. We will reopen on Monday, 12th January 2026. During this period, there will be delays in processing applications and responding to enquiries. We appreciate your understanding and patience.

Interested? Apply online now.
GHD is an equal opportunity employer, and we want everyone to be able to fully participate in our recruitment process. We value a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and people of all identities.

GHD embraces hybrid work arrangements to create a work environment focused on well-being, flexibility and productivity where GHD people can thrive, this supports the diverse needs of our workforce while balancing the benefits of remote working with the value of face-to-face collaboration in the office.

We respectfully ask that no agency resumes be presented at this stage.

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