Director

The dam safety regulator is responsible for regulating dam owners to minimise risks to the community through the establishment and enforcement of good practice dam safety standards. The dam safety team of 22 FTE is technically competent, risk based and proactive in its regulatory approach with an emphasis on identification and effective response to emerging risks. As Director of the dam safety team your role requires a combination of technical, leadership and management and emergency response competencies. You are required to deliver industry leading technical guidance and effective regulatory compliance oversight, have an ability to identify and effectively deal with dam safety risks, provide timely and effective technical advice during emergencies (which may include high pressure situations where lives are at risk), and be a capable leader of a diverse team.

About The Department
The Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers (DLGWV), previously known as the Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water, is at the forefront of driving sustainable growth across Queensland. Our mission is to manage water resources responsibly and empower councils to support and grow Queensland communities. With over 700 dedicated professionals across Brisbane and regional offices, we work tirelessly to ensure that Queensland's communities, businesses and water resources thrive.

About The Role
As Director, Dam Safety, you will lead Queensland's dam safety regulator, ensuring the highest standards of safety and compliance for referable dams across the state.

This is a pivotal leadership role within the Water Resource Management Division, responsible for:

• Overseeing the implementation of the dam safety regulatory framework under the Water Supply (Safety and Reliability) Act 2008.
• Providing expert technical advice and regulatory oversight to minimise risks to communities.
• Leading a team of 22 technical and regulatory specialists to deliver proactive, risk-based compliance and emergency response.
• Exercising emergency powers during high-pressure situations, including major flood events.
• Representing the Department at state and national forums on dam safety and flood risk management.

About You
You are a respected leader and technical expert with:

• Mandatory: Bachelor of Engineering and registration as a Professional Engineer of Queensland (RPEQ).
• Extensive experience in dam engineering, water infrastructure, and emergency response.
• Proven ability to lead diverse teams, manage complex regulatory frameworks and deliver results under pressure.
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills and the ability to influence policy and industry standards.
• Commitment to sound governance, strategic thinking, and building enduring relationships.

About Your Benefits

• Attractive salary with generous superannuation and leave loading.
• Flexible work arrangements and work-life balance.
• Opportunity to lead a high-performing team in a role that safeguards Queensland communities.
• Professional development and leadership growth in a values-driven organisation.

Queensland Public Sector Inclusion And Diversity Strategy
DLGWV is committed to respecting, protecting and promoting human rights in our ecision-making and actions. We value the diversity of our workforce and are guided by the Queensland Public Sector Inclusion and Diversity Strategy. Please refer to our: Equity and Diversity Plan, Cultural capability action plan, disability service plan and multicultural action plan. We strive to create a respectful and rewarding workplace culture that encourages, recognises and embraces every individual's contribution within a collaborative environment that allows all employees to thrive.

We believe our workforce should represent the community we serve. We strongly encourage enquiries and applications from people with diverse backgrounds including Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

How To Apply
Submit your resume and a brief cover letter (1-2 pages) demonstrating your suitability for the position.

Please also let us know if there is any assistance we can provide that would help you to participate in the recruitment process.

Applications will remain current for a period of 12 months.
Job Ad Reference:
QLD/663842/25
Closing Date:
Monday, 20 October 2025
Occupational group
Management