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Queensland Department of Environment and Science
#ACareerthatmatters #AContributionthatcounts
The Department of Environment and Science (DES) is the Queensland government agency responsible for managing and protecting the state’s environment and natural resources.
We bring together people with a common mission: to lead and partner in managing, protecting, restoring and promoting Queensland’s natural environment, cultural heritage and cultural diversity.
Everyone can find their place here at DES. We have heaps of opportunities for those who can see themselves as fearless park rangers, tech-savvy wildlife officers, eco-rule enforcers, policy officers or even project officers; or perhaps any of the roles that support them— like admin, media and comms, finance human resources and legal— to name just a few. No matter what preference or passion, you’ll find #ACareerthatmatters #AContributionthatcounts at DES.
Meet some remarkable team members and hear why they love working at DES — explore our people stories.
- Keen for work that really matters?
- Up for the challenge?
- Ready to be valued, respected and rewarded while taking advantage of the unlimited opportunities for learning and promotion?
Grow your skills. Grow your potential. Grow your future – all within the state’s largest employer: the Queensland Government.
A career at DES could be perfect for you!
Why work for us?
Why work for us?
Here at DES, our team works hard every day to make a difference. And we are committed to supporting our people in a variety of ways.
- Your work life balance:we offer the flexibility so that you can contribute in a way that enables you and the team to deliver. We offer different types of flexibility depending on the role, such as when and where you work – just ask!
- Your efforts, your rewards:you’ll earn a competitive salary from day one. We also provide generous superannuation, and your leave and financial benefits follow you and accumulate throughout your career across state government.
- Try different things:our mobility program means you can explore diverse roles and areas within DES or across state government to build your skills and advance your career – all while keeping your permanent job secure and growing your income, as you grow your capability.
- Fuel your learning:we provide internal and external training so you can be the best you can be, and you can request financial assistance to pursue higher education if you are interested.
- Shape your leadership journey:our outstanding leadership development programs are designed to nurture your talents and prepare you for managerial and leadership roles within DES.
Scan the QR code to see what jobs are currently available with DES!
Job search | Employment and jobs | Queensland Government (smartjobs.qld.gov.au)
Sustainability
Curious about how we are making a difference? If you’re exploring career opportunities that align with your passion for the planet, you’re in for a treat! Here’s a few ways that we contribute to making our world more sustainable.
- We are like the guardian of nature. We make sure that companies and people follow rules that keep our environment clean and safe.
- Ever dreamt of helping unique animals and plants? We take care of Queensland’s special critters and their homes. Creating safe spaces and making sure species don’t disappear forever.
- Tackling climate change is a big deal and DES is on it! We’re all about using cleaner energy, like sunshine and wind power, to keep our planet healthy.
- Want to solve nature’s mysteries? Our scientists explore forests, oceans and more to understand how our world works. It’s like a real-life adventure.
- Reducing waste and protecting water and land are some of DES’s superpowers. We’re working to keep our resources safe for generations to come.
- We love teaching people about our planet. We create cool stuff to help everyone, including you, learn about nature and how to take care of it.
- We team up with other awesome groups to save the day. We work with communities, schools and others who care about the environment, just like you!
So, if you’re dreaming of a career that lets you make a real impact on our planet, DES might be your calling. Dive into our world and discover how you can help create a greener and more sustainable future.
Diversity and inclusion – making a difference
The department is committed to developing and maintaining a workplace that is positive, engaging and respectful for all employees and is reflective of the community we serve.
We are dedicated to building a safe work environment for our people, and a culture free from harassment that recognises, values and respects individual differences and where everyone can bring their true selves to work.
Our 2023–2026 Equity and Diversity Plan (PDF, 280KB) outlines the department’s approach to building equitable, diverse and inclusive workplaces.
Through inclusive practices and the way we value diversity, we can:
- nurture potential – by providing an inclusive and equitable workplace culture where you feel respected and valued; and can contribute to your full potential
- innovate—diversity of thought comes from diversity of experience and by harnessing this we’ll identify better solutions, make decisions that are more informed and create better options for our customers
- relate to customers—when our workforce reflects the community we serve, we are better able to understand their needs and are more responsive to them
DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION EMPLOYEE RESOURCE GROUP (ERG)
- When you work with us, you can join our Diversity and Inclusion Employee Resource Group (ERG) and make an impact on creating an inclusive culture at DES. ERG is a group where employees come together to promote diversity, share ideas, and support each other. Together, we can shape a more inclusive workplace, challenge assumptions, and make a difference.
Respectful Workplace
Did you know most people spend more time with colleagues than friends or family?
That’s why we’ve created our Respectful Workplaces program –because we understand how important it is to feel safe, included and respected at work.
We’re committed to making work a great place to be.
WHAT WE DO TO SHAPE OUR CULTURE OF RESPECT:
- we treat each other with consideration and respect
- we celebrate and embrace diverse perspectives and differences
- we honour the achievements of our fellow team members
- we’re mindful of how our actions affect others
- we speak up against behaviours that can harm
- we’ve established safe spaces to voice concerns without fear
- we lead by example
- we’re open to feedback about how our actions impact others
SOME OF OUR AMAZING PROGRAMS THAT MAKE IT ALL HAPPEN:
- Respectful Workplaces Education Program: we’ll help you build your confidence to respond to disrespectful behaviour if you see it.. This program empowers you to react in the moment, extend support and report any issues
- MATE Bystander: embrace your personal leadership to promote respect and preventing harm by becoming an active bystander
- Leading at DES: discover how to lead while nurturing a respectful and inclusive workplace.
Your path to DES
A career with our department is what you make of it. As the saying goes, you only get out what you put in. Those of us who nurture relationships, embrace challenges and seize opportunities really do thrive here.
We come from a diverse range of backgrounds and work in a wide variety of disciplines in locations throughout the state.
You could be maintaining and protecting our national parks, monitoring our environment, engaging with young Queenslanders, conducting world-class science and research or providing crucial administration or corporate support. Whatever role you undertake with us, you’ll be part of a team that recognises the enormous value a clean environment, innovative society contributes to our lives.
Our roles can be dynamic, exciting and incredibly rewarding. In fact, our people have said that they never would have learned through formal training some of the things they do in their job today.
Work experience
When you undertake an unpaid work experience placement with our Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service & Partnerships (QPWS&P) division, you’ll gain valuable hands-on experience that may lead you to a career here at DES. We provide work experience opportunities for both secondary and tertiary students.
STUDENT ELIGIBILITY
To be eligible, you must be:
- at least 14 years old
- enrolled with an Australian secondary or tertiary education provider and
- able to gain approval and confirmation of public liability and workers’ comp ensation insurance from your education provider.
HOW LONG IS A WORK EXPERIENCE PLACEMENT?
Work experience placements can run for a maximum period of 30 days per calendar year and must finish in the same year.
To support students with disability, a longer placement may be approved to enhance experience and learning needs.
Interested in work experience? Register your interest today!
Volunteer with us
As a volunteer at DES, there are so many opportunities to contribute to work that really matters, such as:
- caring for and rehabilitate sick, injured, or orphaned animals
- planting native trees along wildlife corridors
- helping monitor and relocate turtle nests as well as counting nests and hatchlings
- assisting in park related projects such as weed eradication or visitor infrastructure developments
- assisting with guided tours at historic sites such as Fort Lytton
- recording migratory wading birds along our coasts
- monitoring and collecting information on Johnstone River snapping turtles and yellow-bellied gliders.
If you decide to volunteer with the department, you will be guided and assisted by a departmental officer who will give you an introduction to the organisation, explain your role, provide training and help with any questions or issues that might arise.
First Nations Gap Year Program
If you identify as an Aboriginal person or Torres Strait Islander person, we have a First Nations Gap Year Program that can provide you with an opportunity to explore a range of occupations and build your skills and career options.
The program is designed for people who have completed Year 12 in the past three years with a pass in Maths and English.
You’ll learn valuable skills to assist you now and in your future career, including:
- getting to know the department, learning key skills such as office etiquette, personal branding, Office 365 and time management
- sharing experiences and learning from others , including our Cultural Agency Leader, fellow graduates from across DES and other First Nations employees
- job application skills, interview skills, resume development and career coaching, and
- visits to locations of interest, including the Eco Sciences Precinct, State Library of Queensland and Queensland Museum.
BENEFITS
- you’ll have a structured pathway from education to the workplace
- you’ll participate in a coordinated and supportive learning and development program
- you’ll develop a network of peers including fellow participants and graduates
- you’ll develop skills and abilities to not only perform effectively in the workplace but be ahead of the game when applying for permanent jobs.
Keep up to date with our next intake and start your career journey today!
Industry Placements
Queensland University and TAFE courses often have a compulsory study and work-integrated-learning component where students are required to undertake a work placement in their relevant discipline to complete their qualification.
If you are a tertiary student looking to complement your studies with practical work experience, we have an Industry Placement program designed for you.
Our teams can host you to undertake projects which provide you with an opportunity to apply your theoretical knowledge and practicals skills in the work environment.
The list of project opportunities are published on our website during semester 1 of each year, with placements commencing in semester 2 and 3/summer break period.
BENEFITS
- you’ll gain practical experience in your chosen field
- you’ll be provided with an opportunity to apply your skills and knowledge and work with experienced and expert staff
- you’ll develop professional networks
- you’ll increase your knowledge of the public sector and the work of the department.
Find out more here or reach out to the team at careerpathways@des.qld.gov.au.
Graduate Program
The Environmental Services and Regulation (ESR) Graduate Program is an opportunity to translate your academic experience into an operational career as an Environmental Officer.
As an Environmental Officer you may work with others to assess environmental risks, go on site to undertake compliance inspections, educate industry and community members about environmental obligations and interpret and apply legislation.
You’ll be supported to build your capacity in the disciplines of compliance and assessment and get started in a meaningful career in environmental regulation.
THE PROGRAM
Over our 12-month program, you’ll have the opportunity to complete rotations and projects across the diverse work of ESR and across the state. You’ll build your capacity in the disciplines of compliance and assessment and be supported through the development program.
ELIGIBLITY
To be eligible to participate in this program, you will hold a university degree (undergraduate or postgraduate) from a recognised tertiary institution in one of the following disciplines: environmental management, chemical, forensic, physical, geological, hydrological, environmental, applied, or biological sciences, environmental engineering. Other closely related disciplines may be considered.
Find out more here.
First Nations Peoples
One of our core values here at DES is acknowledging and fostering genuine partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
We are already engaged in meaningful initiatives that honour, value and strengthen the connection with Queensland’s First Nations peoples. The Gurra Gurra Framework 2020-2026 exemplifies our dedication to enhancing this connection through improved governance and sustainable land management. These partnerships promote respectful interactions and deepen cultural understanding by integrating knowledge, experiences, values, traditions and historical spiritual bonds.
INCREASING REPRESENTATION
A key area of focus is to strengthen the attraction and retention of our of First Nations employees at all levels of DES by continuing to build an inclusive culture and career development. If we get this right , we will:
- be a more culturally diverse organisation
- be an organisation that values and incorporates the knowledge, expertise and contributions of First Nations people
- contribute to improved economic outcomes for First Nations peoples through jobs and career opportunities
- build cultural capability for all staff to create a culturally safe working environment for First Nations peoples.
At DES, we’re all about forging meaningful partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. We have policies and guides to help us all create a workplace that’s diverse and inclusive. Through the Gurra Gurra Framework 2020-2026, we’re taking big steps to honour and strengthen connections with Queensland’s First Nations peoples.
By joining us, you’re not just embarking on a career; you’re becoming part of a team that values and celebrates the knowledge and contributions of everyone. Let’s work together to make a positive change and create a culture where all voices are heard.
Diverse Ability and DES
There are many kinds of disability.
Disability can occur because of accidents, illness or genetic disorders. Disability may affect a person’s day to day life and functioning, mobility, communication or learning – not all disabilities are visible.
DES has a membership with the Australian Network on Disability (AND) which helps us engage with people with disability. AND is a national not-for-profit and is the only employer-led network in Australia focused on the inclusion of people with disability.
EVENTS
We celebrate diverse ability – every year we mark Disability Action Week and encourage all employees to increase their awareness of disability, through development opportunities; to be an alley to colleagues, helping to build a more inclusive culture that is reflective of the community we serve.
JOB ACCESS PARTNERSHIP
We have partnered with Job Access to assist us to deliver on our specific Access Ability actions, including:
- providing disability capability training for managers and employees to improve disability awareness and confidence in recruiting and managing employees with disability
- exploring partnerships with external organisations and services to provide employment opportunities for people with a disability.
But that’s not all – we’ve got your back with our Diverse Ability Recruitment Policy. This policy sets the principles and processes for recruitment and selection activities, supporting us to increase the representation of people with disabilities.
So, whether you’re eager to be an ally, challenge assumptions, or make a lasting impact, the DES community is the perfect place to be.
Cultural Diversity
Australia is a multicultural country, rich in diversity.
Here at DES, we aim to have a workforce that is reflective of the cultural diversity we see in the community around us. We also want to work in a respectful place where we all feel accepted, valued and included.
MULTICULTURAL ACTION PLANS
‘Our story, our future’ is the Queensland Government’s Multicultural Policy that promotes an inclusive, harmonious and united Queensland.
The policy sets out 3 priorities that we can all contribute to:
- achieving culturally responsive government
- supporting inclusive, harmonious and united communities
- improving economic opportunities.
We also have the Multicultural Action Plan to guide us in our dive to continue action and support an environment of opportunity and achieve improved social and economic outcomes for people from culturally diverse backgrounds.
STEM
Are you curious about the world of science and how it shapes our future?
Well, at DES, our Science Division is all about leading-edge discoveries and making a real impact on Queensland and its environment.
Imagine this: you’re a science superhero diving into complex data, analysing patterns and projecting future scenarios. You’re on a mission to tackle climate changes, monitor water resources, study emissions, protect habitats like koala homes, manage vegetation and even save the incredible Great Barrier Reef.
But wait, there’s more! Here at DES, we’re not just about lab coats and data. We invest in research, build your skills and collaborate on strategies that amplify the value of science… and guess what? You can be a part of this too!
You can be a citizen science superhero – there are loads of science projects that involve community participants as citizen scientists in Queensland. Learn more here.
OFFICE OF THE QUEENSLAND CHIEF SCIENTIST (OQCS)
OQCS is the driving force behind boosting science engagement across the state. From creating strategies to advising the government with evidence-based science, they’re here to empower Queenslanders like you to explore, learn and be better informed about the exciting world of STEM.
If you’re passionate about shaping the future, increasing scientific literacy and diving into STEM studies and careers, the OQCS is your go-to source. They’re all about collaborating with communities, researchers and industry experts to put Queensland on the map as a smart and innovative region.
So, whether you’re dreaming of exploring the mysteries of the universe or making a difference in our environment, DES and the OQCS are here to fuel your curiosity and make science a career of choice.
Learn more here.
LGBTIQA+
We stand proud in our commitment and celebration of diversity and supporting the LGBTIQA+ community. Here’s how we show it:
We show our support throughout the year by marking significant events that hold a special place in the hearts of the LGBTIQA+ community.
Just like you, we recognise the importance of these occasions, including:
- Wear it Purple Day: we proudly participate and promote the importance of inclusivity and support for rainbow youth.
- IDAHOBIT (International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism and Transphobia): on IDAHOBIT, we unite with the world in fighting against discrimination and promoting a more inclusive society.
- Pride: we join Pride celebrations to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the LGBTIQA+ community, showing our unwavering support for equality and diversity.
COMMITMENT TO THE LGBTIQ+ ACTION PLAN
We’re not just about words; we’re about actions. We’re committed to working closely with the Public Sector Commission to implement the objectives outlined in the Queensland public sector LGBTIQ+ action plan 2023-2025. This plan outlines concrete steps for fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for us all.
DES has a membership with Pride in Diversity which provides us with loads of support, resources, networking opportunities and training. Pride in Diversity is the national not-for-profit employer support program for LGBTIQA+ workplace inclusion specialising in human resources, organisational change and workplace diversity.
We celebrate diversity because we believe in a world where everyone is treated with respect and can bring their authentic selves to work.
Join us in this journey towards a more inclusive and diverse workplace for all.
There are currently no jobs available
Unfortunately there are currently no positions available at Queensland Department of Environment and Science, please check back soon.
