Senior Heritage Advisor / Archaeologist

We are seeking an experienced heritage professional to manage Sydney Water’s cultural heritage assets and heritage obligations, with a focus on Aboriginal cultural heritage. 

About The Role 

The primary focus of the role will be to provide expert technical support to ensure we meet our cultural heritage obligations. The role will assist with implementation of heritage strategies, policies, procedures and plans that position Sydney Water to effectively respond to relevant heritage legislation and policy requirements. You will deliver specialised advice to support the management, conservation and protection of cultural heritage assets. The key responsibilities are: 

• Provide advanced technical advice and support regarding Sydney Water’s heritage assets and management of statutory cultural heritage requirements.  
• Engage with stakeholders through effective communication, conflict resolution, and representation at industry forums.  
• Support technical uplift in colleagues and team members to improve heritage literacy and capability.  
• Align cultural heritage outcomes with Sydney Water’s desired business outcomes and capital program requirements.  

About You: 

In addition to a relevant Tertiary Qualification in archaeology or heritage, we are looking for: 

• At least 7 years’ relevant industry experience with a focus on Aboriginal cultural heritage management (experience also in historical archaeology and/or built heritage is desirable).  
• Demonstrated experience and competence working with Aboriginal communities, LALCs and key stakeholders with effective communication and conflict resolution skills.  
• Advanced understanding of heritage legislative framework under the National Parks & Wildlife Act 1974 and an intermediate understanding of heritage obligations under the Heritage Act 1977.  
• An understanding of the key heritage implications applicable to the planning and delivery of infrastructure and development. 
• A demonstrated pragmatic and efficient approach to cultural heritage management for the provision of essential services.  

Does this sound like you? Apply now. Closing date: 9th Feb 2026 11:59PM AEST

Please submit a cover letter no more than 1-2 pages outlining how you meet the required skills and technical capabilities outlined in the key responsibilities above. Particular attention should be given to examples of how you have achieved positive and balanced heritage outcomes with stakeholders and the community.  

We support you through the application process and can modify as needed – let us know what you need. For more information, you can contact marc.evans2@sydneywater.com.au 

Please see the position description for the role’s full accountabilities. 

Why join us 

At Sydney Water, your work will make a real difference in people’s lives—and your own. With diverse projects and roles, you'll find ample career growth opportunities. At Sydney Water, we actively seek and celebrate diversity, equity, inclusion, and individuality., fostering a safe environment where everyone can thrive and shape impactful community projects. We offer flexible working arrangements and opportunities for career progression among our many benefits. 

Dive into Our Great Benefits: 

• Competitive Remuneration: We’ll ensure that your skills and contributions are valued and rewarded appropriately. 
• Hybrid Work Environment: We offer a hybrid work model that balances remote work and office collaboration, supporting our team's productivity and well-being. 
• Continuous Professional Growth: We will invest in your career with leadership and development programs to propel your success. 
• 24/7 Wellbeing Support: Access for you and your family to free and confidential mental health and general health support through our EAP portal. 
• Discounted Private Health Insurance: Unlock affordable access to top-tier health coverage with our discounted insurance plans. 
• Family First: Prioritise your family with up to 18 weeks of fully paid parental leave and a childcare allowance. 
• Fitness Passport: Achieve your physical fitness goals using our Fitness Passport, granting you access to a multitude of gyms and pools across NSW. 
• Novated Leasing: Get in the driver's seat of your financial future with our novated lease options. 

Working at Sydney Water 

We welcome and encourage applications from diverse backgrounds, including First Nations people, LGBTQIA+, people with disability, people with caring responsibilities, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and veterans. 

As part of the application process, Sydney Water will be collecting your personal information to assess your suitability for the role. We will also use your personal information to establish a LiveHire talent profile in our Talent Community. 

Your personal information will be collected in accordance with LiveHire’s Terms, Privacy Policy and Sydney Water’s Privacy Collection Statement – Job Application. Please note as part of the application process, you will be asked to undergo background checks which includes a criminal history check.