Principal Ecologist

Thrive in a dynamic role as you shape WA’s water future. We are looking for people who are inspired to find better solutions, so together we can shape WA’s water future. At Water Corporation, we pride ourselves on being more than just a workplace. Our community is made up of committed and energetic individuals who prioritise a healthy work-life balance and embrace a diverse and vibrant culture.

About the role

We have a permanent opportunity for a Principal Ecologist joining our environment team. You’ll provide expert ecology and botany advice to the Environmental Approvals and Delivery Team and Project Delivery Teams. The role will provide on ground advice across Western Australia, define and deliver asset approvals strategies that meet statutory requirements, embed environmental considerations into business decisions, and contribute to our Thrive 2035 sustainability goals. This role is based in our Leederville office, and reporting to the Team Leader – Strategic Advisory and Governance.

What the role will involve

• Undertake ecological site assessments across Western Australia for the delivery of major capital projects, identifying significant environmental values.
• Utilise expert environmental knowledge to support decision making and to accurately interpret site data and to influence environmental pathways, by streamlining the approvals process by anticipating regulatory requirements, preparing high-quality documentation, and engaging effectively with regulators.
• Lead the provision of expert advice for environmental survey requirements for ecology in order to guide project teams and stakeholders on their obligations to de-risk the delivery of major projects.
• Provide expert ecology advice to ensure survey efforts are aligned with legislative and policy requirements that govern the delivery of major projects. This will ensure thorough inputs into Environmental Impact Assessment process for Part IV referrals under the Environmental Protection Act 1986 and the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Act 1999.
• Assist in the development and implementation of approvals strategies under relevant State and Commonwealth environmental legislation
• Applying expert knowledge of environmental agency expectations to secure statutory approvals and ensure compliance obligations are communicated at asset handover
• Providing technical advice on environmental risks, options analysis, and integration of environmental considerations into business decisions

Real benefits that matter

• Real flexibility with options to work from home, 9-day fortnight, flexible work hours
• Two well-being days each year to do whatever you need to do to feel good
• Access to long service leave pro rata after 3 years of service
• Take advantage of our co-contribution superannuation scheme: Receive a 12% employer contribution and enjoy an additional 2% employer co-contribution when you elect to salary sacrifice 2%
• Purchase additional leave of up to 12 weeks or work 4 years at a reduced salary and take the fifth year off as paid leave

Discover more benefits we offer to support the unique and individual ways our employees live.

About you

• Extensive experience in conducting ecological surveys, botanical identification and Black Cockatoo surveys with experience ideally across the state
• Degree level qualification in a relevant field, with substantial experience in environmental processes, risk assessment, approvals, and compliance
• Proven experience leading environmental specialists to achieve positive environmental outcomes under legislation such as the Environmental Protection Act 1986 and the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999
• Strong understanding of environmental approvals, assessment processes, and strategies to minimise environmental impacts
• Excellent stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence, negotiate, and build partnerships
• Demonstrated ability to lead, develop, and inspire a team to deliver on organisational goals

Sound like a match? Apply today

If you are interested in the above opportunity, please submit a covering letter and resume that best demonstrates your skills and experience as well as your ability to meet the requirements of the role. 

As part of the recruitment process you may be required to complete pre-employment screening which may include a medical, qualification check, police clearance and Australian working rights check.  

Applications close Sunday 18^th January 2026

Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace

Diversity and inclusion are more than words. They guide us on building a thriving workforce that reflects the diversity of our customers and our community.

We encourage applications from every background, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disability, women, youth, LGBTQIA+ folks and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

We are committed to ensuring an accessible and inclusive work environment to enable people with disability to participate fully in all aspects of employment.

Applicants with disability who require adjustments, or alternative methods of communication in the recruitment process, can contact a Recruitment Officer at recruitment@watercorporation.com.au or 08 9420 2000. To read our diversity and inclusion statement, please visit our website