Do you want your work to make a difference for NSW?

Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage.

• Temporary opportunity to 26 June 2026
• Talent Pool to be created for upcoming opportunities
• Full-time roles - 35 hours per week + FlexTime 
• Any NSW office location across NSW - regional location encouraged/hybrid working supported
• Salary ranges from $94,423.00 to $105,016.00 + super + leave loading

Our Conservation and Restoration Science team is currently seeking to appoint an Assistant Scientist Restoration Science.

About the role

As an Assistant Scientist within the Science and Insights Division, you will contribute to vital research programs that support the protection and restoration of NSW’s unique landscapes. Working alongside experienced scientists, you will help deliver high quality technical and ecological projects that inform priority biodiversity assessment and restoration programs. Your work will involve collating, managing and analysing data from multiple sources, applying data analysis techniques, and communicating results to underpin evidence-based decision making across the Department. This is an exciting opportunity to apply your scientific knowledge in practical ways that make a real difference for the environment and communities of NSW.

Roles will contribute to strategic initiatives across land tenures and stakeholders.

• Responding to recommendations of the reviews of the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 including revision of ecological integrity benchmarks under the Biodiversity Assessment Method, involving:
  • Assisting with report writing and publication.
  • Leading preparation of ecological data for analysis, including quality control, metadata documentation, version control, and data storage following best practice standards.
  • Supporting data analysis and data visualization of ecological variables using R statistical software.
  • Supporting the design, implementation, and data analysis of an end-user consultation process to validate empirically derived benchmarks.
• Responding to the recommendations of the NSW Plan for Nature including the development of a Landscape Restoration Framework, involving:
  • Evaluating and extracting data from published papers for an international meta-analysis of restoration outcomes.
  • Collect and compile restoration outcome data from other sources.
  • Supporting data analysis and data visualisation of restoration outcome data using R statistical software.
  • Supporting communication of results including publication.
  • Contributing to development of a database for effects of restoration actions from a range of published and empirical sources.

About You

We are seeking a motivated and enthusiastic early-career scientist with a passion for ecological research and conservation. You have a strong foundation in terrestrial or restoration ecology and are comfortable working in the field, collecting and managing data, and supporting data analyses and communications that inform policy and practice. You enjoy being part of a collaborative team and take pride in producing scientifically rigorous work that supports environmental outcomes.

You will bring:

• Experience in data management, and analysis (ideally using R statistical software)
• Understanding of experimental design principles
• Strong organisational and problem-solving skills with an eye for detail
• Capacity to manage competing priorities and meet project deadlines
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to support clear reporting and collaboration
• Familiarity with GIS or other spatial data systems
• Commitment to continuous learning, scientific integrity, and high professional standards
• A collaborative approach that values teamwork, respect, and diversity of perspectives

Essential Requirements

• Scientific qualifications and knowledge of terrestrial and/or restoration ecology
• Be able to travel for field work and stay overnight for up to 2 weeks at a time in remote locations
• Hold a current NSW Class C driver’s licence
• Hold current remote First Aid training, or willingness to obtain

For more information read the full Role Description:  Assistant Scientist Restoration Science

Who we are

The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) works to protect the state’s environment and heritage. It leads the way on climate change, driving the sustainable transition to a net zero economy, powered by affordable, reliable, and clean energy.

DCCEEW conserves and protects the state’s natural environment. It manages the NSW national park estate, including its rich and diverse biodiversity and Aboriginal cultural heritage for future generations.

DCCEEW also ensures sustainable management of water resources across the state, to support the environment, communities and industry.

We acknowledge the ongoing custodial responsibilities of the Aboriginal peoples of NSW to care for Country and water and are committed to establishing meaningful partnerships with Aboriginal peoples in the management of the environment.

To Apply

If excited by the information above, we look forward to receiving your application, including a copy of your resume and cover letter expressing your interest and suitability for the role.

Applications close Sunday, 2 November at 11:55PM.

Should you require further information about the role please contact Emma Gorrod via emma.gorrod@dcceew.nsw.gov.au or on 02 4927 3187.

A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary opportunities of the same role or role type that may become available over the next 18 months.

Our goal is to build a workforce that not only represents but also understands and serves the diverse communities of New South Wales. We are committed to making our state a vibrant and inclusive place to live, work, and thrive for everyone. Our workforce represents people of all ages and genders, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disabilities, the LGBTQI+ community, and people from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

Looking for more information or assistance in applying?

• Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace
• How we encourage and support people with disability
• Information and adjustments for individual needs for the recruitment process and the workplace.

DCCEEW is committed to providing an inclusive candidate experience and through the Disability Confident Recruiter program, identify and remove unintended barriers for candidates

If you require an adjustment for your application process, please contact our Talent Acquisition Team by emailing dcceew.ta@dpie.nsws.gov.au or contacting Mariam Barakat on 0429 667 238 (please mention reference number 545980).

If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander use our Guide for Aboriginal Applicants to assist with applying for roles or contact our Aboriginal Career pathways team for a yarn.

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