Science Leader

Role Overview

Queensland Government is seeking a Science Leader to head the Ecosystem Survey and Mapping team within the Queensland Herbarium and Biodiversity Science unit. This Brisbane-based, Toowong role is focused on providing strategic and day-to-day leadership for multidisciplinary work that supports the state’s biodiversity and environmental priorities.

In this position, you will guide ecosystem survey and mapping programs that produce high-quality scientific outputs for the sustainable management of Queensland’s natural resources. You will also help build a collaborative team environment, provide well-timed advice to senior leaders, and put operational and strategic plans into action so the unit can meet business priorities.

This is a significant leadership opportunity for someone with a strong background in botany, ecology, or a related scientific discipline who is committed to making a meaningful contribution to environmental science.

About the Unit

The Queensland Herbarium and Biodiversity Science (QHBS) unit delivers essential ecosystem survey and mapping services that support biodiversity science and environmental sustainability across Queensland.

Key Duties

• Direct the planning and delivery of a varied portfolio of ecosystem survey and mapping projects, including work on regional ecosystems and wetlands.
• Provide strategic, technical, and operational guidance to senior management on ecosystem science and how it applies to Queensland legislation, including vegetation management.
• Encourage a supportive, high-performing team environment that recognises individual strengths and promotes ongoing professional development.
• Represent the department at government, scientific, university, and industry forums, advocating for departmental interests in a professional manner.
• Oversee governance, compliance, and safety responsibilities under applicable laws, including the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and the Financial Accountability Act 2009.
• Work actively with First Nations communities to support improved outcomes and help advance equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace.

What Success Looks Like

Success in this role will be shown through delivery of meaningful scientific projects, stronger team capability, and improved collaboration across the business unit and with external stakeholders.

Requirements

• A science degree with a focus on botany, ecology, or a similar discipline, or an equivalent qualification.
• Strong leadership capability, including experience managing teams, coordinating multidisciplinary projects, and driving continuous improvement.
• Practical expertise in ecosystem survey and mapping, along with awareness of emerging trends relevant to government and industry needs.
• Well-developed communication and negotiation skills for building and maintaining relationships with a broad range of stakeholders.
• Sound knowledge of Queensland vegetation management legislation and how it informs scientific outputs.
• A clear commitment to safety, equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace.

Benefits

• Join a supportive team that values the contribution you bring.
• Work in an environment where your efforts directly support Queensland’s biodiversity science and environmental agenda.
• Access flexible working arrangements and opportunities to grow professionally.

Additional Information

Applicants from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Priority consideration will be given to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and people living with disability who meet the minimum requirements.

If you need support or adjustments during recruitment to help demonstrate the inherent requirements of the role, contact Gillian Brown on 0428 875 877 or gillian.brown@detsi.qld.gov.au.

Applications remain current for 12 months.

Job reference: QLD/693960/26. Closing date: Wednesday, 15 July 2026. Occupational group: Sciences.