Science Communications Officer

Join us to shape the future of one of Australia’s greatest natural assets and protect it for future generations.

We are seeking people who want to contribute to a significant water reform program that aims to respond to the impacts of climate change, support community and industry needs, and improve access to water for First Nations people.

The Murray-Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) is an independent government agency which, in partnership with Basin governments, manages the Murray–Darling Basin’s water resources in the national interest. With the enactment of the Water Act 2007, the MDBA was established as an independent expertise-based statutory agency.

The MDBA aims to achieve a healthy working Basin for the benefit of all Australians. The Murray–Darling Basin contains a rich diversity of natural environments that are unique in Australia and the world. The Basin is also crucial to Australia’s economy and home to 2.3 million Australians, including people from over 50 First Nations. How we manage the Basin as a whole connected system, manage our water carefully, and protect it for future generations is set out in the Murray-Darling Basin Plan.  

The Position

The Science Communications Officer provides communications support to the Murray–Darling Water and Environment Water Program (MD–WERP) and Basin Condition Monitoring Program (BCMP) by collaborating across the MDBA, external state, federal and research agencies, and the wider community.

The Science Communications Officer assists with the development and implementation of communication strategies and plans that support the MD–WERP and BCMP strategic direction. They will help to bring clarity and creativity to the communication of technical and scientific reports, for both internal and external audiences. This role works collaboratively to deliver engaging communication products that clearly explain science and research activities, working with experts across the MDBA, Australian research and academic organisations, other Australian Government agencies, and wider stakeholder groups.

Your key responsibilities in this role are to:

• support the development and delivery of publication and communication strategies for new research papers, in close partnership with program managers, scientists, and MDBA staff
• identify storytelling opportunities from MD-WERP research and BCMP outputs, working collaboratively across teams to provide guidance on best-practice communication approaches, communicating reasoning for decisions and recommendations
• communicate key report findings and case studies effectively through established channels – including websites, newsletters, news stories, socials, videos, audio, and graphics. Contribute to growing the target audience and reach, by monitoring and reporting digital metrics such as audience size and engagement
• publish deliverables on the MD-WERP website, following established processes, and
• assist with development and delivery of communication materials for the MD–WERP Annual Symposium, and assist program representation at other key events.

What we offer you

• You will have the opportunity to work on projects where you contribute to shaping the future of one of Australia’s greatest natural assets and protect it for future generations.
• At the MDBA you will undertake a variety of interesting and challenging work. You will have the opportunity to apply your knowledge and expertise, and work with the Australian community to support a critical resource management initiative.
• Competitive remuneration packages, including up to 15.4% superannuation, and recognition of prior APS government service.
• Generous leave provisions (four weeks annual leave) and additional Non-attendance days between Christmas and New Year provided.
• Being part of a smaller agency with a strong focus on its connection with people.
• Being part of a professional, committed, and friendly team of people.
• Being part of an organisation that recognises and values First Nations people, and their contribution to our work. We have an innovative Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) aimed at improving relationships, showing respect, and increasing opportunities to deliver outcome for First Nations peoples as part of our business-as-usual activities.
• Competitive Flexible Working Arrangements which allow greater flexibility and balance between work and personal needs with a baseline attendance in the office to be 40% of your time.
• A range of healthy lifestyle provisions, including access to a health and wellbeing program.
• Opportunities for professional development, and career progression across a variety of roles and work locations. 

Tell me more

It is easy to apply for a job at the MDBA. Go to www.mdba.gov.au/careers and tell us what makes you the ideal candidate. Take the opportunity to work with the MDBA as we continue to make a difference through the protection and enhancement of the environment.

For more information regarding this opportunity contact Bron Edwards, Director Communications - Communications, First Nations and Strategy at ************@mdba.gov.au or 02 6279 0***.