Department for Environment and Water
Job reference: 833296
Location: 5000 - ADELAIDE
Job status: Long Term Contract
Eligibility: Open to Everyone

The Department for Environment and Water (DEW) is seeking an experienced Program Manager to lead the high-level implementation of the Adelaide Beach Management Program, a major South Australian Government initiative focused on the coordinated delivery of long-term metropolitan beach management outcomes.
This senior role is responsible for translating agreed government directions into structured, well-governed delivery - working across agencies, councils and partners to ensure implementation is effective, transparent and aligned with government expectations.

About the Role:

Reporting to the Director, Biodiversity Science, Coasts & Information, you will lead the implementation, coordination and governance of the Adelaide Beach Management Program.
The role focuses on managing program delivery at a strategic level establishing and overseeing work programs, governance arrangements, budgets, procurement and reporting rather than undertaking technical or investigative work directly.
You will coordinate specialist input (e.g. engineering, procurement, communications) where required, ensuring advice and services are integrated into program delivery and aligned with agreed objectives and timelines.

Why Work For us:

• Lead implementation of a state-significant coastal management program.
• Work at the intersection of policy, science and infrastructure delivery.
• Join a collaborative, purpose-driven agency protecting South Australia's coastline.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the high-level implementation of the Adelaide Beach Management Program in line with government decisions.
• Establish and manage program governance, risk, budgets and procurement processes.
• Oversee delivery of multiple implementation workstreams and milestones.
• Prepare Cabinet submissions, Ministerial briefings, parliamentary briefing notes and program reports.
• Coordinate cross-agency collaboration and engagement with councils, consultants and governance groups.
• Provide accurate, timely advice to Ministers, Chief Executives and senior executives.
• Lead and supervise program staff, supporting performance, capability and delivery outcomes.

What you'll Bring:

• Demonstrated experience delivering complex programs or large projects in a government or public sector environment.
• Strong capability in high-level program governance, implementation planning, budgeting and risk management.
• Proven experience preparing Cabinet submissions and Ministerial-level documentation.
• Ability to manage politically sensitive issues and operate confidently in complex stakeholder environments.
• Experience leading teams and driving delivery through collaboration and influence.

What can we offer you!

• Working in an organisation that is contributing to significant environmental outcomes in the great state of South Australia!
• Be part of a fun, collaborative and supportive team.
• Hybrid working model with flexible working options including work from home available to promote work life balance.
• Free entry into DEW managed Parks in South Australia.
• Salary Sacrifice Benefits.
• Access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Meaningful and rewarding career.

Contract: 
5 Year Contract

Desirable Qualifications:
A tertiary qualification in Project Management, Environmental Science, Engineering or other relevant discipline.

Special Conditions:

• May be required to participate in responses to state emergencies or associated duties.
• You must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or provide evidence that you hold a valid working visa that allows you to work in Australia without restrictions.
• Prior to being employed, the successful applicant will be required to obtain a National Police Check.
• A current class “C” driver’s licence and willingness and ability to safely operate a 4wd is essential.
• May be required to undertake intra or interstate

Remuneration: 
ASO8, $121,107 min - $125,679 max p.a.

Enquiries to:
Matthew Ward, Director, Biodiversity Science, Coasts and Information
matthew.ward@sa.gov.au
0428 116 023

Application Instructions:
Applications are to be submitted online through I WORK FOR SA.

Applicants are to submit a pre-employment declaration, CV and letter of application (max. 3 pages) addressing the Essential Criteria (including qualifications) as outlined in the Role Description.

The Department for Environment and Water is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage applications from people with diverse backgrounds including all ages and gender identities, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, people with disability, culturally and linguistically diverse and LGBTIQA+.

Applications close: 18/02/2026 11:45 PM

Attachments:
- Pre-Employment-Declaration_240522.pdf
- RD ASO8 Program Manager Adelaide Beach Mgt P65486 - 20251126-FINAL.pdf

Flexibility Statement
The South Australian public sector promotes diversity and flexible ways of working including part-time. Applicants are encouraged to discuss the flexible working arrangements for this role.