Senior Environmental Health Officer (DS02)

The Shire of Derby/West Kimberley encompasses the towns of Derby, Fitzroy Crossing, Camballin, and 54 Aboriginal Communities throughout the region. Living in Derby and Fitzroy Crossing offers a relaxed and vibrant lifestyle, with a wide range of leisure activities such as exceptional fishing, boating, sightseeing, community events, and sports. The locals are known for their warm and welcoming nature, making it easy to feel at home.

This region is also home to breathtaking and untouched wilderness areas, including the iconic Buccaneer Archipelago, Gibb River Road, Fitzroy River, and Geikie Gorge. If you’re eager to experience the beauty of the wet season and immerse yourself in the rich Indigenous culture, this is the perfect opportunity.

At the Shire, we value the unique backgrounds, experiences, and contributions that each person brings to our community. We encourage and celebrate diversity, welcoming applications from Aboriginal people, those identifying as LGBTQIA+, women, individuals of all ages, people with disabilities, and culturally and linguistically diverse individuals. Our aim is to create a workforce that reflects the community in which we live.

Benefits of Working in the Shire

• Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with access to nature and outdoor activities, allowing for a fulfilling work-life balance.
• Cultural Enrichment: Gain a deeper understanding of Aboriginal culture by working closely with local communities and participating in cultural events.
• Natural Beauty: Be surrounded by stunning landscapes and explore some of Australia’s most pristine wilderness areas during your time off.
• Community Spirit: Join a close-knit, welcoming community where you can form lasting friendships and feel a strong sense of belonging.
• Personal Growth: Experience living and working in a unique environment that fosters both personal and professional development.
• 5 Weeks Annual Leave: Benefit from an extended leave package, giving you more time to relax and recharge.
• Up to 7% Council-Matching Super Contributions: Boost your retirement savings with generous employer contributions.
• Novated Leasing: Enjoy the convenience and tax advantages of novated leasing for your vehicle.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Access professional support for your mental health and well-being.
• Free Pool Entry: Enjoy free access to the local pool following your probation period, encouraging an active lifestyle.

If you’re ready to embark on a rewarding adventure in one of Australia’s most beautiful and culturally rich regions, apply now!

Description

The Senior Environmental Health Officer provides strategic leadership for Environmental Health (EH) and Aboriginal Environmental Health (AEH) services across the Derby/West Kimberley region. This role is central to planning, delivering, and improving environmental health programs that support the Shire’s long‐term vision, while ensuring compliance with legislation and best practice.

The position leads a high‐performing team, builds strong partnerships with government agencies and Aboriginal communities, and offers expert advice to senior management and Council on emerging public health issues. Responsibilities include overseeing key environmental health functions—such as food safety, water quality, public buildings, waste management, environmental complaints, and public event approvals—along with providing technical guidance to the AEH team and supporting culturally informed community health initiatives.

The role also manages program development, funding, reporting, and regulatory compliance, ensuring all activities align with the Public Health Act 2016 and other statutory requirements. Strong stakeholder engagement, advocacy, and communication are essential, as the position represents the Shire in forums and partnerships.

A focus on workplace health and safety, customer service excellence, and effective human resource management is embedded throughout the role, including mentoring staff, supporting training and development, and fostering a positive, collaborative team culture.

The Senior Environmental Health Officer reports to the Manager Development Services, supervises the Environmental Health Officer, and provides technical support to the Aboriginal Environmental Health Team Leader while working collaboratively with internal teams, external agencies, local contractors, and the community.

Remuneration

This position is based in Derby and is classified Level 8.1–8.4, dependent on skills and experience. A highly competitive package is offered, including generous allowances, 19% superannuation, non‐cash benefits, and relocation support to help make regional living a long‐term success.

Salary & Benefits Summary

• Classification: Level 8.1–8.4 (dependent on experience)
• Base Salary: $99,415 – $104,654 per annum
• Allowances:

• Location Allowance: $11,000
• Annual Travel Allowance: $2,000 – $3,000
• Communications / MFA: $1,470
• Utility Subsidy: $1,500

• 4WD utility vehicle (restricted private use)
• Shire‐provided housing

Skills And Experiences

ESSENTIAL

• Bachelor of Science (Environmental Health) degree or equivalent qualifications acceptable to be appointed as an environmental health officer in accordance with Section 17 of the Public Health Act 2016 (as amended) and an authorised officer in accordance with Section 122 of the Food Act 2008.
• Minimum of two years' previous experience as an environmental health officer in Local Government.
• An excellent working knowledge and ability to interpret and apply relevant legislation, principles and practices including environmental health and work health and safety.
• Demonstrated experience in the field of environmental health, minimum of two years (desirable – within regional or remote Australian environments).
• Demonstrated experience working in a culturally diverse environment.
• Demonstrated excellent time management and organisational skills; prioritising based on business objectives.
• Appropriate skills and knowledge in budget management and expenditure control, minimum of two years' experience overseeing an operational budget.
• Demonstrated strong verbal and written communication skills, including report writing skills.
• Well-developed customer service and community liaison skills.
• Well-developed interpersonal, problem solving and conflict resolution skills.
• Willingness to undertake further training.
• Ability to obtain a WA Working with children check (WWCC) and maintain throughout employment.
• Current "C" Class Manual Driver's License.

DESIRABLE

• Basic knowledge of evidence collection and presentation in relation to legal proceedings.
• Ability to lead a team, collaborate and provide leadership through at least two years in a leadership role, supervising teams.
• Two years' experience in grant procurement, grant management, and acquittal processes.
• Ability to prepare and deliver interactive educational packages and presentations.
• Awareness of Aboriginal environmental health issues, through experience working in regional or remote locations in Australia.

To Apply: To apply, prepare a cover letter (up to two pages) addressing the selection criteria below. Submit your application through the Shire of Derby/West Kimberley career portal at https://www.sdwk.wa.gov.au/work-with-us/working-at-the-shire.aspx.

Please note: shortlisting may occur prior to the closing date.