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About the Company

SA Water is a successful, modern water utility wholly owned by the Government of South Australia. We employ more than 1,700 people across a broad range of disciplines who operate more than $14 billion worth of infrastructure to deliver essential water and sewerage services to more than 1.8 million South Australians.

We operate in a geographically and climatically diverse service area, with sites and locations from Ceduna through to Port Augusta, the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands, across to the Riverland, down to Mount Gambier, and most places in between.

Our strength and expertise have been shaped by our history. For more than 165 years, South Australians have depended on us to innovate and deliver efficient and sustainable water services. With nationally and internationally recognised industry expertise, we’re focused on understanding and meeting our customers’ expectations.

As well as safely delivering smart and reliable services for our customers of today, we innovate to shape the water solutions of the future that will support thriving economies and healthy communities.

We are driven by our values; we value our people, we do work that matters, we keep it real, we know that our work has impact and we are future focussed. Staying true to our values ensures that we consistently deliver positive outcomes for all South Australians.

About the role

As the Aboriginal Heritage Engagement Adviser, you will play a vital role in guiding SA Water’s approach to Aboriginal heritage management across a diverse range of projects and operational activities. You will coordinate the development and implementation of corporate frameworks, provide expert advice to internal teams and contractors, and ensure compliance with relevant heritage legislation. A key part of the role involves engaging meaningfully with Aboriginal communities, negotiating heritage agreements, and identifying opportunities for culturally respectful partnerships. You will also contribute to the delivery of SA Water’s Reconciliation Action Plan and support initiatives that foster cultural awareness across the organisation.

About You

You are a culturally respectful and knowledgeable professional with a strong understanding of Aboriginal heritage and the legislative landscape that governs it. You bring experience in working collaboratively with Aboriginal communities and have the communication skills needed to build trust and mutual understanding. You are confident in providing expert advice on heritage matters and have a practical mindset that supports the successful delivery of infrastructure and operational projects. Archaeological experience would be advantageous, supporting your capacity to contribute detailed heritage assessments. A current driver’s licence is essential, and while a relevant tertiary qualification is desirable, your demonstrated expertise and commitment to cultural heritage protection are what set you apart.

About Science and Strategy

The Science and Strategy group employs scientific approaches to address present and upcoming challenges. They execute a strategy driven by customer preferences to elevate the SA Water brand and position us for future success.

In addition, your responsibilities will include:

Fostering trust with our people, customers and community by providing expert advice and service that ensure we effectively communicate and engage audiences with our business strategy and its delivery across South Australia, every day.

You will:

• Provide expert guidance on Aboriginal heritage matters related to SA Water’s operations and projects.
• Develop and implement corporate policies, strategies, and frameworks for Aboriginal cultural heritage management.
• Build and maintain respectful partnerships with Aboriginal communities.
• Negotiate heritage agreements that enable project delivery while protecting cultural values.
• Identify training needs and promote cultural awareness across the organisation.
• Support the delivery and review of SA Water’s Reconciliation Action Plan.
• Identify mutually beneficial partnership opportunities with Aboriginal communities.

Skills, Knowledge, and Experience:

• Sound knowledge of Aboriginal cultural heritage and its management.
• Understanding of relevant Commonwealth and State Aboriginal heritage legislation.
• A current driver’s licence (Essential).
• Strong relationship-building and communication skills, particularly in culturally sensitive contexts.
• Experience in environmental or heritage assessments, contract management, or community engagement (Desirable).
• A passion for working with Aboriginal communities and a commitment to cultural respect and inclusion.

Further information can be found in the attached PD- Aboriginal Heritage Engagement Adviser-PD.docx

To apply, click 'Apply'. Please submit and complete the application form, upload a cover letter and current resume. For enquiries, please contact Tracy from the Talent Acquisition team tracy.rayan@sawater.com.au

Applications close 4pm, 22 July 2025.

A great customer experience is best achieved by having a diverse and inclusive team that reflects the community we serve. Applications are encouraged from everyone, including people living with disability, job seekers of all ages, members of the LGBTQA+ community, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and people from culturally diverse backgrounds.

Our Industry is like no other. Dive into the wonderful world of water and explore the boundless opportunities. Learn more about the water industry at careersinwater.com.au

Please note: We request that recruitment agencies do not submit candidates for this position, as they will not be accepted.