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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 job  

We are seeking a passionate Senior Scientist to lead innovative scientific projects that enhance the safety, sustainability, and quality of our water services. As part of the Science and Strategy group, you will design and deliver investigations that improve water and wastewater treatment processes, support strategic objectives, and help drive efficiency while strengthening SA Water’s scientific reputation locally and globally.

You’ll bring extensive expertise in water and water treatment chemistry and processes, coupled with proven experience in designing and delivering complex scientific research projects. You’re skilled at analysing data and communicating your findings clearly and effectively across multiple formats. A collaborative team player, you work well within multidisciplinary teams, providing strong project management and leadership. While knowledge of wastewater treatment chemistry is desirable, your problem-solving mindset, passion for innovation, and commitment to applying science to real-world challenges will be vital in supporting South Australia’s water future.

In addition, your responsibilities will include: 

• Planning, managing, and delivering scientific investigations and pilot studies to improve water and wastewater treatment processes.
• Providing expert advice on water quality and treatment to internal stakeholders.
• Leading and supporting the delivery of research projects that contribute to safe, sustainable, and fit-for-purpose water services.
• Supporting the development of new scientific methods and services to enhance capability within SA Water.
• Collaborating with external research partners and consultancies.
• Sharing research outcomes through internal communications and external publications and conferences.
• Coaching and mentoring junior staff, students, and graduates to build scientific capability.
• Promoting and role modelling a strong safety culture aligned with SA Water’s values.

Your success in this role will come from: 

• A degree in Science or equivalent, with a focus in a relevant discipline.
• Extensive experience in the design and delivery of scientific investigations and research projects.
• Strong knowledge of water chemistry and water treatment processes; wastewater knowledge is an advantage.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly through reports, presentations, and publications.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively across multi-disciplinary teams and manage scientific projects.
• A strong interest in innovation, research, and solving practical challenges in water service delivery.
• A valid Class C driver’s licence.

Further information can be found in the attached PD –  PD Senior Scientist.docx

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

Applications close 4pm, Friday 4 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 LGBTIQA+ 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.