Gladstone Area Water Board (GAWB) is a commercial Statutory Authority constituted under the Water Act 2000 whose purpose is to supply bulk water to major consumers in the Gladstone Region. GAWB manages a diverse portfolio of assets including major water storage, pump stations, pipelines, storage tanks, and water treatment plants. The organisation also supports recreational facilities and fish fingerling production and stocking programs. GAWB is known for its strong community and customer relationships and is committed to delivering safe and reliable water services that enhance the liveability of the region.
About the Role
In support of GAWB’s focus on operational excellence, the newly created role of Drinking Water Quality Specialist – FGP will be pivotal in ensuring the successful integration of the Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline (FGP) into GAWB’s existing network from a water quality perspective. This position will lead the development and implementation of best-practice drinking water quality processes that ensure GAWB continues to meet customer expectations and regulatory obligations.
The initial focus will be on system readiness, risk assessment, and alignment with the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines and relevant legislation. As the pipeline transitions into operational service, the role will shift to provide ongoing governance and oversight of water quality systems, including stakeholder engagement, incident response, technical support for operations, and reporting to internal and external stakeholders.
This is a multi-faceted position that blends technical analysis, compliance, training, and communication. It will suit someone who enjoys combining office-based work with field oversight and who can confidently interpret and apply drinking water regulations and quality standards in a practical, operational environment.
About You
You are a subject matter expert in drinking water quality, with hands-on experience in the water industry and a detailed understanding of compliance requirements, risk management, and stakeholder expectations. You’re comfortable managing both technical detail and broader governance processes, and you can build trusted relationships with regulators, community stakeholders, and operational teams. You bring strong communication and data analysis skills, along with a practical understanding of how to apply drinking water standards in dynamic, real-world conditions.
Qualifications & Experience
- Tertiary qualification in Environmental Science, Engineering or a related discipline, or equivalent industry experience
- Demonstrated experience in water quality roles within the water supply industry
- Sound knowledge of water supply systems, operations, and compliance frameworks
- Proficient in water quality data management, risk assessment, and reporting
- Strong understanding of Australian Drinking Water Guidelines and relevant legislation
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (including Office 365 and SharePoint)
- Current “C” Class Driver’s Licence
- Desirable: familiarity with the Water Act 2000 and HACCP risk frameworks
What’s on Offer
This is a key senior specialist opportunity in a respected regional utility, with the chance to make a tangible impact on essential water services and regional liveability. You will join a values-driven organisation with a strong safety culture and a commitment to innovation and sustainability. This is supported by a range of unique employer benefits and a competitive salary package which includes additional superannuation.
Relocation assistance is also on offer should the successful candidate be based outside of Gladstone.
For a confidential discussion, please contact Tim Wallis from Sharp and Carter – twallis@sharpandcarter.com.au or 0439 817 992.
