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!
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 – Level 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
Total Cash component: $115,385 - $121,624
Superannuation: up to 19% total (12% super + 7% council contribution)
Non‑cash benefits:
- 4WD utility vehicle (restricted private use)
- Shire‑provided housing
Indicative Total Package: $169,580 - $177,005
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