Engagement Manager (Designated Aboriginal Position)

Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action

We're looking for a passionate and motivated Engagement Manager to join our First Peoples' Energy branch. In this role, you'll lead a Project Officer and work alongside our Policy team to deliver programs that matter - starting with First Peoples Energy engagement and support partnerships with Traditional Owner Corporations and First Peoples' communities. Your work will help ensure First Peoples' voices and aspirations are central to Victoria's renewable energy transition.

What you'll do:

Build strong, respectful relationships with Traditional Owner Corporations, First Peoples' communities, and partners across the energy sector. Support culturally informed projects and programs that reflect Aboriginal priorities. Implement the First Peoples Renewable Energy Strategic Plan and Contribute to DEECA's commitment to Pupangarli Marnmarnepu, our Aboriginal Self-Determination Reform Strategy.

What we're looking for:

Strong organisational and project management skills.
Excellent communication and ability to work collaboratively in a team.
Knowledge of Aboriginal culture and contemporary issues affecting Aboriginal Victorians. Experience in program or project delivery (energy sector or grants management experience is a bonus!).

This is your opportunity to make a real impact - supporting First Peoples' projects and aspirations for renewable energy while building a cleaner, fairer future for Victoria.

Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications

• Demonstrated knowledge and experience of Aboriginal culture and contemporary issues to deliver culturally informed government programs and services is required.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience working as a senior engagement specialist is highly desirable.
• An appropriate tertiary qualification/s in science, law, economics, public policy, natural resource or environmental management, business management or similar with an engagement focus is desirable.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement policy and processes aligned to government statutory requirements and operations that deliver agreed outcomes is desirable.

This is a fixed term position available for a period of 12 months. The work location for this position is 8 Nicholson Street, East Melbourne with hybrid work arrangements available.

To be considered for this position, applicants are encouraged to submit a resume and cover letter (no longer than 2 pages) summarising their skills and relevant experience.

Please refer to the Key Selection Criteria provided in the Position Description, including the mandatory requirements.

How to Apply:

If you are a current DEECA employee, please apply via DEECA Careers.

Click the ‘Apply' button and you'll be redirected to a new platform and create an account.

Applications close 11.59pm on Wednesday, 16 September 2026.

All applications must be submitted through the online portal. We are unable to consider email or manual applications at this time.

Other relevant information:

Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form and a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check.

An inclusive, culturally safe and flexible workplace

This position is designated for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people under s.12 Special Measures of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010. Confirmation of Aboriginality will be required for appointment to this position. Only Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are eligible to apply.

We recognise the significant responsibility to enable self-determination, be accountable to Traditional Owners and provide opportunities to strengthen First Peoples' connection to Country. We are committed to creating a culturally safe environment, where individuals feel safe, valued, and able to celebrate their culture, and spiritual and belief systems.

For general information about Aboriginal Employment at DEECA, please contact aboriginal.employment@deeca.vic.gov.au.

We also understand that a balanced life is important to our employees. Talk to us about our flexible options such as working some days from home, starting early or late, working part time, job sharing or accessing paid or unpaid leave. For more information visit applying for a role with us,.