The Climate Council of Australia is seeking a talented, motivated and experienced Senior Researcher with climate science expertise and an ability to work across all climate issues, including the costs of climate change, climate adaptation, solutions and international action.

The Senior Researcher’s primary purpose will be supporting the Climate Council’s research team including managing projects by producing high quality internal and external publications and climate change advice.
The Senior Researcher will be working with Australia’s premier team of climate scientists, energy and health experts, business and policy specialists. The Climate Council’s research team is prolific having produced over 110 publications in six years. The team’s work is very high profile and high impact with research completed reaching millions of Australians through traditional and social media, as well as an international audience.

If you are passionate about making a difference, want to grow your skills and experience, including the opportunity to develop or advance your science communication skills, and work with a team of leading experts, this role is for you.

You will work with a small team based in Sydney or Melbourne, as well as a high performing team across Australia.

This is a Full Time One year parental leave contract role based in either Sydney or Melbourne.

The Senior Researcher will report directly to the Head of Research and will commence in late January/ early February 2020. 

Key Selection Criteria

Research skills 

You have demonstrated experience in:

• Identifying and analysing relevant, accurate information and data, conducting literature reviews, and summarising key themes and concepts.
• Translating research or information into factual, engaging content accessible to a general audience.
• Staying up to date with relevant scientific, technical and policy developments.
• Working quickly and efficiently to a high standard and have the ability to handle high pressure situations. 
• Managing and coordinating scientific and technical reviews.

Written and verbal communication skills

You are an excellent writer with a flair for communicating complex issues in clear, plain English. You are confident writing for a range of purposes given that this role includes writing reports, fact sheets, web articles, social media, speeches, submissions, as well as providing verbal briefings and presentations.

You can present your ideas clearly and accurately. The Senior Researcher works closely with our media and community teams, CEO and Councillors, providing advice, as well as preparing information for Climate Council supporters and the public.

Initiative and resourcefulness

You are a proactive problem solver with a record for identifying challenges and finding opportunities. You are comfortable with taking ownership of work and following through with tasks without being asked. 

Passion and drive

You are a high performer with a passion to succeed in everything you do. You are driven and looking for the next step-up in your career to grow and learn.

You are passionate about making a difference and care about the big issues in our society. 

Qualifications

You have a bachelor or preferably a higher degree in a relevant field, such as climate science, geography, economics or, alternatively, demonstrated experience, particularly working across all climate issues (science, impacts, adaptation, the costs and solutions).

Highly regarded

Specific climate science knowledge or experience and a strong interest in climate solutions and international climate action. Policy experience would be advantageous but not essential.

Rewards and Benefits 

The Climate Council is Australia’s leading climate change communications organisation. This exciting and dynamic organisation will continue to be in the public eye, giving those involved an unrivalled opportunity to contribute to the public discourse on climate change.

With exposure to some of the leading minds tackling climate change, this role is a unique opportunity.

Additional benefits include:

• Excellent learning and development opportunities both internally and externally
• Programs for time off in lieu and flexible working arrangements
• Strong work culture which is results focused but also vibrant, supportive, fun and nimble