Australia’s energy transition is happening in real time, and the polluters dragging their feet need someone who can call it, prove it, and put it in front of the people who can act on it. We want a Senior Researcher who is passionate about climate change and Australia’s energy transition, knows energy policy, reads the political room, and turns evidence into outputs that actually move decision-makers…. fast.

• 12 month fixed term contract, based in Sydney, Canberra or Melbourne 
• Strong knowledge of energy systems and energy policy essential 
• You’ll produce fast, sharp, decision-maker-ready research, policy briefs and publications

About the role: 

This role sits within a Working Group producing the research and policy ideas that prove Australia’s climate solutions are ready to scale, and that our biggest polluters have no excuse left. Expect to fact-check with our media and digital teams, work shoulder-to-shoulder with our advocacy and government relations crew, and background journalists and policy makers as one of our go-to voices on energy.

This role is for someone who lives and breathes climate and energy policy: electricity markets, generation,transmission and climate pollution reduction. Just as important, you understand how policy actually gets made, and you know how to write for the people in the room, not just peer reviewers. We need outputs that land in weeks, not months.

You will have:

• 6+ years researching energy, climate or public policy, with strong technical depth in energy systems and energy policy highly desirable
• A relevant tertiary qualification (research, energy, climate change, public policy or similar)
• A track record of sharp, accurate publications – reports, fact sheets, submissions, briefings – that people actually read
• A knack for finding the compelling fact buried in the data and making it land for a general audience
• Political nous – you understand how policy makers think and what moves them, and you build for influence, not just accuracy
• Strong self-management – you run your own projects and don’t need chasing
• Communication skills that work in a briefing, a media grab and a fact sheet
• A track record of thriving amid shifting priorities and tight deadlines

What we offer our employees: 

• Supportive and healthy work/life balance through hybrid options and flexible hours.
• Enjoy 5 additional paid days off each year to focus on your wellbeing
• Yearly flu vaccinations to help you stay well.
• A passionate, friendly, and knowledgeable team where every voice is heard and valued.
• A strong annual base salary plus superannuation, and recognition payments
• A culture of celebrating people’s achievements, both professionally and personally. 
• Opportunities for professional development 

About Climate Council: 

Climate Council is Australia’s own independent, evidence-based organisation on climate science, impacts and solutions. Powered by our incredible community, we advocate for solutions that rapidly drive down emissions, and shape the national conversation about the consequences of inaction.

Our vision: Australia has acted decisively, protecting the people and places we love from the worst impacts of the climate crisis.

Our mission: We are a courageous catalyst propelling Australia toward bold, effective action to slash our climate pollution and contribute positively to global action.

Our Goal: In 10 years, Australia will be powered by the sun and wind, with clean energy flowing through our homes, cars, industries and communities. We’ll be leading the world in climate action, building a fair, thriving green economy and leaving fossil fuels behind. Together, we’ll be safer, stronger, and proud of the country we’re shaping for the future.

Our values:

• We are brave and bold
• We are hopeful and solutions focused
• We act with integrity and communicate honestly

How to apply: 

Applications close: Friday 2nd October 2026 at 12pm 

If you have any questions about the role, or would like to view the position description, please contact us at jobs@climatecouncil.org.au.

To apply, please submit an up-to-date CV and a cover letter outlining your interest in the role and why you’d like to join the Climate Council.

The Climate Council is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, colour, sex, age, religion, national origin, disability, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, matriculation, genetic information, or political affiliation.

At the Climate Council we are committed to building a neuro-inclusive team and encourage applications from neurodivergent individuals. The climate Council works out of co -working spaces, our offices are open plan and staff work on a hot desk basis. We are happy to discuss any accommodations to support your success. Applicants may be required to complete a written task as part of the recruitment process.  

We strongly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to apply.

We aim to contact all applicants regarding the outcome of their application.