Head of Department Water Use and Water Protection with Deputy Office Management (m/f/d)

As the fifth largest canton in Switzerland with around 6000 employees, we are committed to the common good of society at the

cantonal administration. With an impressive variety of services,

our work affects all areas of life, whether education, economy, law, security, nature, health, construction, culture, or finance. With our meaningful

work, we leave a small footprint every day, as it is relevant to over half a million people.

The Office for Water and Energy (AWE) is committed to safe and intact waters, protection against floods and natural hazards, protection and sustainable use of rivers, streams, lakes, and groundwater, rational and efficient use of energy, climate protection, and adaptation to climate change.

Due to reorganization and the newly emerging department, we are looking for a

Head of Department Water Use and Water Protection with Deputy Office Management (m/f/d)

Starting date: January 1, 2026, or by agreement

Workload: 80-100%

Workplace: St. Gallen

What to expect

• Operational and personnel management of the department with five sections and 27 employees
• Deputizing the Head of the Office for Water and Energy
• Representing the department in commissions, expert committees, and towards municipalities and the public
• Ensuring efficient, service-oriented collaboration within the office and with the department
• Co-responsibility for substantive and organizational processing and handling of government and cantonal council matters
• Participation in consultations on federal and other departmental ordinances concerning water use and water protection

What distinguishes you

• Convincing leadership personality with high social competence
• University degree in natural and environmental sciences or engineering (civil/environmental)
• Many years of professional experience in the fields of water use and water protection
• Leadership experience in a similar role, ideally in the public administration environment
• High customer orientation and understanding of political decision-making processes
• Skilled communication ability

What we offer

• Responsible and demanding leadership and specialist tasks with high personal responsibility
• Participation in the management of the office in a collegial team and as a sparring partner to the office head
• Competent and motivated team
• Professional and entrepreneurial scope for design in an exciting political environment, especially in the area of water use and water protection
• Interdisciplinary collaboration with various stakeholders inside and outside the state administration

Ready for the next step? If we have sparked your interest and you want to be part of the team, we look forward to your application.

Further information from:

Ralph Brändle, Head of the Office for Water and Energy, phone 058 229 87 14