Senior Investigator (VPS5)

About this role

About us

The Essential Services Commission is Victoria’s independent economic regulator of essential services supplied by a range of industries. The commission’s functions include:

• making regulatory decisions with respect to prescribed industries (including price determinations, licensing, customer protection and access disputes).
• undertaking reviews and providing advice to Ministers on a range of economic and regulatory matters.
• administering the Victorian Energy Upgrades program.

The Senior Investigator plays a leading role in protecting Victorian energy consumers by investigating complex regulatory matters and supporting the commission's enforcement activities. Working within the Enforcement team, you will lead investigations, assess complex evidence and contribute to regulatory decisions that promote compliance and improve outcomes across the energy sector.

This is an opportunity to apply your investigative expertise in a strategic regulatory environment. You'll work on complex matters, provide trusted advice to senior leaders, collaborate with legal and regulatory stakeholders, and help shape the commission's approach to enforcement. You'll also coach and mentor colleagues, contributing to the ongoing development of investigative capability across the team.

Multiple 12-month fixed-term positions available. The work location for this position is 570 Bourke Street, Melbourne with hybrid work arrangements available.

Key accountabilities

• Lead complex investigations into potential regulatory breaches, from planning through to recommendations and outcomes.
• Analyse evidence and provide strategic advice to support enforcement decisions and regulatory action.
• Prepare high-quality investigation reports, enforcement documentation and legal briefs.
• Build productive relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including legal representatives, industry participants and other regulators.
• Coach and mentor team members while contributing to continuous improvement of investigative practices, policies and procedures.

Please refer to the attached position description for the principal functions and key selection criteria.

How to apply

Click the ‘apply now’ button to be redirected to our recruitment platform, where you may need to create an account to submit your application.

All applications should include

• a resume; and
• a cover letter addressing the key selection criteria, highlighting your skills and relevant experience in relation to the role.

For further information about the role, please contact Linda Grant, Manager Enforcement at linda.grant@esc.vic.gov.au or Israel Marsh, Manager Enforcement at Israel.marsh@esc.vic.gov.au

Our commitment to fostering a diverse, inclusive and flexible workplace

Be part of a highly respected and professional organisation that allows you to apply your knowledge while supporting flexible working arrangements that allow you to balance work and life. You’ll be working in a dynamic and collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth.

We are Equal Employment Opportunity employer with inclusive leaders committed to driving a workplace culture that prioritises equity, safety, respect, and flexibility for all staff. We uphold the principles of Aboriginal self-determination in caring for our community.

We welcome applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds, including Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples, people of any age, gender identity, parental/carer status, ability, religion, or cultural backgrounds.

If you require any adjustment to equitably participate in the recruitment process or need an alternative format to any of the application material, please contact people.culture@esc.vic.gov.au for support.

Other relevant information

Applicants must have corresponding work rights for the advertised employment period to be appointed to this role. Ongoing positions are only available to Australian/New Zealand citizens or Australian Permanent Residents.

Preferred applicants are required to undergo mandatory pre-employment screening, which includes a national criminal history check, right to work verification, qualification checks, statutory declaration disclosing any previous misconduct investigations and declaration of private interests.

Applications close Sunday 6 September 2026 at 11.59pm

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