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Mia Hoffmann

from cleaner at a daycare centre to Environmental Advisor
I help construction projects follow environmental rules and approvals.
Industry
Energy, gas and oil
Company
Powerlink
Job Level
Mid

Ask me about

  • The cutest and weirdest wildlife I've seen at work
  • What field work is like e.g 4WDs, head-torches, hikes and early starts
  • How school subjects, hobbies and life experiences all help me at work
  • The biggest environmental risks and how we prevent them

About me

  • Regional Background

When I finished high school, I took a gap year before enrolling in a Bachelor of Arts (Writing). I chose this degree because while I knew I wanted to go to uni, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to be when I grew up, but I’ve always been a “words person”. After I graduated, I realised my real passion was the environment, so I went back to UQ for a Master of Environmental Management.

I landed a full time graduate environmental role in the waste industry, so I switched to part time study. Eventually I left full-time work and worked at a grocery store to prioritise studying full time. I graduated in 2022, got back into the environment industry, and now I’m at Powerlink working on energy projects. But I’m still not sure what I want to be when I grow up!

About my role

  • Analytical
  • Creative
  • Curious
  • Observant
  • Principled

At Powerlink, an Environmental Advisor helps teams deliver electricity transmission projects - like building and upgrading substations and high-voltage line - while looking after the environment and meeting approval conditions. They guide projects through environmental approvals and permits, turn requirements into practical steps for site teams and contractors, and help plan work to minimise impacts to land, waterways, and wildlife. The role covers a wide range of issues, including erosion and sediment control, waste and spill management, contaminated soil, and biosecurity risks such as weeds and pests (including fire ants). They also support the wider business with sustainability initiatives and reporting, including contributions to National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting (NGER). Environmental Advisors work with ecologists and regulators, do site checks, and provide clear advice to achieve positive environmental outcomes.

Education

  • High School Certificate
  • Bachelor of Arts (Extended Writing)
  • Master of Environmental Management (Conservation Biology)

Subjects

  • Art
  • Biology
  • Digital Design/Information Technology
  • English
  • General Mathematics (Maths A)
  • History

Hobbies

  • Gardening
  • Hiking
  • Interior design
  • Running
  • Seeing family and friends

Pets

  • 2 Cat

15 year old me!!

“Listen to your true passion, back yourself, and don’t stress a non-linear path. It’s never too late to switch things up.”

My career journey

Curious to know how I got here? Here’s a snapshot of my career pathway.
  1. Finished school and took a gap year
  2. Studied Bachelor of Arts (Writing)
  3. Returned to uni: Master of Environmental Management
  4. Graduate environmental role, switched to part time study
  5. Re-entered the industry as an Environmental Advisor

My typical day

My employer

Powerlink Queensland is a leading Australian provider of electricity transmission services, focused on delivering a safe, cost-effective and reliable high voltage electricity transmission network for Queenslanders. We’re committed to helping our people thrive - offering inclusive benefits, meaningful career paths, and a supportive, down-to-earth team. With Powerlink, you'll find opportunities to develop your career and make a lasting impact in the energy sector. From apprenticeships and graduate programs to diverse roles across Queensland, we welcome fresh perspectives and forward thinking.