Principal Engineer, Mechanical Grade 11/12

• Full-time ongoing
• Location: All of NSW
• Our employees work principally in the workplace
• Salary from $145,378 to $168,130 plus super and leave loading

Diversity and inclusion are core DPIRD values.  Everyone has the right to contribute and participate to their full potential.  We are committed to supporting a diverse and inclusive culture that is respectful, welcoming and flexible – a workplace where our people feel supported, valued, and part of our collective success.

This role provides the opportunity to be part of the ongoing digital transformation within NSW Public Works and the implementation of our digital environment to support the excellent design and delivery of projects across NSW.

About the role

We are currently seeking a Principal Engineer - Mechanical to join the Water Resource Management Directorate of NSW Public Works (NSW PW). You will report to the Director and lead a team responsible for delivering water and sewerage engineering projects for Water Utilities in Regional NSW.

About You

To undertake this role, it is essential that you have proven experience in managing multi-disciplinary engineering projects within a technical and commercial environment. You will be required to build and maintain strong relationships both within and outside Public Works and have capacity to work with management, staff and clients exhibiting strong stakeholder management skills.

Our ideal candidate will have the following:

• A Mechanical Engineer with about 15 years’ experience in the water industry, at least 5 of which should be in design management of projects related to water supply and sewerage.
• High level knowledge of rotary and static equipment design with associated pipework/valves for water, and wastewater infrastructure projects
• High level knowledge of hydraulic aspects and sizing of pumps and water transfer systems
• Competent in preparation of Options reports, Concept designs and Technical specifications
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with high level interpersonal skills
• Experience in the design and delivery of projects in a digital environment
• Proven experience in managing a team with a commercial focus delivering a positive net cost of service.
• Proven experience in advising and guiding the development of junior staff in a team including reviewing work and providing feedback.

You must have a current NSW Driver Licence and willingness to drive to and work in remote locations which may include overnight stays.

About Us 

NSW Public Works (NSW PW) is part of the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development and supports local and state government agencies to deliver critical infrastructure initiatives by providing expert advisory, planning, design, delivery and support services. There’s nothing abstract about what we do. Just look around. Our work is in the hospitals, dams, water treatment plants and now in the new Bradfield city which is under construction.  Every day we help shape the ambitious projects that bring progress to more people in NSW. From forging a more sustainable relationship with the land around us, to engineering the big ideas of the future. In every challenge we see the chance to build stronger and more connected communities. We do this by developing solutions that show creativity and grassroots ingenuity, providing impartial advice and support at all levels of government and the private sector, and partnering with experts to maximise the benefits of our knowledge and experience.

In NSW PW offices all over the state, you’ll find local expertise for local issues. We uncover the best talent, scrutinise cost and risk, and bridge the gap between private sector and government. By managing these nuances, projects we work on don’t just get done, they become benchmarks others aspire to.

Together, we are DPIRD 

The New South Wales Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) protects, supports and develops primary industries and regional economies. 

Collectively we support strong and sustainable agriculture, forestry, fishing and mining industries, and regional economies. We actively manage our natural assets: our lands and soils, minerals, waterways and oceans, vegetation and forests.  

 The department brings together:  

• Local Land Services 
• NSW Resources 
• Agriculture and Biosecurity 
• Fisheries and Forestry 
• Regional Development and Delivery. 

With nearly 5,000 employees, and 75 per cent of the DPIRD team living and working in regional NSW, we are embedded in the regions we serve. 

Learn more about the benefits of joining our diverse and talented DPIRD team. 

Applying for the role

Apply online by submitting a current resume and brief cover letter that outlines your skills and experience relevant to the role.

For more information about the role, please click here to view the role description.

Additionally, if you would like to hear more about this role, please contact Glenn Fernandes, Director Water Resources Management on 0421 487 408 or email glenn.fernandes@pwa.nsw.gov.au

Closing Date: Tuesday 17 June 2025 at 11:55pm.

Additional Information

If you require adjustments in completing your application, interviewing, completing any pre- employment testing, require information in an alternative format, or otherwise participating in the recruitment process, please let us know so we can assist. Send an email to capability.talent@regional.nsw.gov.au or contact the hiring manager listed above for a confidential discussion.