• Clerk Grade 9/10 role starting at $129,464 + super & leave
• Temporary up to 30 June 2027
• Location: Willing to consider candidates across all NSW locations with a focus on Regional locations

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Team Leader, Contracting to lead and coordinate contract management activities across a diverse portfolio of grant and funding programs that deliver real outcomes for regional NSW.

In this role, you will provide specialist advice and leadership across end-to-end contract management — from funding deed development and negotiation through to compliance, financial acquittals, variations and reporting. You will play a critical role in ensuring strong governance, compliance and value for money in the delivery of government-funded initiatives.

Supporting a small, high-performing team, you’ll work closely with program managers, senior leaders and external stakeholders to support effective program delivery and continuous improvement.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate grant and funding agreement contracting, including variations
• Review and manage funding deeds and contracts in line with program guidelines, budgets and governance frameworks
• Responsible for financial approvals and reconciliations
• Support of junior staff with day to day tasks, including coaching, training and issue resolution
• Provide expert contract management advice and identify governance, compliance and risk issues
• Develop and implement policies, procedures and systems to support compliant contract management and reporting
• Monitor, analyse and report on program and project performance, milestones, budgets and risks
• Support program evaluation and continuous improvement by analysing outcomes and lessons learned
• Build strong working relationships across government and with industry stakeholders
• Prepare high-quality briefings and correspondence for senior management, Ministers and Cabinet

About you

You are a confident contract management professional with strong judgement and a collaborative leadership style. You bring experience managing complex contracts and grants, enjoy mentoring others, and are comfortable operating in a fast-paced, multi-program environment.

You will also bring:

• Sound experience in contract and grants management, including implementation, financial management and compliance
• Experience supporting or coordinating a small team
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and reporting skills
• The ability to provide clear, practical advice to senior stakeholders
• A strong understanding of governance, compliance and risk in a public sector context
• Experience in the use of SmartyGrants online system is preferrable but not essential

Essential requirements

• Relevant tertiary qualifications or equivalent professional experience and training

Why work with us

• Flexible work locations across NSW
• Meaningful work that delivers benefits to regional communities
• Supportive leadership and a collaborative team culture
• Opportunities for professional growth and development

Applying is easy! 
 
Submit your current Resume/CV and a Cover Letter (max. 2 pages) outlining your relevant skills and experience, and why you’re our ideal candidate. 
 
If you’d like to know more about the role, please click here to view the  Role Description.

For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Melinda Farrar, Manager Contracting on melinda.farrar@dpird.nsw.gov.au or 0447 930 042

Applications close: 11:55pm Thursday 12 February 2026

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 talent.advisory@dpird.nsw.gov.au or contact the hiring manager listed above for a confidential discussion. 

What to Expect Next   

After applying:   

• You’ll receive a confirmation email   
• We’ll review all applications once the ad closes   
• If shortlisted, you may be invited to interview (in person or Microsoft Teams video)   
• Further assessments will follow (e.g. writing task, skills test, psychometric test)   
• Reference checks will be completed for final candidates    
• The preferred candidate for this role may be required to undergo reference checks, a national police check, bankruptcy check, health assessment and/or other assessments as required.   
• A talent pool may be created for ongoing and temporary roles of the same type that may arise within the next 18 months.   

About us – 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     

We have skilled and dedicated teams working in 200 locations across regional NSW. 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.   

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion   

At DPIRD, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds – including, but not limited to, gender, age, ethnicity, cultural heritage, disability, religion and sexual orientation.   

DPIRD is a proud Disability Confident Recruiter, Family Inclusive Employer and Carer Friendly Employer   

We are committed to ensuring every stage of the recruitment process is accessible and free from barriers. If you require adjustments or information in an alternative format to participate, please contact talent.advisory@dpird.nsw.gov.au or the hiring manager listed for a confidential discussion.   

We also understand that work is just one part of life. Our Family Inclusive Employer and Carers + Employers Accreditations reflect our commitment to supporting employees to balance work and family responsibilities.