About the role
The Senior Fisheries Manager (Threatened Species) leads the development and delivery of innovative policies, strategies, and projects to protect and restore threatened species, populations, and ecosystems across NSW.
This role operates at the forefront of conservation, guided by the Fisheries Management Act 1994 and key biodiversity and natural resource legislation.
We are looking for an individual who can:
- Lead implementation of policies and projects to conserve NSW threatened fish.
- Interpret legislation to guide decisions, advice, and environmental assessments.
- Provide expert briefings and advice to Ministers, the Deputy Secretary, Executive Directors and external stakeholders.
- Advise the Fisheries Scientific Committee on threatened species matters.
- Build partnerships and networks to drive species recovery and share knowledge.
- Lead forums, meetings, and presentations to promote policy and public awareness.
- Act as principal advisor, guiding staff and stakeholders on biodiversity issues.
- Travel across NSW and respond flexibly to achieve conservation outcomes.
About You
To be successful in this role, our ideal candidate will have the following:
- Extensive knowledge, understanding and > 5 years demonstrated experience in the legislative framework for threatened fish management, biodiversity conservation and impact assessment.
- Demonstrated knowledge of contemporary threatened aquatic species and aquatic biodiversity issues and extensive experience in the delivery of conservation programs.
- Current Class C NSW drivers’ licence, a current Recreational Boat Licence/Coxswains qualifications or ability to obtain and ability and willingness to travel
- Experience in leading a small team
- Fish identification and handling skills and experience in report writing and development of collateral
Applying for the role
Apply online by submitting a current resume (max 3 pages) and brief cover letter (max 2 page) that outlines your skills and experience relevant to the role.
A downloadable copy of the role description is linked below for your reference.
Role Description - Senior Fisheries Manager, Threatened Species
Additionally, if you would like to hear more about this role, please contact Sam Davis-Philipson, Program Leader – Habitat & Threatened Species on sam.davis@dpird.nsw.gov.au or 0408 663 338
Closing Date: 11:55pm Sunday 10th May, 2026
What to expect next
- You’ll receive a confirmation email
- We’ll review all applications once the ad closes
- If shortlisted, you may be invited to interview on Microsoft Teams or in person
- Further assessments will follow (e.g. written 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, pre-employment medical 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
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is the department dedicated to growing primary industries and supporting regional economic development to deliver long term benefits to the state. Our focus is to protect, support and develop our primary industries, mining sector, and regions.
The department brings together Agriculture & Biosecurity; Forestry & Fishing; Local Land Services; NSW Resources; Regional Development & Delivery; the Regional Growth NSW Development Corporation; NSW Public Works and Soil Conservation Service.
We have nearly 5,000 employees, with almost 80 per cent of us living and working in regional NSW.
Why work for Us?
We work hard every day to support and grow thriving communities across regional NSW that will have a positive impact on generations to come. Our goal is always to be a trusted local partner and problem-solver working deeply in community.
As part of our team, you will be able to:
- Deliver with impact. You are empowered and trusted to create impact through exposure to cutting edge projects and research, career defining opportunities, and get to be part of a team creating sustainable solutions that will leave a legacy.
- Connect to what matters. We are all about forming deep community relationships, fostering our passionate and connected teams. It is central to our work to support a true sense of belonging across the team.
- Live your way. From bringing your whole self to work, through to designing flexibility, that fits you and the team, at Regional NSW you will be able to find the balance that works for you.
We are a young agency, but with that has come a personality that is dedicated, passionate, proactive, influential, and informed. We’re all about ‘having a crack’.
Additional Information
Diversity, equity and inclusion are central to the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. We are committed to fostering a workplace where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, reflecting the rich diversity of the communities we serve.
We actively encourage individuals of all backgrounds – including but not limited to; gender, age, ethnicity, race, cultural heritage, disability, religion and sexual orientation to submit an application. We strive to ensure that every stage of the recruitment process and overall employee experience is accessible, welcoming and free from barriers.
