Do you want your work to make a difference for NSW?
Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage.
- Principal Project Officer (Environment Officer Class 11)
- Ongoing full-time (35 hours per week) opportunity
- Office location is Parramatta - hybrid working supported
- Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $144,018 to $158,718 + super
Our Divisional Strategy and Coordination (DSC) team is seeking a Principal Project Officer to lead a coordinated, strategic approach to issues management, communications and stakeholder engagement across the Conservation Planning and Offsets (CPO) division. In this role, you will provide timely, high‑quality policy, strategic and operational advice to the Manager DSC, Executive Director and CPO management team to support delivery of key business outcomes, regulatory functions and reform priorities. The position requires strong judgement, the ability to navigate complex and competing priorities, and a commitment to delivering high‑quality, evidence‑based outcomes in a fast‑paced, collaborative environment.
You will oversee the development of strategic messaging, planning tools, governance materials and executive briefings, and you may lead or contribute to high‑profile cross‑agency initiatives, program reviews, reform projects and divisional planning processes. The DSC team operates in a supportive, high‑performing environment that values collaboration, strategic thinking and continuous improvement. You will work closely with subject matter experts, policy teams, program delivery staff and executive stakeholders to support CPO’s broad conservation, planning and regulatory portfolio, ensuring clarity, alignment and strong communication across the division.
About You
To be successful in this role
- Demonstrated experience in strategic communications, stakeholder engagement and providing high‑level advisory support in complex environments.
- Proven ability to identify and influence strategic and policy issues in collaboration with senior leaders and internal stakeholders.
- Experience leading coordinated communication and engagement strategies aligned with divisional and business objectives.
- Strong capability in developing strategic advice and communication products to support complex policy and operational work.
- Ability to use communication insights and analytics to refine and optimise engagement strategies.
- Experience providing strategic support to executives, committees and governance groups, including preparing specialist advice and briefings.
- Knowledge of corporate communication protocols and best practice, with experience supervising and developing communications staff.
Key knowledge and experience
- Experience in the successful implementation of government directives, initiatives, policies, processes, procedures and protocols.
- Demonstrated experience providing thought-leadership and collaboration, partnering with colleagues, stakeholders and customers, providing exceptional customer service delivery.
- Demonstrated experience advising and influencing senior internal stakeholders.
Essential requirements
- Tertiary qualifications in a relevant discipline and/or equivalent relevant experience
For more information read the full Role Description: Principal Project Officer
Who we are
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) works to protect the state’s environment and heritage. It leads the way on climate change, driving the sustainable transition to a net zero economy, powered by affordable, reliable, and clean energy.
DCCEEW conserves and protects the state’s natural environment. It manages the NSW national park estate, including its rich and diverse biodiversity and Aboriginal cultural heritage for future generations.
DCCEEW also ensures sustainable management of water resources across the state, to support the environment, communities and industry.
We acknowledge the ongoing custodial responsibilities of the Aboriginal peoples of NSW to care for Country and water and are committed to establishing meaningful partnerships with Aboriginal peoples in the management of the environment.
To Apply
If excited by the information above, we look forward to receiving your application, including a copy of your resume and cover letter expressing your interest and suitability for the role.
Please also note, to be eligible for an ongoing role in the NSW Public Sector you need to be an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident. For temporary and casual roles, you need to hold a valid visa giving you permission to work in Australia as required by the role.
Applications close: Thursday, 5 February 2026 at 11:55PM.
Should you require further information about the role please contact Shawn Hollbach via shawn.hollbach@environment.nsw.gov.au.
A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary opportunities of the same role or role type that may become available over the next 18 months.
Our goal is to build a workforce that not only represents but also understands and serves the diverse communities of New South Wales. We are committed to making our state a vibrant and inclusive place to live, work, and thrive for everyone. Our workforce represents people of all ages and genders, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disabilities, the LGBTQI+ community, and people from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
Looking for more information or assistance in applying?
If you require an adjustment for your application process, please contact our Talent Acquisition Team by emailing dcceew.ta@dpie.nsw.gov.au or contacting Vithiya Yogarajah on 0482 646 348 (please mention reference number 547280).
If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander use our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for roles or our Aboriginal Career pathways team at AEX@dcceew.nsw.gov.au for a yarn.
Find us on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), YouTube and LinkedIn.
Role Description
