Do you want your work to make a difference for NSW?
Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage.
- Lead bold action for threatened species and thriving ecosystems.
- Ongoing full-time opportunity
- Based in Coffs Harbour with hybrid working supported
- Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $134,421 to $148,239 + super
Our Ecosystems and Threatened species team is currently seeking to appoint a Team Leader.
The Ecosystems and Threatened Species (EaTS) branch leads the design, implementation and continuous improvement of programs that support the conservation of ecosystems, threatened species and threatened ecological communities. The North East EaTS team engages and collaborates with individual landholders, community, non-government organisations and other government partners to implement on-ground projects for threatened plants, animals and ecosystems to protect, restore and enhance the natural environment.
The team develops, reviews and provides input into threatened species conservation projects, native vegetation and planning legislation, policy, guidelines, plans, databases, decision-making tools and information for the community. The team also provides expert advice to other branches within DCCEEW for strategic land-use planning and environmental impact assessments and compliance matters.
About the role
As the Team Leader, Ecosystems and Threatened Species, you’ll play a key role in protecting and enhancing biodiversity across NSW. Leading a multidisciplinary team, you’ll drive the delivery of regional conservation programs and guide efforts to recover threatened species across diverse landscapes.
In this leadership role, you will coordinate the planning, prioritisation and implementation of strategies that support long-term ecological outcomes. You’ll work closely with local councils, landholders, community groups, Aboriginal communities, and government partners to build strong relationships, influence decision-making and champion conservation initiatives that make a tangible impact.
Your expertise will help shape contemporary and responsive approaches to threatened species recovery. You’ll provide trusted advice on environmental legislation, policy and program delivery, while fostering knowledge-sharing and capability-building within your team and across the broader network.
If you’re passionate about safeguarding biodiversity, enjoy working collaboratively with a wide range of stakeholders, and are energised by leading people to deliver meaningful environmental outcomes, this role offers a rare opportunity to make a lasting difference for the ecosystems and species that define our state.
About You
We are looking for an experienced and passionate conservation leader who is committed to protecting biodiversity and driving meaningful environmental outcomes across NSW. You’ll bring strong technical knowledge of ecosystems and threatened species management, paired with the ability to lead, motivate and develop a multidisciplinary team.
You excel at building trusted relationships and working collaboratively with a wide range of stakeholders—local councils, landholders, Aboriginal communities, government partners and community groups. You’re a confident communicator who can influence, negotiate and engage others in complex or sensitive conservation issues.
You’ll thrive in a dynamic environment where you can think strategically, plan effectively and navigate competing priorities. Your judgement, adaptability and problem‑solving skills will support the delivery of high‑quality, evidence‑based conservation programs that align with government priorities.
You’re someone who enjoys stepping into a role where your leadership, expertise and commitment to ecological outcomes will make a genuine, lasting difference. If you’re driven by purpose and motivated to lead impactful work that benefits both people and nature, we’d love to hear from you.
Essential Requirements
- A degree in Science or in a relevant natural resource discipline.
- Australian driver’s license.
For more information read the full Role Description: Team Leader Ecosystems and Threatened Species
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.
Participation in the NSW Biodiversity Offsets Scheme (BOS)
Please read the Biodiversity Offsets Scheme Protocol to understand if it applies to your circumstances. All applicants for this role and new employees with an existing defined interest in the BOS will be required to disclose their personal (or a close family member’s) participation to ensure potential conflict of interests are declared and managed appropriately.
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 note to be eligible to apply for this position you must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, or hold a valid Australian working Visa for the duration of the appointment.
Applications close Sunday 8th March 2026 at 11:55PM.
Should you require further information about the role please contact Brian Tolhurst via brian.tolhurst@dcceew.nsw.gov.au or on 0266598277
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 Lila Snow on 02 9995 5095 (please mention reference number 547605).
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.
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Role Description
