Do you want your work to make a difference for NSW?
Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage.
- Principal Project Officer
- Full-time opportunity available (35 hours per week), we welcome applications from candidates interested in either ongoing or temporary employment for this role.
- Office location is Flexible - hybrid working supported
- Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $144,018 to $158,718 + super
Our Planning Coordination and Advice team within the Conservation Planning and Assessment branch is seeking a highly capable Principal Project Officer to provide strategic advice to inform executive decision making on biodiversity assessment needed in the planning system, including major projects and for local government and supporting the government’s priorities for housing, infrastructure and energy transition. This role plays a key role in driving strategic biodiversity outcomes, providing expert advice and ensuring that high‑quality evidence and reporting inform key decisions.
In this position, you will provide high‑level expertise, strategic insight and operational leadership to local and state government, industry and proponents on complex planning and environmental matters, with a specific focus on biodiversity. You will contribute to the implementation of the biodiversity offsets scheme, including assessing serious and irreversible impacts on biodiversity.
About You
To be successful in the role you will have experience in the following:
- Providing authoritative, evidence‑based advice on complex biodiversity, planning and environmental issues to support senior decision‑making.
- Applying strong knowledge of NSW planning legislation, policy frameworks and biodiversity assessment to guide strategic work.
- Interpreting complex technical information and distilling it into clear, actionable recommendations.
- Leading complex programs and projects within government or strategic environmental contexts.
- Managing sensitive issues and engaging effectively with diverse stakeholders.
- Preparing high‑quality reports and briefings that meet governance and executive requirements.
- Managing competing priorities and delivering quality outcomes in fast‑paced environments.
- Working collaboratively across multi‑disciplinary teams and contributing to effective problem‑solving and knowledge sharing.
Key knowledge and experience
- Expert statutory and strategic planning advice aligned with NSW legislation and environmental policy frameworks.
- Experience leading complex programs and projects in government or environmental settings.
- Ability to interpret complex environmental and biodiversity issues and provide clear, evidence‑based advice.
- Proven ability to influence senior stakeholders through strong technical judgement.
- Strong stakeholder management skills, including handling sensitive or high‑profile matters.
For more information read the full Role Description: Principal Project Officer EO11
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 (maximum two pages please) 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 Wednesday 25 March 2026 at 11:55PM.
Should you require further information about the role please contact Stacy Warren via stacy.a.warren@dcceew.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 Ronda Swaysland (until 13 March) on 0400 288 239 or after 13 March 2026 until closing date please contact Alex Blair via alex.blair@dcceew.nsw.gov.au or on 02 8275 1761 (please mention reference number 548214).
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
