Do you want your work to make a difference for NSW?
Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage.
- Lead complex industrial relations matters that shape NSW’s future
- Permanent full-time opportunity
- Office location Parramatta, hybrid working supported
- Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $149,739 to $173,174 + super
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) is seeking an accomplished Principal Consultant, Industrial Relations to lead the resolution of complex employee and industrial relations matters and provide authoritative advice at the most senior levels of the organisation.
This is a high‑impact role for a seasoned IR professional who enjoys operating in complexity, influencing outcomes, and mentoring others—while contributing to work that protects NSW’s environment and supports a sustainable future.
As a Principal Consultant, you will be a trusted expert and strategic advisor within the Industrial Relations team, reporting to the Manager, Industrial Relations. You will lead the management of sensitive and high‑risk employee relations matters, provide advanced advice on performance, discipline and grievances, and act as an advocate for the Department in industrial courts and tribunals. You will also play a key role in shaping IR policy and reform, building organisational capability, and deliver high‑quality outcomes across a large and complex portfolio.
About You
You are a highly experienced and credible industrial relations leader with sound knowledge of NSW industrial relations systems, employment law and contemporary IR issues, complemented by demonstrated experience in advocacy, negotiation and dispute resolution, including appearances before industrial tribunals. You bring strong judgement and independence, with the ability to manage sensitive and complex matters with integrity and professionalism, alongside exceptional communication and stakeholder influencing skills, including experience operating at executive level. You also have a proven ability to lead and develop others, balance competing priorities and consistently deliver high‑quality outcomes under pressure.
Essential Requirements
- Tertiary qualifications in human resources, industrial relations or a related field, and/or equivalent experience.
- Sound knowledge and understanding of NSW industrial relations systems and employment law, and governing legislation, issues and trends.
- Experience in advocacy, negotiation and dispute resolution and in the preparation and presentation of cases at industrial tribunals.
For more information read the full Role Description: Principal Consultant Industrial Relations
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 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 Monday 27th April 2026 at 11:55PM.
Should you require further information about the role please contact Sharyn Gallagher via Sharyn.Gallagher@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 Gemma Battison on 02 8289 6733 (please mention reference number 548770).
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
