Do you want your work to make a difference for NSW?
Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage.
- Aboriginal Targeted opportunities (Healthy Country Program Engagement Officer x2)
- 2x Ongoing full-time opportunities
- Located in Dubbo and Riverina (one role in each location)
- Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $115,817 to $130,667 + super
This is a targeted role under GSE Rule 26 and Aboriginal people are encouraged to apply.
Our Water for the Environment team is currently seeking to appoint two Healthy Country Program Engagement Officers that will coordinate the delivery of a range of projects for external stakeholders, to support Aboriginal community contributions and self-determination in water management and planning. You will support and advise on the on-going integration of Aboriginal cultural principles, protocols and practices in Water for the Environment Program projects and methods as part of partnering with Aboriginal communities on Country.
About You
To be successful in the role, you will bring strong project management capability and the ability to coordinate complex work programs, knowledge of water policy in NSW including the Murray Darling Basin Plan, alongside well-developed communication skills to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders. You will demonstrate cultural capability and a genuine commitment to working respectfully with Aboriginal communities, including an understanding of cultural protocols and a willingness to listen, learn and adapt your approach. Your ability to build trusted relationships, think critically, and navigate complex and sensitive issues will be key, as will your initiative in identifying opportunities for meaningful collaboration. You will also bring the ability to translate complex information into clear, accessible communication, while managing competing priorities and delivering results within agreed timeframes, budgets and quality standards.
Key knowledge and experience
- Demonstrated understanding working with Aboriginal people, government organisations, natural resource management and communities with the ability to communicate across cultures.
- Demonstrated experience in delivering community-based projects.
- Established network with Aboriginal communities in NSW.
Essential requirements
- Tertiary qualifications or comparable experience in a related discipline.
- Current NSW Driver’s license.
- Willingness to travel (including regional and city-based travel), including willingness to stay overnight in non-established camps in remote areas.
For more information read the full Role Description: Healthy Country Program Engagement 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 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 28 June 2026 at 11:55PM.
Should you require further information about the role please contact Kaleana Reyland via Kaleana.Reyland@dcceew.nsw.gov.au or on 0407 031 180.
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 Tori Basnet on 0400 543 556 (please mention reference number 550841).
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
