Do you want your work to make a difference for NSW?
Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage.
As the Principal Program Manager, you will lead the design and management of Branch level programs. Working across biodiversity certification, conservation planning, Biodiversity Assessment Report audit and other branch priorities, you will lead stakeholder engagement and program coordination activities that support delivery of strategic biodiversity conservation outcomes across NSW.
You will work closely with SES, the Branch leadership team, technical experts and regional teams to translate strategic priorities into practical work programs, coordinate delivery activities, including oversight of budget, risk, compliance, finance and client service management, and identify opportunities for program improvement and provide clear, evidence-based advice to support decision making.
The role provides significant exposure to senior leaders and external stakeholders and requires someone who can successfully navigate complex issues, build productive relationships and bring together diverse perspectives to achieve shared outcomes.
This is an opportunity to influence how CPA engages with stakeholders, plans its work and delivers key biodiversity outcomes for NSW.
About You
You are a highly capable program, program management and stakeholder engagement professional with skills and experience operating in complex environments with multiple priorities and competing demands.
You are confident facilitating discussions, building consensus and working across organisational boundaries to coordinate work and achieve outcomes. You bring strong judgement, excellent communication skills and the ability to translate complex information into practical recommendations and advice for senior decision-makers.
You are comfortable working in ambiguity, bringing structure and focus to emerging priorities, and helping teams convert strategic objectives into clear, achievable work programs.
Most importantly, you are an excellent relationship builder who enjoys working with stakeholders, influencing outcomes and helping others deliver successful programs.
Key knowledge and experience
- Demonstrated experience delivering complex programs on time which have achieved key outcomes.
- Demonstrated experience in stakeholder engagement on complex and high-profile issues.
- Demonstrated experience in providing policy, strategic and operational advice and recommendations at a senior level.
Essential requirements
- Relevant tertiary qualifications and/or extensive experience in a similar role involving delivering complex projects on time which have achieved key outcomes.
For more information read the full Role Description: Principal Program Manager CPO EO12 RD
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: Tuesday, 13 October 2026 at 11:55PM.
Should you require further information about the role please contact Page Perry via page.perry@dcceew.nsw.gov.au or on 0417 385 649.
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 02 9995 5011 (please mention reference number 553166).
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
