Do you want your work to make a difference for NSW?

Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage.

• Do you want to be part of a supportive, high functioning team who provide expert advice to support planning and conservation outcomes in central and western NSW?
• One Temporary full time role until 30 June 2027
• Office location – Dubbo, or other NSW location by negotiation
• Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $120,701 to $134,460 + super

The Conservation Programs, Regulation and Heritage Group North West Branch is currently seeking to appoint a temporary Senior Conservation Planning Officer until 30 June 2027 in our Regional Planning Team.  This is an exciting opportunity for someone with a passion for achieving biodiversity conservation outcomes through the NSW planning framework. As a team member you will be part of a very experienced team, expanding your skill base and capabilities while leading a diverse range of projects including state significant development and infrastructure project assessments. The North West Branch area extends west from the Great Dividing Range covering over 50% of the state, encompassing a diverse range of flora and fauna and unique landscapes. Our primary role is providing advice to consent authorities on the adequacy of environmental assessments completed for development applications in accordance with the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016.

What does the Role look like?

• Coordination and provision of biodiversity advice about strategic environmental planning matters to internal and external stakeholders, to ensure optimal natural, environmental and conservation outcomes.
• Reviewing and reporting on biodiversity impacts for major projects, planning proposals, threatened species licences and other development related matters.
• Review and contribute to the development of strategic planning documents and Environmental Planning Instruments, such as State, Regional and Local Environmental Plans in accordance with DCCEEW responsibilities.
• Maintain effective liaison and consultation with internal and external stakeholders to develop cooperative and productive working relationships and seek and convey advice to enhance the effectiveness of strategic and environmental planning.

To be the successful applicate for this position you will have:  

• Knowledge of and experience in interpreting and applying biodiversity conservation and environmental planning assessment legislation and policies across a range of projects
• Experience in the assessment and analysis of strategic and complex conservation proposals
• Experience in leading meetings and liaising with stakeholders to achieve conservation outcomes
• Experience in dealing with contentious issues and challenging stakeholders
• The ability to prepare high quality correspondence for and brief senior staff on key matters
• The ability to risk assess, problem solve and seek pragmatic solutions
• Experience in ecology, botany, or application of the Biodiversity Assessment Method 

Essential Requirements

• Current Drivers Licence

For more information read the full Role Description: Senior Conservation Planning Officer

For more information from LinkedIn hit Apply to visit the iworkfor.nsw.gov.au website.

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.

The Biodiversity, Conservation and Science (BCS) Group within DCCEEW seeks to improve biodiversity outcomes, reduce natural hazard risk and enhance a healthy, productive and resilient environment.

Participation in the NSW Biodiversity Offsets Scheme (BOS) & BCT’s Private Land Conservation (PLC) Programs

All 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 conflicts are managed appropriately. In some circumstances this may require divestment of the interest.

The BCT also has restrictions on staff participation in its funded PLC programs. No additional funding, beyond that already agreed to by the BCT, may be sought or approved during time as a BCT employee or for a 12-month period following termination of employment.

The Department is committed to protecting the public interest and public trust in the exercise of its functions. These values, together with transparency and accountability, are integral to the administration of the BOS and PLC programs.

If you (or a close family member) participate in the BOS scheme or already hold a funded agreement with the BCT and require further information before submitting your application, please contact the hiring manager. 

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.

Applications close: Sunday, 27 April 2025 at 11.55pm.

Should you require further information about the role please contact Candice Larkin via 02 8217 2065 or Candice.Larkin@environment.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? 

• Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace. 

• How we encourage and support people with disability  

• Information and adjustments for individual needs for the recruitment process and the workplace. 

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 0482 646 348 (please mention reference number 541900)  

If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander use our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for roles or contact our Aboriginal Career pathways team for a yarn   

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