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

Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage.

• Temporary opportunity to 30 June 2027
• Full-time role - 35 hours per week + FlexTime 
• Open to any East Coast NSW office location - hybrid working supported
• Salary ranges from $152,677.00 to $167,652.00 + super + leave loading

Our Regional Delivery Marine Programs team is currently seeking to appoint a Principal Project Officer to lead the development and delivery of marine program and projects that support biodiversity conservation and sustainable marine management in NSW (e.g. Seabirds to Seascapes, Blue Carbon Strategy). In this pivotal role, you will lead a team, collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, manage cross-sector projects and provide high-level program advice to senior executives and government. This role is ideal for a dynamic thinker who thrives in fast-paced environments and is passionate about delivering impactful marine projects and programs.

This is a busy and dynamic position, supporting work to enhance natural values and system outcomes within the marine estate. The role requires balancing multiple concurrent projects in complex policy areas, navigating diverse stakeholder expectations, legislative requirements and limited resources.

The role will require you to manage strategic business planning and the development, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of major programs. These programs will support the achievement of strategic marine and coastal environmental outcomes that are effective, innovative and demonstrate good value for public expenditure in meeting the priority objectives of the organisation and the government.

This is a key leadership position in the Marine Programs team, including the direction and effectiveness of the marine projects and programs that the team delivers.

About You

You are a confident and solutions-focused leader with a strong background in program and project delivery within coastal and marine settings. You thrive in complex, multi-stakeholder environments and are known for your ability to deliver strategic outcomes while maintaining attention to detail and governance.

With deep technical understanding and a passion for impactful delivery, you bring strong leadership, stakeholder engagement and project management skills to the role. You’re comfortable advising senior executives, navigating risks and guiding cross-functional teams toward shared goals.

Essential requirements

• Appropriate degree level tertiary qualification in marine biology, environmental science, natural resources management, or related disciplines.

For more information read the full Role Description: Principal Project 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.

Applications close Sunday, 10 August at 11:55PM.

Should you require further information about the role please contact Michelle Fletcher via michelle.fletcher@environment.nsw.gov.au or on 0477 666 590.

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.

DCCEEW is committed to providing an inclusive candidate experience and through the Disability Confident Recruiter program, identify and remove unintended barriers for candidates.

If you require an adjustment for your application process, please contact our Talent Acquisition Team by emailing dcceew.ta@dpie.nsws.gov.au or contacting Mariam Barakat on 0429 667 238 (please mention reference number 543422).

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

Find us on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), YouTube and LinkedIn.