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

Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage.

• DCCEEW Internal expression of interest 
• Temporary full-time role to 30 Jun 2026  
• Any NSW Office location/Parramatta location 
• Salary: Environmental Officer Class 12 - $152,677.00 to $167,562.00 + super + leave loading 

An exciting opportunity is now available to step into the role of Principal Economist (EO12) within the Strategic Policy, Science and Engagement division of DCCEEW. This pivotal position offers the chance to shape economic strategy, influence natural capital markets and play a leading role in building a sustainable future for NSW. 

About the Role 

The Principal Economist role offers the opportunity to provide high level economic leadership that shapes policy and strategy for nature and natural capital markets in NSW. This position will drive evidence-based advice, conduct complex market and investment monitoring and assessments and deliver innovative solutions that help the department lead a sustainable transition for communities, industry and the environment. 

The immediate key priority of the role is to develop and roll out a voluntary nature market and nature investment MERI framework and associated monitoring/tracking tools. The intent is to develop the capability to monitor developments and operations in nature markets, including the level of private capital investment, to support delivery against Plan for Nature Action 22 and proposed amendments to biodiversity conservation legislation. 

About You

We are urgently seeking a motivated and collaborative professional who can apply advanced economic expertise to guide strategic decision making in a complex policy environment. You will bring proven skills in research, analysis and stakeholder engagement along with the ability to lead teams and projects with integrity and vision. Your work will contribute to building resilient natural capital markets that deliver lasting benefits for people and nature across NSW. 

Essential Requirements  

• Satisfactory National Criminal Record Check Clearance 

For more information read the full Role Description:  Principal Economist

To Apply

If excited by the information above, please submit your Expression of Interest to James Bibby directly or hit apply. Please include: 

1. A brief email outlining: 

• Why you’re interested in this opportunity and what you hope to gain from it. 
• What you bring to the role, highlighting your suitability, including your key achievements to support workforce and workplace inclusion. 

2. Your up-to-date CV. 
3. Confirmation that you’ve discussed this opportunity and received endorsement from your manager. 
4. Any questions or clarifications you may have. 

The selection process will include a brief suitability interview and one assessment task, with the start date being ASAP. 

Expressions of Interest will be accepted until COB on Friday, 19 September. 

Should you require further information about the role please contact James Bibby via James.Bibby@dcceew.nsw.gov.au.

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 545182).

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