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

Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage.

• Principal Project Officer (Environment Officer Class 11)
• Ongoing full-time (35 hours per week) opportunity
• Office location is Newcastle - regional location encouraged/Hybrid working supported
• Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $ 144,018 to $ 158,718 p.a. + super

Our Hunter Central Coast team is currently seeking to appoint an ongoing Principal Project Officer (PPO).  This exciting leadership role will work closely with team members and subject matter experts from across the Department and co-ordinate to provide advice to external stakeholders on major projects and on strategic environmental planning matters to ensure optimal natural, environmental and conservation outcomes.

The Hunter Central Coast Branch area extends from the Central Coast to the Mid Coast and west through to the Upper Hunter local government area, encompassing a diverse range of flora and fauna and unique landscapes. Our team provides advice to consent authorities on the adequacy of environmental assessments completed for strategic planning proposals and major project applications in accordance with the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016.

About You

The successful candidate will be expected to work independently on a day-to-day basis while following an established work plan and making decisions within defined boundaries. You will be responsible for delivering assigned tasks and taking direction from the Senior Team Leader on priorities and complex matters.

Additionally, the role requires sound judgement in referring sensitive or complex issues to the Senior Team Leader and Director, who may escalate them to the Executive as needed. You will be responsible for supervising a team and managing their performance through clear goals and performance agreements.

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• Demonstrated 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 planning proposals
• Demonstrated capability in leadership and collaboration
• Experience in managing multidisciplinary teams
• Extensive experience in planning, implementing and managing complex projects to achieve priority objectives
• Proven ability in influencing stakeholders to take action and deliver agreed outcomes.

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.

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.

Applications close: Thursday, 14 August 2025 at 11:55PM.

Should you require further information about the role please contact Hiring Manager via sarah.warner@environment.nsw.gov.au or on 0447 760 203.

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 contacting Vithiya Yogarajah on  0482 646 348 (please mention reference number 544138).

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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