Principal Project Officer

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

                                 Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage 

• Principal Project Officer (Clerk Grade 11-12)
• Package includes salary ($154,231.00 - $178,369.00), employer's contribution to superannuation
• Temporary Full-time Opportunity available till 22 September 2027
•  Located at Anna Bay or Newcastle (negotiable)

About the role

National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has a unique opportunity for a Principal Project Officer (Joint Management) to work as part of the team and contribute towards conservation and management of protected areas managed by NPWS working closely with Aboriginal joint management partners. These partnerships include but not limited to the Worimi Conservation Lands lease agreement and the Saltwater Memorandum of Understanding. 

As the Principal Project Officer (Joint Management), you will have a leadership role in implementing the NPWS Aboriginal Joint Management program in Hunter Central Coast Branch. You will lead and manage a small team that provides important support the Worimi Conservation Lands Board of Management functions, governance and financial management and financial reporting.

About You

To be successful, the role is required to work collaboratively with Aboriginal joint management partners and representatives, and a range of teams within NPWS, other government agencies and external stakeholders. You will need:

• knowledge and experience in working with Aboriginal community representatives, and preferably within a joint management context
• to be adaptable and flexible in managing competing priorities in a demanding work environment
• have excellent problem solving and critical thinking skills to develop and deliver on a program of works, and extensive experience in planning, implementing and managing projects
• the ability to work within Aboriginal joint management governance arrangements and established planning and delivery frameworks

Essential requirements:

• Appropriate tertiary qualifications or demonstrated equivalent, relevant professional experience.
• Demonstrated project management skills and experience along with strong organisational skills to plan, manage and deliver multiple projects on time and within resources
• Thorough understanding and knowledge of financial, governance and risk management standards and practices associated with project management

For more information read the full Role Description: Principal Project Officer and Statement of Works

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.

What we can offer you

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service is a great place to expand your career and grow your skills and knowledge.

• Accrued days off in addition to Annual Leave
• Corporate wellbeing programs, including the Fitness Passport
• Learning and development opportunities, including in-house training.

What we do

About NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service

Visit a park

Hunter Central Coast Branch Overview

Aboriginal joint management of parks

To Apply

If excited by the information above, we look forward to receiving your application, including a copy of your resume (maximum 4 pages) and cover letter (maximum 2 pages) addressing the focus capabilities in the Field Officer role description and expressing your interest and suitability for the role.

Applications close – Tuesday, 1 September 2026 at 11:55PM.

Should you require further information about the role please contact Mitch Carter, Director Hunter Central coast via Mitchell.Carter@dcceew.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 Naz Keya via naz.keya@dcceew.nsw.gov.au (please mention reference number 552635).

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 at AEX@dcceew.nsw.gov.au for a yarn. 

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