Principal Project Officer

• Principal Project Officer (Clerk Grade 11-12)
• Temporary (Up to Date 30 Jun 2028) full-time (35 hours per week) opportunity with possibility of extension.
• Office location Dorrigo- regional location encouraged/Hybrid working supported
• Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $154,231 to $178,369 + super

National Parks and Wildlife Service has a unique opportunity for a Principal Project Officer to work as part of the team to deliver iconic infrastructure projects such as the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre re-development and multi-day walk that support our increasing park visitation and staff accommodation requirements.

As a Principal Project Officer, you will lead the planning, development and delivery of large-scale, complex projects and programs that support the strategic priorities of National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS). You will be responsible for managing projects from inception to completion, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget and to a high standard. Working closely with internal and external stakeholders, you will provide expert project leadership, establish effective governance and risk management frameworks, and drive successful outcomes that contribute to the conservation and sustainable management of NSW's natural and cultural heritage.

• 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 02 9995 5011 (please mention reference number 552119).

If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander use our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for roles or our Aboriginal Career pathways team at AEX@dcceew.nsw.gov.au for a yarn. 

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Advertised: 05 Aug 2026 AUS Eastern Standard Time
Applications close: 19 Aug 2026 AUS Eastern Standard Time

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We are seeking a highly experienced project professional with a proven track record of successfully delivering complex projects in a dynamic and stakeholder-rich environment. You are a strategic thinker with exceptional organisational, communication and stakeholder engagement skills, and can confidently lead multidisciplinary teams to achieve results.

To be successful in this role, you will bring:

• Demonstrated experience leading the delivery of large-scale, complex projects and programs from planning through to implementation.
• Strong project management expertise, including governance, financial management, risk mitigation, reporting and benefits realisation.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement, negotiation and influencing skills, with the ability to build productive relationships across diverse groups.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities, with the ability to manage competing priorities and deliver outcomes in challenging environments.
• Experience leading and motivating project teams, fostering collaboration, accountability and high performance.
• Relevant tertiary qualifications or equivalent professional experience in project management, business, environmental management or a related discipline.
• Experience in the construction or building industry

This is an exciting opportunity for a results-driven professional who is passionate about delivering meaningful projects that support the protection and conservation of NSW's unique natural and cultural assets.

NPWS is committed to building a robust pipeline of talent and ensuring strong representation of women in leadership roles. We aim to achieve a balanced and diverse leadership team. As such, we strongly encourage female candidates who possess the necessary capabilities and experience for these roles to apply.

• 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

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.

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.

About NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service

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North Coast Branch Overview 

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.

Please also note, to be eligible for an ongoing role in the NSW Public Sector you need to be an Australian Citizen, New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident. For temporary and casual roles, you need to hold a valid visa giving you permission to work in Australia as required by the role.