• Principal Project Officer
• Ongoing Full -time opportunity (35 hours per week)
• Office location – Location flexible within NPWS South Coast Branch (Wollongong/Nowra/Narooma/Merimbula)
• Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $149,739 to $173,174 + employers superannuation contributions

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 DO

About NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service
Visit a park
South Coast Branch Overview

ABOUT THE ROLE

Are you a strategic thinker with a passion for driving impactful projects? We’re seeking a dynamic Principal Project Officer to lead a high-performing team delivering capital and asset improvement initiatives and projects in a natural setting. The role supports the goals of the South Coast Branch of the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) to deliver meaningful on-ground outcomes for the community.

As the Principal Project Officer, you will:

• Lead the Capital and Assets Team, overseeing the strategic delivery of construction projects across South Coast National Parks.
• Manage a geographically dispersed team to deliver high-priority projects including:
• Visitor asset and facility renewals and upgrades
• Roads and fire trail improvements
• Operational infrastructure enhancements
• Oversee the South Coast asset management system, ensuring quality outcomes across both visitor and operational assets.
• Ensure excellence in project management, procurement, contract administration, and project governance.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to align project delivery with strategic objectives.
• Be comfortable with frequent overnight travel across the region (Wollongong to Eden) to support project delivery and team coordination.

ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS – AS DETAILED IN THE ROLE DESCRIPTION

• 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

You will bring to this role:

• Demonstrated experience in leading complex capital works or infrastructure projects.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to manage remote teams and drive performance.
• Expertise in procurement, contract management, and stakeholder engagement.
• An understanding of asset management principles, preferably within a government or environmental context.
• Relevant qualifications in project management, construction, engineering, or a related field.
• Experience in the delivery of projects in a natural settin