Principal Policy Officer

Are you a strong policy thinker with a passion for sustainability, leadership and high impact work? We're looking for a Principal Policy Officer to join our Vegetation Policy team, part of the Lands Policy and Support unit at the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development. In this permanent role, you'll lead the development of vegetation and soils related policies, operational guidelines and project initiatives that align with Queensland Government priorities. Located in Brisbane or one of several regional offices (including Toowoomba, Gympie, Bundaberg, Rockhampton, Emerald, Mackay, Townsville or Cairns), this role offers true flexibility.
**Key responsibilities include**:
Leading research and developing authoritative advice on vegetation management policy, mapping frameworks and legislative interpretation. You'll oversee project delivery, collaborate with stakeholders across government and non-government sectors, and ensure your team is equipped and motivated to meet high performance standards. You'll also prepare complex policy submissions, briefing notes, legislation and reports for senior leadership and executive review. This is an exciting opportunity to step into a senior leadership role with meaningful environmental and legislative outcomes, where your strategic thinking and experience in complex policy environments will be highly valued.
**We're looking for someone who**:
Has strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to influence, negotiate and lead.
Is confident managing multiple complex projects and policy processes.
Can analyse and solve problems with a forward thinking, solutions-oriented mindset.
Has experience leading a team and supporting professional growth.
Is knowledgeable in natural resource management policy and legislation (highly regarded).
Brings a positive contribution to a respectful, diverse, and inclusive team culture.
This role is perfect for someone who thrives on complexity, works well in a fast-paced policy environment and is motivated by delivering outcomes that shape Queensland's future land management practices.
Why join us?
We are committed to being a workplace that focusses on people. This is about building resilience, encouraging innovation, and understanding that learning is a journey that never ends. We promote a safe, inclusive and respectful place to work where all staff feel valued. We are a mobile, flexible and agile workforce. We live by our guiding principles - proactive, courageous, pragmatic, collaborate, resilient and respectful - underpinned by the Queensland public service values.
What we offer?
Competitive superannuation and salary sacrificing options
Flexible working options that encourage a healthy work-life balance
A variety of fantastic leave provisions, supported across the broader Queensland public sector
Rewarding professional career development and training opportunities
Relocation assistance and provisions
Have visible impact in your community and directly contribute to making good jobs, better services and a great lifestyle for all Queenslanders.
Work in an inclusive work culture while making an impactful difference for all Queenslanders. To know more about the benefits of working with the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development click here
Discover a purpose-driven career with the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development. Unleash your potential, grow, and #MakeADifference
Applications to remain current for 12 months.This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Australia License.