Principal Project Officer

• 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

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

Working to protect the state's environment and heritage.

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.

About You

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 setting

"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."

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

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

South Coast Branch Overview

Why Join Us at the South Coast Branch?

• Lead meaningful projects that enhance public access and safety in some of NSW's most iconic natural landscapes.
• Be part of a passionate and collaborative team within NPWS.
• Enjoy flexible work arrangements, professional development, and the opportunity to make a lasting impact.

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. Please directly address the 'about you' section above in your cover letter.

Applications close Sunday 31 August at 11:55PM.

Should you require further information about the role please contact Hiring Manager Julie Peterson via

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 or contacting Ronda Swaysland on please mention reference number

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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