Principal Scientist

• Permanent ongoing opportunity
• Location: All of NSW
• Our employees work principally in the workplace
• Clerk Grade 11/12, salary from $149,739 plus super and leave loading

Diversity and inclusion are core DPIRD values. Everyone has the right to contribute and participate to their full potential. We are committed to supporting a diverse and inclusive culture that is respectful, welcoming and flexible – a workplace where our people feel supported, valued, and part of our collective success.

About the role

We are currently seeking a Principal Scientist (Team Lead) to join NSW Public Works (NSW PW), a division of the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD). You will lead and manage a team that provides land use planning pathway advice and environmental impact assessment services relating to the delivery of many forms of infrastructure across NSW.

The team must remain responsive to our client needs by delivering projects that meet agreed quality levels, timeframes and budgetary constraints.

About You

You will demonstrate a high level of experience in managing large and complex environmental assessment projects, including management of sub-consultants in specialist fields. You will be required to build and maintain strong relationships both within and outside NSW PW, have capacity to acquire in-depth knowledge of clients and their portfolios, and exhibit strong stakeholder management skills while contributing to the technical and financial performance of the team.

To be successful in this role, our ideal candidate will have the following:

• Extensive experience in leading a team of specialists, together with business development capabilities and commitment to continuous improvement principles
• Possess a collaborative and flexible leadership style with a strong emphasis on coaching and mentoring staff at all levels of their careers
• Degree in environmental science, environmental planning or similar relevant qualification, and have eligibility for membership of a relevant professional association and/or accreditation as a Certified Environmental Practitioner (CEnv.P), or extensive and focussed relevant experience
• A valid NSW Driver's Licence and willingness to drive to remote locations, which may include overnight stays.

If you have the capability to achieve success in this role and are interested in creating a more prosperous NSW, we would love to hear from you

About Us

NSW Public Works (NSWPW) plays a significant role in the development of our state, our regions, and our infrastructure and associated industries, by supporting local and state government agencies to deliver critical infrastructure initiatives. We do this by providing: expert advisory services; planning, design and delivery management; sustainability, asset management and support services. Our work is in the community facilities, hospitals, dams, water treatment plants, housing and high schools – the real foundations of prosperous communities. Every day we help shape the ambitious projects that bring progress to more people in NSW. From forging a more sustainable relationship with the land around us, to engineering the big ideas of the future. In every challenge we see the chance to build stronger and more connected communities.

Together, we are DPIRD

The New South Wales Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) protects, supports and develops primary industries and regional economies.

Collectively we support strong and sustainable agriculture, forestry, fishing and mining industries, and regional economies. We actively manage our natural assets: our lands and soils, minerals, waterways and oceans, vegetation and forests.

The department brings together:

• Local Land Services

• NSW Resources

• Agriculture and Biosecurity

• Fisheries and Forestry

• Regional Development and Delivery

With nearly 5,000 employees, and 75 per cent of the DPIRD team living and working in regional NSW, we are embedded in the regions we serve.

Learn more about the benefits of joining our diverse and talented DPIRD team.

Applying for the role

Please review the role description and submit your up-to-date resume (up to 2 pages) and cover letter (1-2 pages) explaining your interest and motivation in applying for this role and highlighting your relevant skills.

For more information about the role, please click here to view the role description.

The selection process may include a range of assessment techniques to assist hiring managers in determining your suitability for the role.

For role-related questions, please contact David Mason, A/Director Heritage Environment and Planning via or at

Closing Date: Thursday 28 August 2025 at 11:55pm

Additional Information

A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary roles of the same role or role type that may become available for filling over the next 18 months.

If you require adjustments in completing your application, interviewing, completing any pre- employment testing, require information in an alternative format, or otherwise participating in the recruitment process, please let us know so we can assist. Send an email to or contact the hiring manager listed below for a confidential discussion.