Senior Project Officer

• Location:Darwin (relocating to new office premises in Berrimah in early 2026) / and Jabiru (West Arnhem)
• Status: Full-time
• Annual Salary: $102,674 per annum plus 15% superannuation

Support Traditional Owners in managing minerals and energy projects across the Top End

About the Resources and Energy Team

The NLC's Resources and Energy Service Area manages the Council's statutory responsibilities under the Aboriginal Land Rights (Northern Territory) Act 1976 and the Native Title Act 1993 in relation to mining, petroleum, and other resource activities.

The team works closely with Traditional Owners, government, and industry to ensure all exploration and development on Aboriginal land occurs with free, prior, and informed consent, and that outcomes deliver transparent, accountable, and culturally appropriate benefits.

Staff in this area play a key role in negotiating agreements, managing compliance, and ensuring resource projects are carried out lawfully and respectfully on Aboriginal land.

About the Role

As a Senior Project Officer, you will coordinate minerals and energy projects on Aboriginal land from exploration through to closure.

You'll plan and deliver on-country consultations, prepare statutory documentation, and support Traditional Owners and Native Title holders to make informed decisions about proposed activities.

You'll work closely with colleagues across the NLC, as well as with government and industry representatives, to ensure that all projects are conducted in accordance with the Aboriginal Land Rights (NT) Act 1976, the Native Title Act 1993, and NLC procedures.

This role requires strong project management and communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work respectfully with Aboriginal people in cross-cultural settings.

About You

You're someone who brings technical understanding, sound judgement, and professionalism to complex projects.

You will bring:

• At least five (5) years' experience in the minerals, energy, or related sectors;
• Proven ability to lead consultations and negotiations with Aboriginal groups, government, and industry;
• Strong analytical and communication skills, including the ability to interpret and present technical information;
• Knowledge of the Aboriginal Land Rights (NT) Act 1976 and the Native Title Act 1993;
• A commitment to cross-cultural engagement and ethical practice; and
• A current NT C Class driver's licence and willingness to travel to remote regions by 4WD and light aircraft.

A degree in earth or natural sciences, environmental management, or a related field will be highly regarded.

For a full copy of the Position Description refer to the link provided below.

Why Join the NLC?

At the NLC, you'll work with purpose, ensuring that decisions about resource use on Aboriginal land are made lawfully, transparently, and with respect for Traditional Owners' rights.

We offer:

• Base salary $102, % superannuation
• Salary packaging up to $15,900 p.a. (+ $2,650 meals/accommodation)
• District allowance: $2,678 (with dependents) or $4,884 (without)
• Five (5) weeks annual leave, 18 days personal leave, and
• Opportunities for fieldwork across the Top End and Arnhem Land if based in Darwin
• Relocation assistance and housing for the Jabiru-based position

Location and Workplace

The NLC's Darwin office will relocate to a new, purpose-built facility in Berrimah in early 2026.

The Jabiru-based position offers a unique opportunity to live and work in West Arnhem Land, supporting local communities and Traditional Owners on-country. Relocation assistance and housing is available for the Jabiru role.

Important Dates,

The NLC's annual close-down period runs from 22 December 2025 to 4 January 2026.

New Darwin-based employees will commence from 20 January 2026.

The Jabiru position will commence as soon as a suitable candidate is identified.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a short cover letter outlining your interest in the role and your relevant experience.

A full copy of the Position Description is available via the link below.

For further information, please contact Emma Muntz on

Applications close: 24 November 2025.

About the Northern Land Council

The NLC is an independent statutory authority established under the Aboriginal Land Rights (Northern Territory) Act 1976. We represent Traditional Owners and Aboriginal communities across the Top End, supporting their aspirations for land, sea, and cultural management.

We are committed to equity, inclusion, and cultural safety, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds who share these values.

Be part of work that ensures Aboriginal people can make informed decisions about resource use on their land.