Principal Engineer

• Full-time ongoing
• Location: All of NSW
• Our employees work principally in the workplace
• Salary from $149,739 to $173,174 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.

This role provides the opportunity to be part of the ongoing digital transformation within NSW Public Works and the implementation of our digital environment to support the excellent design and delivery of projects across NSW.

About the role

NSW Public Works (NSW PW) is part of the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development and supports local and state government agencies to delivery critical infrastructure initiatives by providing expert advisory, planning, design, delivery and support services. We are currently seeking a Principal Engineer - Mechanical to join the Water Resource Management Directorate of NSW Public Works (NSW PW). You will report to the Director and lead a team responsible for delivering water and sewerage engineering projects for Water Utilities in Regional NSW.

About You

To undertake this role, it is essential that you have proven experience in managing multi-disciplinary engineering projects within a technical and commercial environment. You will be required to build and maintain strong relationships both within and outside Public Works and have capacity to work with management, staff and clients exhibiting strong stakeholder management skills.

Our ideal candidate will have the following:

• A Mechanical Engineer with about 15 years' experience in the water industry, at least 5 of which should be in design management of projects related to water supply and sewerage.
• High level knowledge of rotary and static equipment design with associated pipework/valves for water, and wastewater infrastructure projects
• High level knowledge of hydraulic aspects and sizing of pumps and water transfer systems
• Competent in preparation of Options reports, Concept designs and Technical specifications
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with high level interpersonal skills
• Experience in the design and delivery of projects in a digital environment
• Proven experience in managing a team with a commercial focus delivering a positive net cost of service.
• Proven experience in advising and guiding the development of junior staff in a team including reviewing work and providing feedback.

You must have a current NSW Driver Licence and willingness to drive to and work in remote locations which may include overnight stays.

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

Apply online by submitting a current resume and brief cover letter that outlines your skills and experience relevant to the role.

For more information about the role, please view the role description  NSW PW Principal Engineer Grade 11-12

Additionally, if you would like to hear more about this role, please contact Glenn Fernandes, Director Water Resources Management on or email

Closing Date: 13 November 2025at 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 across Greater Sydney and our NSW locations over the next eighteen 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 above for a confidential discussion.