- Fisheries and Forestry
- Reference number: 509711
- Occupation: Environmental, Policy, Projects, Estuary, Marine and Coastal Management
- Work type: Full-Time
- Location: Statewide
- Salary Information: Clerk Grade 11/12
- Closing date: 24 July 2026 at 11:55pm
- Shape the future of NSW’s aquatic ecosystems by leading policy, science and environmental decision-making that delivers lasting conservation outcomes.
- Lead a high-performing team tackling complex environmental challenges and influencing statewide programs and legislation.
- Make an impact where it matters by working with government, industry and communities to protect and restore NSW’s waterways.
- Ongoing Clerk Grade 11/12, $154,231.00 to $178,369.00
- Open to all NSW locations with a focus on coastal
The Program Leader Aquatic Ecosystem Assessment leads a high-performing team responsible for protecting and managing NSW’s aquatic ecosystems and fisheries resources. The role oversees aquatic habitat assessment, legislative approvals under the Fisheries Management Act, coastal fish kill coordination, and provides strategic leadership across policy, regulation and environmental management.
Working across government, industry and the community, you will provide expert advice, lead complex projects, influence policy development and drive initiatives that support the sustainable management of NSW’s aquatic environments.
We are looking for an individual who can:
- Lead a multidisciplinary team delivering aquatic ecosystem assessment, legislative approvals and fish kill response activities.
- Provide strategic advice on fisheries legislation, policy and aquatic ecosystem management.
- Lead complex projects, strategic planning and stakeholder engagement to deliver program priorities.
- Prepare high-quality briefings, reports, submissions and advice for senior executives and government.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with government agencies, industry, Aboriginal communities, environmental organisations and other key stakeholders.
- Negotiate complex issues and facilitate collaborative solutions that support sustainable fisheries and aquatic conservation outcomes.
- Foster a positive, safe and high-performing team culture that values collaboration, continuous improvement and wellbeing.
About You
You are an experienced leader with strong strategic thinking, sound judgement and the ability to influence outcomes in complex environments. You enjoy working collaboratively, building trusted relationships and leading teams to deliver meaningful environmental outcomes.
You will bring:
- Experience leading and developing high-performing teams.
- Strong knowledge of environmental, fisheries or natural resource management policy and legislation.
- Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement and negotiation skills.
- Demonstrated experience delivering complex programs and providing strategic advice to senior decision-makers.
- The ability to analyse complex issues and develop practical, evidence-based solutions.
- A commitment to integrity, collaboration, customer service and the values of the NSW public sector.
- A strong focus on workplace health, safety and staff wellbeing.
Applying for the role
Apply online by submitting a current resume (max 3 pages) and brief cover letter (max 2 page) that outlines your skills and experience relevant to the role.
A downloadable copy of the Role Description is linked for your reference.
Additionally, if you would like to hear more about this role, please contact Cameron Lay, Director Freshwater Fisheries & Threatened Species via Cameron.lay@dpird.nsw.gov.au or 0428 780 060
Closing Date: 11:55pm, Friday 24 July 2026
What to expect next
Once you submit your application, you’ll receive an email confirmation. After the advertisement closes, all applications will be reviewed by the hiring manager and selection panel. If shortlisted, you may be invited to an interview—this could be in person, over the phone, or via video. You may also be asked to complete role-related tasks, such as a written assessment, skills test, or psychometric assessment.
Reference checks will be conducted for candidates progressing to the final stages.
The successful applicant may also be required to undergo a police check, health assessment, and other relevant checks as part of the recruitment process.
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 talent.advisory@dpird.nsw.gov.au or contact the hiring manager listed above for a confidential discussion.
About Us
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is the department dedicated to growing primary industries and supporting regional economic development to deliver long term benefits to the state. Our focus is to protect, support and develop our primary industries, mining sector, and regions.
The department brings together Agriculture & Biosecurity; Forestry & Fishing; Local Land Services; NSW Resources; Regional Development & Delivery; the Regional Growth NSW Development Corporation; NSW Public Works and Soil Conservation Service.
We have nearly 5,000 employees, with almost 80 per cent of us living and working in regional NSW.
Why work for Us?
We work hard every day to support and grow thriving communities across regional NSW that will have a positive impact on generations to come. Our goal is always to be a trusted local partner and problem-solver working deeply in community.
As part of our team, you will be able to:
- Deliver with impact. You are empowered and trusted to create impact through exposure to cutting edge projects and research, career defining opportunities, and get to be part of a team creating sustainable solutions that will leave a legacy.
- Connect to what matters. We are all about forming deep community relationships, fostering our passionate and connected teams. It is central to our work to support a true sense of belonging across the team.
- Live your way. From bringing your whole self to work, through to designing flexibility, that fits you and the team, at Regional NSW you will be able to find the balance that works for you.
We are a young agency, but with that has come a personality that is dedicated, passionate, proactive, influential, and informed. We’re all about ‘having a crack’.
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 eighteen months.
Diversity, equity and inclusion are central to the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. We are committed to fostering a workplace where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, reflecting the rich diversity of the communities we serve.
We actively encourage individuals of all backgrounds – including but not limited to; gender, age, ethnicity, race, cultural heritage, disability, religion and sexual orientation to submit an application. We strive to ensure that every stage of the recruitment process and overall employee experience is accessible, welcoming and free from barriers.
