Principal Scientist Remote Sensing

Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage.

• Lead remote sensing science that shapes statewide vegetation monitoring and environmental decision-making across NSW.
• Permanent, full-time opportunity (35 hours per week)
• NSW location negotiable includes Dubbo, Alstonville, Newcastle, Parramatta, Grafton, hybrid working supported
• Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $157,257 to $172,589 + super

Our Remote Sensing and Landscape Science Branch is currently seeking to appoint a Principal Scientist - Remote Sensing to design and drive the delivery of remote sensing research projects that maintain and enhance NSW operational vegetation monitoring programs.

As the Principal Scientist you will provide remote sensing expertise to influence the development of vegetation monitoring products to support NSW government in meeting environmental outcomes.

In this role you will maintain an extensive network of remote sensing research contacts across state government agencies and universities to facilitate close collaboration on satellite based sensors and remote sensing applications.

You will have relevant scientific qualifications and demonstrated experience in leading remote sensing research projects at a statewide scale in environmental science.

This is a unique opportunity for an experienced remote sensing scientist to join a dedicated and highly regarded vegetation monitoring team and be a key contributor to the development of national earth observation technologies and environmental outcomes for the people of NSW. 

• High-level technical knowledge of remote sensing techniques and applications demonstrated remote sensing program experience and extensive contacts in the remote sensing field.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and leading rigorous, discrete, remote sensing research projects and state scale operational programs in environmental science.
• Experience with a range of airborne and satellite sensors, knowledge of calibration and validation requirements and specifications that impact remote sensing programs historically and into the future.

• Degree qualifications in remote sensing, computer science, spatial science or other related field/and relevant professional experience

For more information read the full Role Description:  Principal Scientist Remote Sensing

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.

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 note to be eligible to apply for this position you must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, or hold a valid Australian working Visa for the duration of the appointment. 

Should you require further information about the role please contact Heidi Mawbey via Heidi.Mawbey@dcceew.nsw.gov.au or on 02 6841 0916.

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.

• 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 dcceew.ta@dpie.nsw.gov.au or contacting Gabriella Schulzer on 9585 6521

(please mention reference number 553555).

If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander use our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for roles or our Aboriginal Career pathways team at AEX@dcceew.nsw.gov.au for a yarn. 

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Advertised: 13 Oct 2026 AUS Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 27 Oct 2026 AUS Eastern Daylight Time

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