Program Officer, Capability, Initiatives and Operations

Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage.

• Building capability, improving practice, delivering outcomes
• Ongoing full-time opportunity
• Office location upon negotiation across NSW, hybrid working supported
• Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $119,292 to $134,587 + super

Our Capability, Initiatives and Operations team is currently seeking to appoint a Program Officer to support the delivery of capability programs, operational initiatives and continuous improvement projects across the Biodiversity and Heritage Regulator (BHR) division.

In this varied role, you will coordinate project activities, undertake research and analysis, develop training and guidance resources, prepare reports and presentations, and support the delivery of workshops and stakeholder engagement activities.

This is a targeted role under GSE Rule 26 and Aboriginal people are encouraged to apply.

The Biodiversity and Heritage Regulator brings together a number of regulatory functions into a single, outcomes-focused, risk-based regulator. Our purpose is to deliver clear, consistent and fair regulation that supports positive outcomes for communities and the environment.

We administer legislation to prevent loss and reduce harm to native species and heritage by helping people to comply through licensing, education and engagement and taking enforcement action when the rules are broken. More information on the regulatory functions of the BHR can be found here.

As a Program Officer, Capability, Initiatives and Operations, you will play a key role in supporting programs and projects that strengthen regulatory capability and operational excellence across the Biodiversity and Heritage Regulator. Working within a collaborative and high-performing team, you will contribute to the design and delivery of capability initiatives, operational improvement projects, stakeholder engagement activities, and learning programs that enhance regulatory practice and business outcomes.

You will undertake research and analysis, develop high-quality resources and communications materials, coordinate project activities, and support the delivery of workshops, training programs, and engagement initiatives. This role offers the opportunity to work across a diverse range of projects, build strong relationships with stakeholders, and contribute to continuous improvement in a complex and evolving regulatory environment.

This is an exciting and challenging opportunity for a motivated and organised professional who enjoys project-based work, is a strong communicator, and can translate complex information into practical solutions. You will thrive in a role that requires initiative, collaboration, problem-solving, and the ability to manage multiple priorities while delivering high-quality outcomes.

Working at DCCEEW, you'll contribute to meaningful work that helps protect and conserve NSW's environment and heritage while supporting the capability and effectiveness of the teams that deliver these important outcomes.

We are looking for a proactive and organised professional with strong project coordination, research and stakeholder engagement skills. You will be a collaborative team player who can manage competing priorities, analyse information, and translate complex or technical concepts into clear and practical resources. With experience supporting projects, programs or operational initiatives, you will be confident preparing high-quality reports, presentations and training materials, and enjoy working with a diverse range of stakeholders to deliver meaningful outcomes. If you are passionate about continuous improvement, capability development and contributing to effective regulatory practice, we would love to hear from you.

• Current NSW driver's licence and ability and willingness to travel throughout the state when required
• Satisfactory criminal records check

For more information read the full Role Description: Program Officer - Capability Initiatives and Operations

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.

Please read the Biodiversity Offsets Scheme Protocol to understand if it applies to your circumstances. All applicants for this role and new employees with an existing defined interest in the BOS will be required to disclose their personal (or a close family member’s) participation to ensure potential conflict of interests are declared and managed appropriately. 

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. 

Applications close Wednesday 12th August 2026 at 11:55PM.

Should you require further information about the role please contact Simon Taylor via simon.taylor@dcceew.nsw.gov.au or on 02 5534 3017

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 Lila Snow on 02 9995 5095 (please mention reference number 551653).

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: 29 Jul 2026 AUS Eastern Standard Time
Applications close: 12 Aug 2026 AUS Eastern Standard Time

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