Do you want to work to make a difference for NSW?
Together, we create thriving environments, communities and economies.

• Work in a supportive work environment, providing expert advice to support planning and conservation outcomes in the Hunter Central Coast Region
• Ongoing roles & temporary roles with a range of tenures with the opportunity for extension and/or conversion to ongoing
• Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $116,059 to $129,288 + super

Our Hunter Central Coast Branch is looking for Senior Conservation Planning Officers to join our Regional Planning Team. These exciting roles will work closely with team members and subject matter experts from across the Department to provide advice to external stakeholders on major projects and strategic environmental planning matters, ensuring optimal natural, environmental and conservation outcomes.

What does the Role look like?

• Coordination and provision of advice about strategic environmental planning matters to internal and external stakeholders, to ensure optimal natural, environmental and conservation outcomes.
• Reviewing and reporting on biodiversity impacts for state significant development and infrastructure, planning proposals, threatened species licences and other development related matters.
• Review and contribute to the development of strategic planning documents and Environmental Planning Instruments, such as State, Regional and Local Environmental Plans in accordance with DCCEEW responsibilities.
• Undertake data analysis and related research on threatened species and biodiversity conservation.
• Maintain effective liaison and consultation with internal and external stakeholders to develop cooperative and productive working relationships, and seek and convey advice to enhance the effectiveness of strategic and environmental planning.

To be the successful applicate for this position you will have:

• Knowledge of and experience in the interpretation of legislation, and experience in dealing with environmental planning and assessment issues.
• Experience in the assessment and analysis of strategic and complex conservation proposals.
• Demonstrated capacity to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team in a high volume, complex work environment
• Experience in biodiversity assessment, botany and strategic planning.

Essential Requirements

• Current Drivers Licence

Who we are

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.

The Biodiversity, Conservation and Science (BCS) Group within DCCEEW seeks to improve biodiversity outcomes, reduce natural hazard risk and enhance a healthy, productive and resilient environment.

The Hunter Central Coast Branch of Biodiversity Conservation and Science delivers biodiversity and conservation programs and services across the 11 local government areas within the region.

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.

Participation in the NSW Biodiversity Offsets Scheme (BOS) & BCT’s Private Land Conservation (PLC) Programs

All 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 conflicts are managed appropriately. In some circumstances this may require divestment of the interest.

The BCT also has restrictions on staff participation in its funded PLC programs. No additional funding, beyond that already agreed to by the BCT, may be sought or approved during time as a BCT employee or for a 12-month period following termination of employment.

The Department is committed to protecting the public interest and public trust in the exercise of its functions. These values, together with transparency and accountability, are integral to the administration of the BOS and PLC programs.

If you (or a close family member) participate in the BOS scheme or already hold a funded agreement with the BCT and require further information before submitting your application, please contact the hiring manager. The BOS protocol is available publicly here.

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.