3 x Team Leaders | 554031

Do you want your work to make a difference for NSW?
Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage.

• Lead science that supports the conservation or restoration of NSW's landscapes, ecosystems and threatened species
• Temporary full-time (35 hours per week) opportunities available
• Parramatta office location upon negotiation across NSW, hybrid working supported
• Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $148,339 to $163,480 per annum + super
  
  
  

Our Science and Insights team is seeking to appoint 3 x Team Leaders to lead high-impact scientific programs that support biodiversity conservation, restoration science, environmental decision-making and evidence-based policy across NSW.

These opportunities sit within the Conservation and Restoration Science branch and play a critical role in delivering science that informs conservation and restoration outcomes across the state. Depending on the team, you may lead the development and application of ecosystem restoration science, biodiversity offset science, drive threatened species research and monitoring programs under the Saving our Species initiative or lead other specialist scientific projects that provide the evidence base for biodiversity management and conservation planning. In each role, you'll lead talented teams of scientists and technical specialists, oversee complex programs and projects, provide trusted scientific advice, and work closely with government, research, industry and community stakeholders to deliver practical outcomes that support NSW's unique biodiversity.

This is a unique opportunity to influence conservation priorities, shape environmental policy and programs, and lead work that has a lasting impact on biodiversity outcomes across New South Wales.

About You
You’re an experienced scientific leader with a passion for biodiversity conservation and a proven ability to lead people, projects and programs in complex environmental settings. Whether your expertise lies in biodiversity assessment, threatened species conservation, ecological research, environmental science or a related field, you bring the scientific credibility, strategic mindset and leadership capability needed to guide high-performing teams and deliver meaningful outcomes.

You thrive in environments where science informs real-world decisions and are motivated by the opportunity to influence conservation policy, research and management practices across NSW. An engaging and collaborative leader, you build strong relationships, communicate complex information with clarity and confidence, and foster a culture of innovation, accountability and continuous improvement. With experience balancing competing priorities, managing stakeholders and navigating complex challenges, you can translate scientific evidence into practical solutions that contribute to better outcomes for nature, communities and future generations.

Essential Requirements

• Degree in Science or relevant field and/or relevant professional experience
• A current Class C driver licence and a willingness and ability to travel for work
  

With 3 distinct Team Leader opportunities available, this recruitment offers the chance to apply your expertise in different areas of conservation and restoration science while contributing to a shared purpose: protecting and restoring biodiversity across NSW. Whether your passion is biodiversity offsets, ecosystem restoration, threatened species recovery, ecological research or applied conservation science, you'll have the opportunity to lead important work, develop talented teams and make a genuine difference to the environment.

For more information read the full Role Description:

• Team Leader - Restoration Science| temporary up to 31 Dec 2030
• Team Leader - Saving our Species Science & Research | temporary up to 30 Jun 2029
• Team Leader - Biodiversity Offsets Science | temporary up to 30 Jun 2027
  
  

About the Team - Science & Insights
Science & Insights sits within the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW), which works to protect the state’s environment and heritage while driving a sustainable future for NSW.

Working at the intersection of science, policy and delivery, Science & Insights collaborates across government, academia, industry and communities to identify priority issues and deliver practical, high-impact solutions.

The division brings together six specialist branches spanning conservation and restoration, climate and atmospheric science, environmental protection, remote sensing and landscape science, science impact and assessment, and water, wetlands and coastal science.

Together, these teams provide the evidence, expertise and insights needed to understand NSW’s environment, manage risks and drive sustainable outcomes.

The division’s work is focused on building a strong evidence base, advancing innovation in how data is gathered and used, and translating complex scientific information into clear, actionable insights and advice. Through scientific rigour, partnerships and knowledge sharing, Science & Insights plays a critical role in protecting, restoring and strengthening the resilience of NSW’s environment for future generations.

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.

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.

To Apply
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 15 November 2026 at 11:55PM.

Should you require further information about the role please contact Jane Degabriel via Jane.DeGabriel@environment.nsw.gov.au or on 0400 697 256.

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.

Looking for more information or assistance in applying?

• How to apply for public service roles and prepare an application.
• 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.
• Information and support for veterans transitioning into government careers.
  

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 Alexandra Blair on 02 8275 1761 (please mention reference number 554031).

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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