Are you an experienced Principal Policy Officer seeking a role in a dynamic and agile team? As a Principal Policy Officer in Statewide Operations, you will lead school policy, projects and programs that directly support our schools.
Applications are invited for the permanent role of A07 Principal Policy Officer, Statewide Operations.

Job details

About the Department:

The Department of Education is dedicated to building an inclusive and diverse workforce that reflects the community and schools we support by treating everyone with respect and dignity. This starts with recruitment and selection. The methods of assessing suitability in the recruitment process may vary. This includes making reasonable adjustments to support applicants at all stages of the process and employee lifecycle.

About the Role:

Statewide Operations is home to 23 school-based procedures, multiple cross-jurisdictional programs, and delivers statewide projects and initiatives that support the department's strategic direction.

You will work collaboratively with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders to influence and drive policy direction and implement practical solutions that support Queensland schools and their communities.

Our ideal candidate will lead tasks and teams across a range of functions, which may include (but are not limited to) procedural reviews, the delivery of strategic projects and programs, and high-level document writing.

Responsibilities Include:

• Undertaking research, analysis, monitoring, review, and evaluation of significant procedures, projects, and programs.
• Liaising with internal and external stakeholders to ensure the effectiveness of procedures, projects, programs, and resources available to schools.
• Designing high-quality documents for publication.
• Managing project and program lifecycles, from initiation to completion, including preparation of project documentation, monitoring project and program data, developing reporting documentation, and evaluating project and program effectiveness.
• Providing timely and accurate responses to requests for policy advice.
• Preparing ministerial briefings and executive responses to correspondence within tight timeframes.
• Performing specific tasks and engaging in ad-hoc activities contributing to broader branch goals.
• Leading the research, analysis, review, and evaluation of complex policy, procedural, and program matters.
• Providing strategic advice and guidance on policy development, program design, and implementation.
• Coordinating and managing projects across their full lifecycle—from initiation and stakeholder engagement to delivery and evaluation.
• Developing clear, high-quality documents for a variety of audiences, including policy papers, communication materials, executive briefings, and ministerial correspondence.
• Building and maintaining productive working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Monitoring and reporting on performance data to support evidence-informed decision-making.
• Contributing to continuous improvement activities and broader branch initiatives.

About You:

This is a unique opportunity to join a collaborative, purpose-driven team working on diverse projects that make a real difference in the education system.

We are looking for experienced policy professionals who:

• Thrive in a dynamic environment and can effectively balance multiple priorities.
• Demonstrate strong analytical and conceptual thinking skills.
• Are confident communicators and effective collaborators.
• Can produce high-quality written work with precision and clarity.
• Are solution-focused and committed to delivering meaningful outcomes for Queensland schools.

The Principal Policy Officer reports to the Manager, Statewide Operations.

Interested? To Apply: 

• Attach a brief resume including contact details for 2 referees (referees should have an understanding of your relevant work history);
• Attach a 2-page response to the How you may be assessed section of the attached role description. 

We welcome all applicants to share any support needed to ensure our recruitment process is inclusive. 

Applications remain current for 12 months from the closing date and may be considered for appointment to identical or similar vacancies within the Department. 

Applications from recruitment agencies will not be accepted. 

When working in regulated employment an employee must have a current Working with Children Clearance (blue card) issued by Blue Card Services.

Further information

We are committed to building inclusive cultures in the Queensland public sector that respect and promote human rights and diversity.

For a full list of the position responsibilities and mandatory requirements, please ensure you download the attached role description and candidate information fact sheet and follow the instructions.

Documents

Before applying for this vacancy please ensure you read the documents below.

• CO634598_25P - Role Description (PDF, 238KB)
  Role Description
  
  Applicant Information Package (PDF, 245KB)
  Information Package for Applicants