We are seeking an experienced and motivated Principal Policy Officer to join the Strategy Design team within Governance, Strategy and Planning, in the Strategy and Performance branch of the Department of Education. This role offers the opportunity to lead reviews, evaluation and development of key education and early childhood strategies, policies, and programs, while driving improved evaluative capacity across the department and contributing to evidence-based outcomes that benefit Queensland students and communities.

Job details

Drive Change and Build Capacity Across Education

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Principal Policy Officer to lead key evaluation and strategy initiatives while enhancing evaluative capability across the Department of Education.

About the Role

The Strategy Design team leads the design, development, monitoring, evaluation, and reporting of strategy to support informed decision-making by both internal and external stakeholders. As part of this team, you will:

• Lead and support the design, development, and evaluation of key education and early childhood strategies, policies, and programs that support the department's strategic priorities and continuous improvement.
• Develop and implement evaluation frameworks, strategies and plans to ensure strategies and programs are evidence-based and deliver measurable results.
• Build evaluative capacity and capability across the department by mentoring and supporting team members as well as staff from other areas.
• Collaborate with a wide range of stakeholders to deliver high-quality strategy documents, analysis, insights, and recommendations that align with departmental priorities.
• Produce user-friendly reports, briefings, and communication products to inform decision-making and stakeholder engagement.

What We're Looking For

We are seeking a collaborative and strategic thinker with:

• Strong experience in reviews and evaluation of programs, policies, or strategies, including the development and application of evaluation frameworks.
• A background in strategic policy and/or program design and development.
• Excellent research and analytical skills, with the ability to translate complex information into clear and actionable recommendations.
• Advanced stakeholder engagement and negotiation skills to build productive partnerships across diverse groups.
• High-level communication skills, including the ability to produce concise and impactful written products.
• Strong time management and coordination skills to manage competing priorities effectively.
• A commitment to building capacity in others, with demonstrated experience mentoring or supporting colleagues to develop their skills.

Why Join Us?

This is an exciting opportunity to work in a collaborative and dynamic team environment where your skills will contribute to shaping the future of education in Queensland. The department offers flexible work options, professional development opportunities, and the chance to make a meaningful impact by building evaluative capacity and delivering evidence-based outcomes for students and communities across the state.

Apply Now

If you're ready to take on a leadership role that combines evaluation expertise with strategy and capacity-building, we'd love to hear from you!

• Attach a brief resume including contact details for 2 referees (referees should have an understanding of your relevant work history)
• Attach a 1-page written statement about how your achievements and capabilities meet the requirements of the role.

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.

The Department of Education is a family inclusive workplace. Click here to find out more about our Inclusion and Diversity strategies.

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.

• CO646408_25T Role Description (PDF, 239KB)
  Role Description
  
  Applicant Information Package (PDF, 245KB)
  Information Package for Applicants