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Principal Investigator
Natural Resource Management and Compliance; Natural Resource Operations; Lands; Preferred locations are Nambour, Mackay or Toowoomba.
Based in Nambour, Mackay or Toowoomba (with other business centres considered), this AO7 Principal Investigator role leads complex compliance and law enforcement investigations under Queensland’s natural resource legislation. You’ll guide a team of Senior Investigators, prepare briefs of evidence, represent the department in legal proceedings, and provide high-level advice on compliance matters. This role is ideal for an experienced investigator with strong leadership skills who thrives in a fastpaced, high-stakes environment.
Discover a purpose driven career with the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development, and unleash your potential to grow. LANDS #DeliveringforQueensland!
Job details
| Position status | Fixed Term Temporary |
|---|---|
| Position type | Flexible full-time |
| Occupational group | Auditing & Compliance |
| Classification | AO7 |
| Workplace Location | Toowoomba region,Mackay region,Sunshine Coast |
| Job ad reference | QLD/657398/25 |
| Closing date | 12-Sep-2025 |
| Job duration | until 27/10/2028 |
| Contact person | Warren Raddatz |
| Contact details | Phone: 042 760 1081 Access the National Relay Service |
As a Principal Investigator, you'll lead a team of Senior Investigators to deliver complex law enforcement investigations under Queensland's natural resource legislation. You'll gather and interpret evidence, prepare briefs for court, represent the department in proceedings, and provide expert advice to ensure compliance matters are managed to a high standard. Alongside your investigative work, you'll prepare reports and advice for senior leaders, mentor your team, and help design and deliver training for Authorised Officers. You'll build capability, foster collaboration, and support a culture of high performance across the unit.
You'll also work with stakeholders across government, industry and the community to promote awareness of legislative obligations and resolve compliance matters. By applying risk-based approaches, you'll balance enforcement with education and engagement to deliver fair and consistent outcomes.
This role suits an experienced investigator with strong leadership skills, capable of handling sensitive, high-stakes situations while inspiring and guiding a team to achieve results.
To apply, please provide:
• A current resume detailing your relevant experience
• A cover letter addressing showcasing your skills, knowledge, attributes and experience related to:
o Leading complex investigations and applying relevant legislation in a compliance environment.
o Providing leadership, mentoring and guidance to investigative teams.
o Preparing briefs of evidence, delivering high-level advice, and representing the department in proceedings.
o Building strong relationships and engaging effectively with diverse stakeholders.
Why work for us?
The Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development (NRMMRRD) plays a critical role in supporting Queenslanders across the state—from Cairns to Mount Isa to Warwick—by delivering strong regional outcomes, fostering local economies, and strengthening government community partnerships. As stewards of over 60% of Queensland's land and key supporters of industries such as mining and manufacturing, our reach and impact are vast.
We are committed to putting our people first—empowering staff, celebrating success, and encouraging innovation. Our workplace is mobile, flexible, inclusive and respectful, and we are focused on growing united, capable leaders. For more information, visit:
https://www.nrmmrrd.qld.gov.au/about-us/careers/who-we-are
We offer:
• Competitive superannuation and salary sacrificing options
• Flexible working options supporting work-life balance
• Generous leave provisions across the Queensland public sector
• Professional career development and training opportunities
• Relocation assistance and provisions
• The chance to help #DeliveringforQueensland! and be part of Queensland's longterm prosperity
To learn more about the benefits of working with the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development, visit:https://www.nrmmrrd.qld.gov.au/about-us/careers
Applications will remain current for 12 months.
Further information
We are committed to building inclusive cultures in the Queensland public sector that respect and promote human rights and diversity.
Please ensure you download all attachments and follow the instructions on how to apply.
Documents
Before applying for this vacancy please ensure you read the documents below.
