Do you enjoy working in a fast-paced environment with flexible work arrangements whilst being part of a department dedicated to conservation outcomes? Join us as a Principal Conservation Officer and get ready to use your regulatory experience to make a direct impact on sustainable development and koala conservation in South East Queensland (SEQ). Provide leadership to a dedicated team, advise on policy, and ensure compliance within statutory frameworks under the Planning Act 2016.
The Principal Conservation Officer will work with state and local government agencies, the development industry, conservation organisations and the community where it involves interfering with mapped Koala Habitat Areas in SEQ. Provide technical advice to the Planning Department and undertake compliance investigations.

If you are keen to take on the challenges of this role – read on and apply now.

Job details

The Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation is seeking an experienced and passionate person to be a team leader in a small multi-disciplinary team to conduct assessments and compliance activities and provide advice in relation to its responsibilities under the Planning Act 2016 for development involving interfering with Koala Habitat in SEQ. The successful applicant will provide leadership and liaise with state and local governments, the development industry, conservation organisations and the community and provide advice on matters impacting on the conservation of koalas. Skills in project management, regulatory assessment and compliance and the ability to develop and maintain effective collaborative relationships will be highly valued.

As the Principal Conservation Officer, PO4 you will:
• Coordinate and supervise the day-to-day operations of a multi-disciplinary team in conducting assessments and compliance activities and providing advice in relation to developments involving clearing in Koala Habitat in SEQ.
• Provide advice, guidance and direction to the team, managing escalated and/or more technically complex matters, for the identification and endorsement of approaches and/or options for approval by the relevant delegate.
• Contribute input to the development and maintenance of contemporary policies,practices and information guidelines pertaining to the conservation of koalas.
• Liaise, consult and negotiate with a range of stakeholders including local, state and federal governments, industry, and community groups, to contribute to the resolution of matters.
• Review the preparation of, and/or prepare timely and well-researched briefings, reports, submissions, publications, and other correspondence on relevant issues.
• Monitor and review approved practices, systems and processes, to enable the team to meet its objectives and communicate changes to ensure the team are aware of their obligations.
• Manage work relationships to encourage cooperation and build capability through sharing of individual experiences, learnings and identifying development opportunities.
• Foster a workplace culture that supports and promotes the interests of First Nations people and actively engage to contribute to better outcomes for First Nations people.

We're looking for the best suited applicant for the role and will assess your eligibility and ability to undertake the requirements of the role based on your:
• Demonstrated ability to coordinate and supervise a team in a regulatory service delivery environment and manage multiple projects and business processes.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills which promote and sustain positive relationships with team members.
• High level knowledge and experience in applying the principles and practices of environmental management and relevant legislation.
• Advanced analytical and problem-solving capability with demonstrated ability to take the lead in complex investigations and resolve complex matters within the department's regulatory responsibility.
• Demonstrated stakeholder management skills with the ability to conduct negotiations and articulate issues to achieve outcomes in complex circumstances.
• Contribution to workplace equity and diversity that enriches our culture of innovation, respect and inclusion.

You must hold a university degree from a recognised tertiary institution in one of the following disciplines: environmental management, environmental or biological sciences, conservation or natural resource management, urban design, town planning or a related discipline.

Applications to remain current for 12 months. 

Job Ad Reference: QLD/677935/26
Closing Date: Wedesday, 18 February 2026

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.

• 677935 26 - Position Description (Word, 614KB)