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Principal Land Officer
Land Services A; Land & Surveying Services; Lands; Townsville or Mackay
The Principal Land Officer provides leadership and specialist expertise in complex land and natural resource management matters, ensuring sound, timely and defensible outcomes that support legislative and strategic objectives. The role involves exercising delegated authority, managing risk within legislative frameworks, preparing high level advice and working closely with government, industry and community stakeholders to achieve sustainable land management outcomes.
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. Join NRMMRRD #deliveringforqueensland!
Job details
| Position status | Permanent |
|---|---|
| Position type | Flexible full-time |
| Occupational group | Management |
| Classification | AO7 |
| Workplace Location | Townsville region,Mackay region |
| Job ad reference | QLD/688439/26 |
| Closing date | 26-May-2026 |
| Job duration | |
| Contact person | Deborah Eaton |
| Contact details | Ph: (07) 4447 9171 Access the National Relay Service |
As a Principal Land Officer, you will provide leadership and expert land administration services that directly contribute to the responsible and sustainable use of Queensland's natural resources. Based in North Queensland and operating within Land and Surveying Services, you will lead a dispersed team supporting complex state land dealings and major development projects.
In this role, you manage and coordinate assessment and compliance functions, oversee staff performance and development, and ensure timely, high quality service delivery. You exercise delegated authority, provide expert advice on land and natural resource legislation, lead complex negotiations, and prepare briefs, correspondence and submissions for senior officers. You will work closely with regional colleagues, other government agencies, local authorities, community groups and major clients to resolve sensitive and complex land matters.
Success in this role looks like a capable, supported team delivering consistent and defensible decisions, strong stakeholder relationships, effective risk management and outcomes that balance development, community expectations and legislative obligations.
To apply for this role, you will need to submit the following documents:
• A current resume (2-3 pages recommended), detailing relevant experience and the contact details for two referees who can comment on your capabilities and performance.
• A brief cover letter (1-2 pages) outlining how your skills, experience and approach make you well suited to the role and how you will contribute to the department.
Send your application via Smart Jobs and Careers.
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 here.
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 #deliverforqld and be part of Queensland's long-term prosperity.
To learn more about the benefits of working with the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development, visit here.
Applications to 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.
