The Principal Project Officer (AO7) plays a pivotal role in driving the successful delivery of high-profile reform initiatives which contribute meaningful change to the lives of children and young people in care. This role requires:

• A strategic, systems-thinker and problem solver with an eye for detail
• Excellent time management within a fast-paced environment and ability to manage competing priorities
• A proactive attitude to addressing challenges and seeking guidance, advice and solutions
• Strong communication skills (written and verbal) across a range of modalities and adaptable to a range of audiences
• Adaptability, resilience, humility and a commitment to continuous improvement
• Strongly desired: knowledge of Queensland’s Child Safety system

Job details

The Principal Project Officer role includes:

Project leadership and delivery

• Lead the planning, coordination, and delivery of complex and iterative projects that contribute to broader reform initiatives
• Develop and implement project plans, timelines, and deliverables, ensuring alignment with organisational goals and priorities.
• Monitor and manage risks, issues, and dependencies, escalating as required to ensure project success.

Systems thinking, policy and program design and applied research and analysis

• Take a systems approach to driving reform by continually building and sharing knowledge and insights across a range of stakeholders, “connecting-the-dots” on aligned reform effort, identifying opportunities and engaging in iterative policy and program design processes towards short, medium and longer-term objectives
• Conduct research and analysis of quantitative and qualitative data, policies, and other forms of information and evidence to inform advice to leadership and identify next steps in reform efforts.

Communication and reporting

• Prepare and deliver clear, concise, and high-quality reports, briefings, and presentations, tailored to a range of internal and external audiences, including senior executives.
• Communicate proactively, professionally and effectively with team members, stakeholders, and leadership to maintain relationships, broaden understanding of relevant topics and issues and ensure continual feedback of information into projects

Stakeholder engagement and collaboration

• Proactively build and maintain strong working relationships with a broad range of internal and external stakeholders to support project success.
• Facilitate and participate in stakeholder engagement activities, including co-design workshops, working groups, consultation processes, and pursuit of new partnership opportunities aligned to project objectives
• Represent the organisation in meetings, forums, and working groups, ensuring alignment with reform objectives.

Governance

• Take a leading role in the governance of reform initiatives within the business unit, which may include Secretariat functions as required
• Ensure compliance with governance frameworks, policies, and procedures across all project activities.
• Lead risk management and governance activities, including maintaining accurate and up-to-date project documentation (e.g., risk registers, progress reports, and meeting records).

Team leadership and mentorship

• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior staff or project team members, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.
• Actively contribute to building a positive and inclusive team culture that supports professional development and knowledge sharing.

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.

• 690904 26 - Role Description (Word, 609KB)