- Two executive leadership opportunities within the Office of the Chief Scientist & Engineer.
- Bring your expertise in policy, programs, partnerships or stakeholder engagement to shape science and innovation outcomes across NSW.
- Ongoing PSSE Band 1 opportunities based in Martin Place, Sydney.

About the Role

We have two unique opportunities within the Office of the Chief Scientist &

- Engineer for a Director, Programs &
- Outreach and a Director, Strategy &
- Programs. These roles are responsible for leading strategic policy, government relations and high-profile initiatives that position science, research and innovation at the heart of decision-making in NSW. You will provide trusted advice to the Chief Scientist &
- Engineer, Ministers and senior leaders, drive cross-sector collaboration, oversee executive and ministerial engagement, and champion initiatives that strengthen NSW's research and innovation ecosystem.

For more information on the positions please see the Director, Programs & Outreach and Director, Strategy & Programs role descriptions.

We're Looking For

- Science & Innovation Ecosystem Development: An understanding of how government, universities, research organisations and industry work together to drive research translation, commercialisation and innovation outcomes.
- STEM Outreach & Sector Impact: Experience promoting science, technology and innovation through stakeholder engagement, outreach initiatives or capability-building programs, helping strengthen NSW's reputation as a leader in research and innovation.
- Partnerships & External Engagement: Proven ability to establish and maintain productive partnerships across government, academia, industry and the research community, creating opportunities for collaboration and investment.




- Evidence-Based Leadership: Demonstrated ability to translate complex scientific, technical or research-based information into strategic advice, programs and initiatives that influence government policy, inform decision-making and deliver meaningful outcomes for NSW.

We value diverse experiences. Even if you're not sure you meet all requirements, we encourage you to apply.

Why Join Us?

- Flexible Working: Broad range of flexible working arrangements
- Career Development: Ongoing learning through expert-led sessions, online training, and career development opportunities
- Work-Life Balance: Flex time accrual for extra hours worked (for non-executive roles) based on a 35-hour standard week
- Wellbeing Support: Access to employee assistance program, fitness passport program, and wellbeing initiatives
- Inclusive Culture: Staff-led networks including Aboriginal Staff Advisory Committee, Diversity & Inclusion Network, and Young Professionals Network

How to Apply

Click ‘Apply Online’ and submit your application including:

- A resume detailing relevant knowledge, skills and experience (maximum 5 pages)
- Please provide a response to the two (2) pre-screening questions within the application portal

Closing date: Thursday, 29 October 2026 (11:59PM)

Salary: Senior Executive Band 1. Total remuneration package will be negotiated upon offer.

Hiring Manager: Darren Saunders,



Executive Director, Office of the NSW Chief Scientist & Engineer

Recruitment Contact: Serena Buckley, Senior Talent Acquisition Partner via [email protected]

About the Premier's Department

Connecting to Deliver from the Heart of Government The Premier's Department leads the state's 430,000 public servants, driving collaboration and the delivery of whole-of-government priorities. Learn more about the department and a career at Premier’s Department.

Our Commitment

We welcome and encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the LGBTQIA+ community, people with disability, people with caring responsibilities, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, veterans and other diverse communities.

The Premier's Department acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work and live. We pay respect to Ancestors and Elders past and present. We recognise and learn from the strengths of First Nations peoples of New South Wales and their continuing connection to, and unique cultural and spiritual relationship with, Country.

Reasonable Adjustments: The selection process will include assessment techniques to determine your suitability. You can request reasonable adjustments at any stage by indicating in pre-screening questions, contacting the Talent Team at [email protected], or reaching out to the hiring manager.

Talent Pool: A talent pool may be created from this recruitment process. If eligible, you may be contacted for ongoing and temporary opportunities in the same role or grade that become available over an 18-month period.

📌 Directors, Office of the Chief Scientist (Sydney)
🏢 Premier's Department NSW
📍 Sydney