Programs Lead Do you want to protect future generations?

Protect tomorrow together at the NSW EPA

- Join a purpose-led organisation and make a difference to the environment and our community
- Environment Officer Class 12
- Remuneration starting from $157,257 plus superannuation
- Enjoy employee benefits and flexible working options
- One 12-month temporary role available
- Role based in Parramatta / or Broken Hill

The opportunity

We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Programs Lead to join the EPA’s Programs Branch, leading the Broken Hill Environmental Lead Program (BHELP) and Together on Country Program. This senior program leadership role operates across environmental, community and whole-of-government priorities, requiring strong strategic thinking and policy expertise to navigate complex issues, shape program direction and drive delivery of complex programs and projects.

You will work closely with EPA executives, government agencies, local government, Aboriginal organisations and communities, and other partners to progress shared outcomes.

You will lead and support two multidisciplinary teams, set priorities and expectations, identify and manage risks, and take ownership of work from development through to delivery. You will also prepare and oversee high-quality strategic written advice, including executive and Ministerial briefings, correspondence, policy advice and governance materials.

About you

To be successful in this role, you will have:

- Strong strategic thinking and policy skills, with the ability to navigate complex issues, consider the broader government and organisational context and translate this into clear advice, priorities and practical action.
- Demonstrated experience leading complex programs and projects from development through to implementation and evaluation, including managing risks, governance, budgets, dependencies and competing priorities.
- A proactive approach and strong sense of ownership, with the judgement and confidence to identify what needs to be done,



progress work with appropriate autonomy and bring issues and solutions forward.
- Demonstrated experience leading and developing teams, with the ability to provide clear direction, manage competing priorities and create an accountable, supportive and high-performing team environment.

- Highly developed written and verbal communication skills, including the demonstrated experience preparing clear, concise and persuasive executive, Ministerial, policy and governance advice.

- Strong interpersonal, stakeholder engagement and influencing skills, with the ability to build trusted relationships and work collaboratively across government, community and other organisations, including on complex or sensitive matters.
- A sound understanding of government decision-making, policy and program delivery.
- Experience working with Aboriginal people and communities, and an understanding of culturally safe and respectful engagement, would be highly regarded.
- Willingness and ability to travel to Broken Hill as required.

About the team

The Programs team sits within the EPA’s Programs Branch and delivers initiatives that require strong partnerships across government, communities and other organisations. This Programs Lead will have responsibility for the Broken Hill Environmental Lead Program and Together on Country Program teams. While the programs have different areas of focus, both involve complex program delivery, strong stakeholder and community relationships, policy and strategic advice, governance, evaluation and collaboration across organisational boundaries.





The role provides an opportunity to lead experienced staff working on programs with significant environmental, community and social outcomes, while helping shape their future strategic direction.

For more information about the role, please read the Role Description – Programs Lead - EO12 - Role Description - Generic - March 2026.docx

About us

As the environmental steward and regulator of our State we are committed to a sustainable future. Our people are proud to play a role in protecting the environment of NSW. We partner with Aboriginal people, industry and the wider community to protect, restore and enhance our diverse ecosystems.

We bring scientific expertise, experience and actions to inspire creative solutions as we transition our state to a circular economy.

As we respond to urgent current issues, including climate change, we educate and support our stakeholders to create an environmentally healthy future.

Join us on our mission to protect tomorrow together.

To apply

If excited by the information above, we look forward to receiving your application, including a copy of your resume and cover letter expressing your interest and suitability for the role. For more information about working at the EPA and what to expect in our recruitment processes, please read our Candidate Information Pack.pdf

Applications close: 11:55pm Sunday 1 November 2026

Should you require further information about the role, please contact Carly Goddard at [email protected]

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion

If you require a reasonable adjustment for your application process, please contact our Talent Acquisition team at [email protected] and please mention reference REQ # 553668. If you are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, please use our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for roles, or contact our Aboriginal Employment Pathways team for a yarn.

For more information on reasonable adjustments to recruitment processes, please click here.

📌 Programs Lead (New South Wales)
🏢 DCCEEW NSW
📍 New South Wales