Research Principal

NSW Government; Sydney; Hybrid; AUD 154,000 - 178,000; Full time

Job summary

NSW Government's Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water is seeking a Research Principal to lead strategic research informing energy, climate change and sustainability policy. Based in Parramatta with hybrid work, the role drives high-impact projects and partner engagement with government, academia and industry.

You will deliver rigorous research, influence priorities, and translate findings into policy-ready knowledge products addressing NSW’s energy transition and

Qualifications

• Significant experience leading applied research programs in energy, climate change, sustainability or public policy.
• Strong knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies and evaluation approaches.
• Experience managing complex research projects across multiple stakeholders and translating research into policy outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and delivery of strategic research projects that inform policy, program development and evaluation.
• Influence research priorities and identify emerging knowledge needs across ECCS.
• Deliver rigorous, cost-effective research that supports organisational objectives and government priorities.

Skills

Research leadership

Policy development

Stakeholder engagement

Data analysis

Energy & climate

Education

Tertiary qualifications in engineering/science

Tools

Statistical analysis

Qualitative research

Job description

Do you want your work to make a difference for NSW?

Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage.

Help shape the future of energy, climate change and sustainability policy in NSW through high-impact research and evidence-based insights.

• Temporary (Up to June 2030) Full-time (35 hours per week) opportunity
• Located in Parramatta with hybrid working supported
• Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $154,231 up to $178,369 pa plus super

We are seeking an experienced and strategic research professional to lead the development and delivery of research that informs policy, program design and evaluation across the Energy, Climate Change and Sustainability (ECCS) portfolio.

As the Research Principal, you will drive a portfolio of complex research projects that support the development of effective policies, programs and services across the rapidly evolving energy and climate change landscape.

You will provide thought leadership on research priorities, strengthen partnerships across government, academia and industry, and ensure the department remains at the forefront of emerging social, economic and technical research practices.

Working with senior leaders, policy teams and program areas, you will deliver high-quality research and knowledge products that address critical challenges facing NSW's energy transition and climate change response.

In this role you will:

• Lead the development and delivery of strategic research projects that inform policy, program development and evaluation.
• Influence research priorities and identify emerging knowledge needs across the Energy, Climate Change and Sustainability portfolio.
• Deliver rigorous, high-quality and cost-effective research that supports organisational objectives and government priorities.

Should you require further information about the role please contact Ben Cirulis, Director Data & Analytics, via [e-mail]

About You

You are an accomplished research leader with a passion for generating evidence that informs public policy and delivers meaningful outcomes for communities.

You bring extensive experience managing complex research projects and working across multiple stakeholders to translate research into practical policy and program outcomes.

You will demonstrate:

• Significant experience leading applied research programs in energy, climate change, sustainability, public policy, economics, social research or a related field.
• Strong knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies and evaluation approaches.
• Exceptional analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to synthesise complex information and provide strategic insights.

Essential Requirements

• Tertiary qualifications or relevant experience in engineering, mathematics, statistics or another related discipline.
• Demonstrated experience and a professional network in the social sciences and other relevant research fields.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and leading rigorous research programs.

For more information read the full Role Description: Research Principal

Who we are

The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) works to protect the state’s environment and heritage. It leads the way on climate change, driving the sustainable transition to a net zero economy, powered by affordable, reliable, and clean energy.

DCCEEW conserves and protects the state’s natural environment. It manages the NSW national park estate, including its rich and diverse biodiversity and Aboriginal cultural heritage for future generations.

DCCEEW also ensures sustainable management of water resources across the state, to support the environment, communities and industry.

We acknowledge the ongoing custodial responsibilities of the Aboriginal peoples of NSW to care for Country and water and are committed to establishing meaningful partnerships with Aboriginal peoples in the management of the environment.

Applications close Thursday 1st October 2026 (11:55PM)

A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary opportunities of the same role or role type that may become available over the next 18 months.

Our goal is to build a workforce that not only represents but also understands and serves the diverse communities of New South Wales. We are committed to making our state a vibrant and inclusive place to live, work, and thrive for everyone. Our workforce represents people of all ages and genders, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disabilities, the LGBTQI+ community, and people from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

Looking for more information or assistance in applying?

• Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace.
• How we encourage and support people with disability
• Information and adjustments for individual needs for the recruitment process and the workplace.

If you require an adjustment for your application process, please contact our Talent Acquisition Team by emailing [e-mail] or contacting Amanda Paterson, Talent Acquisition Specialist on 02 6360 9017 (please mention reference number 552961).

If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander use our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for roles or our Aboriginal Career pathways team at [e-mail] for a yarn.

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