Senior Legal Officer

Department of Industry; Newcastle; On-site; ZAR 400 000 - 500 000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a motivated lawyer to join their dynamic team. This role offers the opportunity to work on complex legal matters within a supportive environment that values work/life balance and diversity. As a Principal Legal Officer, you will provide expert legal advice and engage with various stakeholders, shaping policies that impact the community. With a focus on in-house legal excellence, this position promises a rewarding career path for those eager to make a difference. Join a team committed to fostering a culture of collaboration and inclusion, where your contributions will be valued and recognized.

Benefits

Flexible Work Arrangements

Job Sharing

Workplace Adjustments

Support Programs

Long-term Career Support

Diversity Initiatives

Qualifications

• Admitted or eligible for admission as a Solicitor or Barrister in NSW.
• Strong analytical skills and stakeholder engagement abilities.

Responsibilities

• Deliver solution-focused legal services within tight timeframes.
• Advise high levels of government to manage risk and support initiatives.

Skills

Local Government Law

Privacy Law

Employment Law

Administrative Law

Statutory Interpretation

Analytical Skills

Stakeholder Engagement

Communication Skills

Education

Solicitor or Barrister Admission

NSW Practising Certificate

Job description

Together we shape thriving communities, public spaces, places, and economies.

• Bring your expertise in Local Government and Privacy law and elevate your legal career managing a broad range of complex, rewarding work.
• Office locations include Parramatta, Newcastle, Orange, and other established NSW locations may be considered.
• Salary ranges from $141,175 to $164,405 super, relative to experience.

What's in it for me?

Join our team for a fantastic culture with dynamic collaboration and genuine long-term career support. We offer flexibility in work arrangements, diverse and fulfilling assignments, and prioritize work/life balance and wellbeing with initiatives like flex leave and support programs. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcome, respected, and empowered to succeed.

The role

In this role, you'll be at the forefront of generalist in-house law at one of the largest Departments in the State. You'll handle complex and sensitive matters, delivering solution-focused legal services within tight timeframes. Your expertise will be crucial in advising high levels of government to manage risk and support departmental initiatives.

You'll be part of a new team focused on in-house legal excellence. This is an exciting opportunity for a lawyer eager to use their experience in public and/or private law to deliver high-quality legal advice and client-focused services.

Skills in areas such as employment law, privacy law, administrative law, and statutory interpretation are desirable. We welcome applicants with broad backgrounds in public, private, or in-house law. If you're seeking a change from private practice, this might be the role for you! Our Department makes positive changes for the people of NSW, and your strategic input will contribute directly. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated lawyer to progress their career while making a difference for the people of NSW.

For more information, read the full Role Description: Principal Legal Officer.

What you will bring to the role

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively convey legal concepts.
• Outstanding stakeholder engagement skills to foster strong relationships and ensure alignment with diverse stakeholders.
• Strong analytical skills and intellectual rigor to navigate complex challenges and provide expert advisory services.
• Proficiency in working independently, bringing a proactive approach, initiative, and decision-making skills.

Essential requirement

• Admitted or eligible for admission as a Solicitor or Barrister in the Supreme Court of NSW, holding or eligible to hold a NSW Practising Certificate.

About us

The Department of Planning, Housing, and Infrastructure (DPHI) aims to improve the liveability and prosperity of NSW. We create vibrant spaces, manage land assets, and deliver affordable housing. We strive to be a high-performing, inclusive, and diverse public service organization that values individual contributions and fosters a sense of belonging.

We support flexible working, job sharing, and workplace adjustments.

If interested, please submit your application with a resume and cover letter explaining your suitability for the role.

Applications close 11:55 PM on Monday, 12 May 2025.

For further information, contact Alice Beasley. A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary opportunities over the next 18 months.

Applicants must be Australian or New Zealand citizens, permanent residents, or hold a valid Australian work visa for the duration of the appointment.

We encourage applications from people with disabilities. Please contact us for accommodations or adjustments during the recruitment process.

Check out our Aboriginal applicants guide or contact our Aboriginal Career pathways team for support.

Required Experience: Senior IC

Key Skills

Ab initio, Freelance Writing, Bus Driving, Bank Reconciliation, Export Sales, Clinical

Employment Type: Full-Time

Experience: years

Vacancy: 1

Monthly Salary: $141,175 - $164,405