Principal Advisor Water Assets and Infrastructure

Help shape resilient communities by ensuring the water infrastructure that supports them thrives today and into the future.

• Shape the communities of tomorrow through strategic water infrastructure advice.
• Lead complex, state-significant projects and influence planning outcomes across NSW.
• Permanent full-time (35 hours per week) opportunity
• Parramatta, Newcastle or Wollongong office preferred, though other NSW DPHI Office location will be considered 
• Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $154,231 to $178,369 + super

In this role, you will help create healthier, more sustainable communities by ensuring the water infrastructure that supports them is planned with care, expertise and a long-term perspective. Working on significant development and infrastructure projects across NSW, you will provide trusted advice that balances community needs, environmental considerations and future growth. You will collaborate with local councils, government agencies and industry partners to influence decisions that support resilient places where people can live, work and thrive, while leading a team committed to delivering positive outcomes for communities across the state

Read the role description for more detail: Principal Advisor Water Assets and Infrastructure

About you:

• You are a strategic and technically credible water infrastructure professional with experience delivering advice on complex development, infrastructure or planning projects.
• You bring expertise in water assets and infrastructure, with a strong understanding of how effective planning and investment support resilient, sustainable communities.
• You can translate complex technical information into practical, clear advice that informs decision-making and delivers positive outcomes for communities and stakeholders.
• You build strong relationships and collaborate effectively with government agencies, local councils, industry partners and community stakeholders to achieve shared goals.
• You are an influential leader who can guide and develop high-performing teams while fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability and continuous improvement.
• You are motivated by public value and enjoy working on significant projects that will shape how communities across NSW grow, connect and thrive into the future.

Essential

• Degree qualification in a related relevant discipline or equivalent relevant experience e.g., Bachelor of Engineering (Civil/Water).

About us

At the Development Coordination Authority (DCA), we're helping shape the future of communities across NSW. By bringing together specialist expertise and working closely with councils, government agencies and industry partners, we support planning decisions that balance growth, sustainability and community needs. Our work helps ensure that as communities grow, they are supported by the infrastructure and services needed to thrive now and for generations to come.

At the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI), you could shape your world while helping us shape the future of NSW. Together, we create vibrant communities, places and precincts, and manage land, assets and property.

Join our team and shape your world in a workplace that empowers you to do your best work and build a meaningful career. In this role, you’ll help shape lives and communities across NSW while growing your own career, supported by flexible work options, impactful projects and a collaborative, diverse team. As a high-performing and inclusive organisation that reflects the communities we serve, we value your lived experience and cultural knowledge, and we are committed to helping you thrive through flexible arrangements, workplace adjustments and a culture where everyone feels supported, connected and belongs.

Apply now

Apply today with your CV and cover letter. Applications close 11.55pm, Monday 7 September 2026. For more information contact Chris Salkovic, Director Water Advisory, chris.salkovic@dphi.nsw.gov.au

A talent 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.

Check out our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for the role or contact our Aboriginal Career Pathways team for a yarn.

We encourage and support applications from people with disability. Please reach out to us to discuss any accommodations or adjustments that may be needed during the recruitment process, ensuring that you have every opportunity to showcase your talent, skills, and potential. Contact the Talent Team via talent.acquisition@dpie.nsw.gov.au or (02) 63637676​ - HR Support, option 2, DPHI People Advisory, option 1 and reference 'Request an Adjustment - Job Title and Reference Number'.

Please note to be eligible to apply for this position you must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or permanent resident or hold a valid Australian working Visa for the duration of the appointment. This role is subject to standard pre-employment checks, including a criminal record check.