Do you want your work to make a difference for NSW?
Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage.
- Shape government decisions by applying economic insight to natural capital and real-world policy challenges
- Permanent full-time (35 hours per week) opportunity
- Parramatta office location, with flexibility for other NSW locations upon negotiation, hybrid working supported
- Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $124,322 pa to $138,494 + super
Join a team at the forefront of shaping how environmental value is understood and embedded into government decision-making. Our Natural Capital Accounting team is seeking a Senior Economist to lead impactful research and analytical projects and to help design and implement forward-thinking policy initiatives that strengthen the economic and social foundations of public policy, particularly in the evolving field of natural capital management.
In this role, you will work at the intersection of economics and environmental science, collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams to deepen the agency’s understanding of natural capital. You will play a key role in elevating how economic insights inform policy, ensuring that emerging issues and best-practice approaches are identified, discussed and integrated into advice provided to senior leadership, the Minister and across government.
You will build and maintain strong professional networks with internal and external stakeholders, positioning yourself as a trusted expert in environmental and conservation economics. Your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly will be critical as you prepare high-quality technical reports, briefing notes, and submissions. Drawing on both established and innovative methodologies, your work will equip decision-makers with robust, evidence-based insights and practical tools.
This is a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful, system-level change. You will navigate the challenge of bringing together diverse perspectives and data sources, while applying economic principles and advanced analytical techniques to environmental management. Your work will directly influence how natural capital is valued and managed, supporting better outcomes for both the environment and the community.
About You
You are an experienced economist with a strong interest in applying your expertise to complex policy challenges, particularly in areas that require balancing economic, social and environmental outcomes. You bring well-developed analytical skills and are confident working with both established and innovative methodologies to deliver clear, evidence-based insights that inform decision-making.
You thrive in a collaborative, purpose-driven environment and are skilled at building effective working relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders. Your communication skills enable you to translate complex economic concepts into practical advice for both technical and non-technical audiences.
You are comfortable working with a degree of autonomy, managing your own workload in line with agreed priorities while remaining accountable for delivering high-quality outcomes. You exercise sound judgement within your delegated authority and know when to escalate complex or sensitive issues. Organised and proactive, you take ownership of your work while engaging closely with your manager on priorities and matters requiring higher-level input or resolution.
Desirable requirements
- A knowledge of and/or experience with coding languages for statistical computing, data analysis, and high-quality visualisation such as R or Python
- Familiarity with natural capital accounting
Essential Requirements
- A degree in Economics, Mathematics, Statistics, or Accountancy or equivalent relevant experience.
For more information read the full Role Description: Senior Economist
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.
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.
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.
Applications close 22 April 2026 11:55PM.
Should you require further information about the role please contact Prabha Prayaga - Principal Economist via Prabha.Prayaga@dcceew.nsw.gov.au.
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 dcceew.ta@dpie.nsw.gov.au or contacting Alexandra Blair on 02 8275 1761 (please mention reference number 548461).
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 AEX@dcceew.nsw.gov.au for a yarn.
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