Principal Manager Opal Mining

Be part of the department that works to protect, support and develop NSW primary industries, mining sector and regional communities.

• Permanent ongoing opportunity
• Full-time role at 35 hours per week 
• Location: Orange or Dubbo preferred; however other DPIRD office locations may also be considered – regional location encouraged/hybrid working supported 
• Salary ranges from $209,268.00 to $242,196.00 + super & leave loading 

About the Role                                                                          

As Principal Manager Opal Mining within the Resources Regulator, you will lead the day-to-day management of compliance programs that safeguard safety, rehabilitation and responsible mining practices across the opal sector. You will drive the Regulator’s role in responding to the NSW Government response to the independent review into opal mining.

On a daily basis you will deliver compliance and enforcement activities including inspections, investigations and targeted compliance operations and complaint investigations, ensuring activities are delivered with integrity, consistency and in line with legislative requirements. Through strong leadership and clear direction, you will drive high standards of regulatory practice that protect workers, communities and the environment.

Working as part of the Resources Regulator, you will manage and mentor a specialised team responsible for administering compliance under key mining and work health and safety legislation. You will champion best practice rehabilitation standards, strengthen capability through training and development, and ensure that government objectives are met with professionalism and transparency. This is a pivotal leadership role with statewide impact, shaping the future of safe and sustainable opal mining in NSW.

About You

We are seeking an experienced regulatory leader who brings strong operational judgement, integrity and a commitment to customer service. You are confident managing complex compliance programs, leading investigations and guiding teams in high profile and sensitive environments. You balance enforcement with engagement, build credibility with industry and stakeholders, and foster a culture of professionalism, accountability and continuous improvement.

As our ideal candidate, you will bring:

• demonstrated experience leading compliance and investigation programs within a regulatory or mining environment
• strong knowledge of mining and work health and safety legislation, and the ability to apply this knowledge in operational decision making
• proven leadership capability, including mentoring, performance management and building team competence
• excellent stakeholder engagement and negotiation skills, with the ability to manage complex and sometimes contentious matters
• high level written and verbal communication skills, with experience preparing briefs, reports and providing strategic advice to senior leaders

Essential Requirements

• Relevant tertiary qualification and leadership experience in a regulatory environment
• Current Class C NSW Driver’s Licence
• Willingness and ability to travel throughout NSW
• Compliance with the Resources Regulator Pecuniary Interests in the Regulated Sector policy is mandatory.
• Appointment and ongoing assignment are subject to satisfactory participation in ongoing health screening.
• Compliance with pre-employment probity screening is mandatory and a condition of engagement.

Should you require further information about the role please contact the hiring manager, Jamie Tripodi – Executive Director NSW Resources Regulator via jamie.tripodi@dpird.nsw.gov.au or on 0428 560 942. You can also contact Mariam Barakat – Business Partner Talent Advisory via mariam.barakat@dpird.nsw.gov.au or on 0438 495 513.

You can also view the role description.

Why Join Us?

At DPIRD, we’re committed to protecting and growing NSW’s primary industries while supporting regional communities. When you join us, you’ll:

• Work on meaningful projects that shape the future of agriculture and biosecurity.
• Enjoy flexible work arrangements and the option to work from regional locations.
• Access professional development opportunities to grow your career.
• Be part of a collaborative, inclusive team that values diversity and innovation.

To Apply

Applying is easy! Please apply via our online portal and submit:

• A CV (max 5 pages)
• A cover letter (max 2 pages) Tell us how your experience and skills make you a great fit for this role.

Applications close Thursday, 9^th April at 11:55pm AEST.

What to Expect Next  

After applying:

• You’ll receive a confirmation email
• We’ll review all applications once the ad closes
• If shortlisted, you may be invited to interview (in person or Microsoft Teams video)
• Further assessments will follow (e.g. writing task, skills test, psychometric test)
• Reference checks will be completed for final candidates 
• The preferred candidate for this role may be required to undergo reference checks, a national police check, bankruptcy check, health assessment and/or other assessments as required.
• A talent pool may be created for ongoing and temporary roles of the same type that may arise within the next 18 months. 

About us – together, we are DPIRD  

The New South Wales Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) protects, supports and develops primary industries and regional economies.  

Collectively we support strong and sustainable agriculture, forestry, fishing and mining industries, and regional economies. We actively manage our natural assets: our lands and soils, minerals, waterways and oceans, vegetation and forests.  

The department brings together:  

• Local Land Services  
• NSW Resources  
• Agriculture and Biosecurity  
• Fisheries and Forestry  
• Regional Development and Delivery.  

We have skilled and dedicated teams working in 200 locations across regional NSW. With nearly 5,000 employees, and 75 per cent of the DPIRD team living and working in regional NSW, we are embedded in the regions we serve. Learn more about the benefits of joining our diverse and talented DPIRD team.  

At DPIRD, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds – including, but not limited to, gender, age, ethnicity, cultural heritage, disability, religion and sexual orientation.  

DPIRD is a proud Disability Confident Recruiter, Family Inclusive Employer and Carer Friendly Employer

We are committed to ensuring every stage of the recruitment process is accessible and free from barriers. If you require adjustments or information in an alternative format to participate, please contact talent.advisory@dpird.nsw.gov.au or the hiring manager listed for a confidential discussion.  

We also understand that work is just one part of life. Our Family Inclusive Employer and Carers + Employers Accreditations reflect our commitment to supporting employees to balance work and family responsibilities.