Principal Legal Officer

About the role

The Department of Education is seeking a Principal Legal Officer to lead the legal team supporting its whole‑of‑government cleaning services program. Based in Parramatta CBD, this senior lawyer will provide high‑quality, client‑focused advice to ensure value‑for‑money outcomes across employment, WHS, contractual and procurement matters.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and develop a multidisciplinary legal team delivering advice on employment, workplace health & safety, contracts and procurement.
• Provide strategic legal guidance to achieve the directorate’s goals and support department stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation and policy across all cleaning services contracts.
• Collaborate with business units to identify risk, negotiate terms and resolve disputes.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of legal processes and service delivery.

Required profile

• Highly experienced solicitor with a strong background in employment, WHS, contract and procurement law.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate a team, fostering capability and professional growth.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with a client‑focused mindset.
• Proven track record of delivering results efficiently while maintaining high quality.
• Commitment to public education and the Department’s strategic plan.

Required skills

• Employment law expertise
• Workplace health & safety (WHS) law knowledge
• Contractual and commercial law experience
• Procurement legal advisory skills

What we offer

• Full‑time, 35‑hour week with flexible working arrangements.
• Generous leave entitlements and leave loading.
• Salary range $165,865 – $169,359 plus superannuation.
• Opportunities for advancement and professional development.
• Work in a supportive public‑sector environment dedicated to high‑quality education.