We're seeking a permanent full-time Principal Land Research Officer (AO7) to lead land research in support of the Queensland Government's response to native title compensation claims. This impactful role can be based in Brisbane or one of several regional locations, including Cairns, Rockhampton, Bundaberg, Caboolture, Charleville, Toowoomba or Warwick.

About the role:
As part of the Native Title and Indigenous Land Services (NTILS) team, you will lead a small team to undertake detailed tenure research and spatial analysis that informs the State's approach to native title compensation. Your work will involve interpreting land tenure history, mapping land use changes, validating data, and contributing to legal and negotiation strategies in partnership with State negotiators. Working alongside legal advisors and policy experts, you will provide technical advice and spatial data for use in complex negotiations or Federal Court proceedings. You will also contribute to improvements in tools and systems used to assess compensation liability and help shape the State's policy response to native title matters.

Your key responsibilities include:
• Overseeing complex spatial and tenure research that supports compensation claims
• Supervising staff and reviewing research reports and analysis for quality and accuracy
• Providing support to State negotiators through expert advice, reports and spatial outputs
• Managing data using a web-based spatial research platform
• Coordinating across teams to ensure effective project delivery
• Supporting policy and process improvement for native title research and compensation
• Building effective working relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders, legal bodies and government agencies
• Ensuring the work of the research team supports the principles of fairness, respect and cultural connection

We're looking for someone who:
• Has demonstrated capability in spatial systems, mapping and land tenure analysis
• Brings strong analytical, research and problem-solving skills
• Has experience managing or supervising small teams in complex technical environments
• Communicates clearly and respectfully, with the ability to present complex data effectively
• Understands native title, land legislation, or government land systems (highly regarded)
• This is your opportunity to lead critical work that connects Country, community, and land justice

Why join us?
We are committed to being a workplace that focusses on people. This is about building resilience, encouraging innovation, and understanding that learning is a journey that never ends.
We promote a safe, inclusive and respectful place to work where all staff feel valued.
We are a mobile, flexible and agile workforce. We live by our guiding principles - proactive, courageous, pragmatic, collaborative, resilient and respectful - underpinned by the Queensland public service values.

What we offer?
• Competitive superannuation and salary sacrificing options
• Flexible working options that encourage a healthy work-life balance
• A variety of fantastic leave provisions, supported across the broader Queensland public sector
• Rewarding professional career development and training opportunities
• Relocation assistance and provisions
• Have visible impact in your community, and directly contribute to making good jobs, better services and a great lifestyle for all Queenslanders.

This position is located in Brisbane OR Cairns, Rockhampton, Bundaberg, Caboolture, Charleville, Toowoomba and Warwick will be considered, please indicate your location preference for this role on your application.

To know more about the benefits of working with the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development click here

Applications to remain current for 12 months.

Job Ad Reference: QLD/636035/25
Closing Date: : Friday, 23 May 2025