Principal Heritage Officer
Attorney-General's Department
Job reference:
Location: 5000 - ADELAIDE
Job status: Long Term Contract
Eligibility: Open to Everyone
Classification: PO3
Salary Range: $101,285 - $107,078 + Superannuation
Duration: Up to 2 years
Vacancy Type: Full Time
Number of Positions Available: 1
Closing Date: 11:30pm, Thursday 4 December 2025
About the Opportunity
The primary purpose of the Principal Heritage Officer is to lead the Heritage Conservation Team and to promote and provide expert, responsive and fit for purpose advice about Aboriginal heritage in line with the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1988 (SA) and Division objectives. The role works across a range of advisory, regulatory and promotional activities and provides guidance and leadership about the management of Aboriginal heritage across the state. It facilitates and manages Aboriginal community and other stakeholder relationships, and includes the utilisation of specialist skills and knowledge to conduct field assessments and manage projects.
Responsibilities & Qualifications
* Degree qualification in archaeology or anthropology (essential).
* Specialised knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal heritage, culture and lore, and an awareness of the significance of heritage and culture to Aboriginal identity.
* Experience in undertaking investigations using an understanding of the principles of natural justice and procedural fairness.
* Demonstrated knowledge of, and experience in practically applying, Aboriginal heritage legislation administered by both the state and Commonwealth governments.
* Experience in working with Traditional Owners, Aboriginal communities and organisations on projects relating to the identification, assessment, recording and conservation of Aboriginal heritage sites, objects and remains.
* Ability to undertake best‑practice recording of Aboriginal heritage, including the use of GPS and the preparation of management plans.
* Ability to supervise, mentor, guide and manage a team responsible for the administration of legislation.
* Leadership ability and capacity to work collaboratively to develop and manage relationships across diverse interest groups and implement appropriate solutions.
* Proven ability to communicate and work effectively across government and with Aboriginal people, organisations and communities, including ability to bring together and motivate people from diverse areas and to develop and implement positive solutions collaboratively.
* Highly developed experience in the provision of succinct reports, briefings, Cabinet submissions and presentations to senior executives in government and/or the private sector and large groups of stakeholders at public meetings.
About the Business
Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation works with Aboriginal people, communities and organisations with a focus on empowering Aboriginal people to have a stronger voice in government decision‑making and the management of Aboriginal heritage.
Special Conditions for Employment
* Employment is dependent upon a National Police Certificate clearance that the AGD finds satisfactory.
* Employment‑related screening check required.
* Some out of hours work may be required.
* Some interstate and intrastate travel may be required.
* Must hold a current Australian issued driver's licence (equivalent to minimum class C).
Additional Notes
* You will be prompted to attach your Curriculum Vitae (CV) and Cover Letter (2 pages) after you have answered the questions via the link below.
* For more information download the Job Application Pack and Job and Person Specifications.
* For further information about this exciting opportunity that is not covered by this website please contact Alex van Wessem, Manager Aboriginal Heritage on or **************@sa.gov.au.
Contact & Application
Click Apply and follow the prompts to submit your application.
The Attorney-General's Department values workplace diversity and is committed to providing a supportive, inclusive and respectful work environment.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People and people with disability are strongly encouraged to apply.
The South Australian public sector supports flexible ways of working including part‑time working arrangements wherever reasonably possible. The sector is diverse and desires to increase in diversity and to create opportunities for more South Australians.
We are committed to making reasonable adjustments to provide a positive, barrier‑free recruitment process and supportive workplace. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application via the contact above or our website
Applications close: 04/12/ :30 PM
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