Director of Public Prosecutions, Office of the
Reference number
Occupation
Solicitor
Work type
Contract / Temporary
Location
Sydney City, Sydney - Greater West, Sydney - West, Lismore & Far North Coast, Riverina & Murray, Dubbo & West NSW, Wollongong & The South Coast, Gosford, Central Coast and Region, Newcastle, Hunter & Region
Salary Information
Closing date
08 March 2026 at 11:59pm
Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions
Prosecution Officer (Lawyer) Level 2
Ongoing and Temporary Opportunities
$166,421. Package includes salary ($125, ,831 p.a.), employer's contribution to superannuation and annual leave loading.
Advance Your Career in Criminal Prosecution
Are you an experienced solicitor with a passion for criminal law? Join the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) and take the next step in your legal career, working on complex and significant criminal matters across New South Wales.
About Us
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) is the independent prosecuting authority for NSW, responsible for prosecuting serious offences on behalf of the people of NSW. Our vision is to be a dynamic prosecution service recognised for excellence and leadership. We are committed to diversity, inclusion, and providing ongoing support and professional development opportunities for all staff.
About the Role
As a Level 2 Solicitor, you will manage a large and varied criminal law practice and play a key role in the delivery of justice. Your responsibilities will include:
* Reviewing and assessing complex briefs of evidence and recommending appropriate charges
* Preparing high‑level written legal advice on evidentiary and prosecutorial issues
* Attending case conferences and negotiating early pleas of guilty where appropriate
* Conducting advocacy in the Local, Children's and District Courts, including hearings and contested matters
* Instructing Crown Prosecutors and Counsel in trials and sentencing matters in the District and Supreme Courts
* Providing legal advice to and on behalf of the Director of Public Prosecutions
* Managing files and court deadlines in accordance with strict legislative and procedural requirements
This recruitment will create a talent pool for ongoing and temporary vacancies over the next 18 months across metropolitan and regional ODPP offices, including Campbelltown, Dubbo, Gosford, Lismore, Newcastle, Parramatta, Penrith, Sydney, Wagga Wagga and Wollongong.
About You
We are looking for candidates who demonstrate:
* Admission as an Australian legal practitioner to the Supreme Court of NSW
* A current NSW Practising Certificate prior to commencement
* Proven litigation and advocacy experience, preferably in criminal law
* Strong analytical skills and sound judgment in assessing evidence and legal risk
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills
* The ability to manage a high‑volume and complex caseload within strict timeframes
* A current driver's licence if applying for regional roles
We welcome applicants from diverse legal backgrounds, including those transitioning from non‑criminal law practices. Comprehensive training, mentoring and ongoing professional development will be provided, particularly for suitable candidates in certain regional offices.
Recruitment Process
* Online assessment: Shortlisted applicants will complete a one‑hour online assessment during a 24‑hour window (dates to be advised)
* Virtual interviews: Capability‑based assessments may require attendance on more than one day
How to Apply
Please read the Role Description and address the key accountabilities and focus capabilities when preparing your resume (maximum 3 pages) and cover letter (maximum 2 pages) addressing the following targeted questions:
Q1: Outline your experience managing a busy litigation practice that included criminal matters, or your experience in providing high‑level legal advice within strict standards.
Q2: Describe your experience in advocacy, preparing written legal work and conducting plea or other negotiations, and how you demonstrate excellent communication skills in these aspects of your work.
Apply via, reference number 1482.
Please note that when completing the online application form, you will be asked to:
* Indicate your office location preferences
* Provide the contact details of two relevant referees (who can speak from a supervisory perspective, including a current manager)
* Consent to a Criminal History Record Check
Further Information
Learn more about the ODPP here:
* Learn more about the ODPP here: About us | ODPP )
* Code of Conduct
* To learn more about First Nations People and the ODPP: First Nations People and the ODPP | ODPP ). The ODPP is committed to improving the experiences of First Nations people in the criminal justice system.
* Benefits of working with the ODPP: Benefits We Offer | ODPP )
For general enquiries or if you require reasonable adjustments to support you during the recruitment process, please contact Darcy Ward, Recruitment Business Partner on or
If you experience technical difficulties when submitting your application, please email and a response will be provided during business hours.
The ODPP values diversity and supports all staff to reach their full potential. The Office welcomes applications from First Nations people, culturally and linguistically diverse people, people identifying with diverse genders and sexualities, people with disability and other diversity groups.