AO7 Principal Program Officer

Public Sector People are working with a Queensland State Government department to recruit an AO7 Principal Program Officer on a contract until May 2026. This is a pivotal role that sits within the Early Childhood Programs and Funding Branch, offering you the chance to significantly influence the delivery and strategy of crucial early childhood services across Queensland. If you thrive in a strategic, high-impact environment and possess expertise in program management, contract administration, and policy, we want to hear from you!

Location: Brisbane CBD
Start Date: ASAP
Contract Length: Until May 2026 with possible extension
Rate: $87.00 to $93.00 per hour plus super

About the role:

Reporting to a dedicated Manager/Director, the Principal Program Officer is responsible for the end-to-end management and strategic oversight of early childhood programs and funding initiatives.

Key Accountabilities:

• Program and Contract Management:
  
  • Lead the delivery of early childhood programs, including robust contract and performance management of funded services.
  • Oversee the efficient and effective administration of funding via the online grants management system, maintaining a strong customer service focus.
  • Manage a suite of programs, contracts, and funding rounds to ensure alignment with Government strategic aims and objectives.
• Strategic Advice and Policy Development:
  
  • Provide high-level, strategic analysis and advice on complex operational policy, program, and legislative issues relative to human services and early childhood education.
  • Contribute to the development of strategic initiatives and advise on policy, operational planning, and practice.
• Stakeholder Engagement and Coordination:
  
  • Liaise, consult, and negotiate at a senior level with government and non-government organisations regarding human service provision and policy that impacts relevant legislation.
  • Provide leadership and coordination of responses to achieve identified departmental outcomes.
• Team Leadership & Project Management:
  
  • Lead and manage a multi-disciplinary team in program, contract, and funding management.
  • Design and manage projects (including training program development) to ensure timely and effective delivery of outcomes.

• Proven experience in high-level program and contract management, ideally within the government or human services sector.
• Exceptional ability to provide strategic advice and policy analysis on complex operational and legislative matters.
• Demonstrated experience in managing funding administration and a strong understanding of grant management systems.
• Outstanding stakeholder management, consultation, and negotiation skills at a senior level.
• Track record of leading and motivating a team to achieve critical program delivery outcomes.
• A strong commitment to the objectives of the early childhood sector in Queensland.