Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions
Prosecution Officer (Lawyer) Level 4
Temporary, for a period of up to 12 months
$202,166. Package includes salary ($170,841- $178,369 p.a.), employer's contribution to superannuation and annual leave loading.
Bring Your Criminal Law Expertise to a Fast-Paced Environment
About us
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) is the independent prosecuting authority responsible for the prosecution of all serious indictable offences committed against the laws of New South Wales. We are an agency of over 1100 staff, working throughout NSW to service the main court centres. Our 10 offices have a mix of Crown Prosecutors, Solicitor Advocates, Solicitors and support staff.
Our vision is to be a dynamic prosecution service recognised for our excellence and leadership. We act with integrity, by behaving ethically and professionally.
We are committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace by providing ongoing support and opportunities for all staff.
The Role
As a Senior Legal Adviser, you will provide high-level legal advice to the Director and Deputy Directors on a broad range of matters relating to the conduct of criminal proceedings. Drawing on your expertise, you will review and assess legal advice, reports and recommendations prepared by solicitors and Crown Prosecutors, alongside complex evidentiary material and relevant legislation, policy, practice and procedure, to support informed decision-making.
To succeed in this role, you will bring extensive knowledge of criminal law, practice and procedure, and the legal and policy frameworks governing criminal prosecutions, including the Early Appropriate Guilty Pleas (EAGP) reforms and Crown Appeals. You will have the ability to analyse complex legal issues, exercise sound judgment, and provide clear, concise and practical advice in a fast-paced environment.
You will bring the ability to analyse complex legal issues, provide clear and practical legal advice, build effective professional relationships, and engage constructively with stakeholders across a range of settings.
About You
- A degree or diploma in law and admission as a legal practitioner of the Supreme Court of New South Wales.
- Experience in the provision of high-quality legal advice.
- Comprehensive knowledge of criminal law, practice and procedure, policies and principles applicable to the conduct of criminal proceedings.
- Demonstrated experience in the ability to meet deadlines, an ability to handle urgent matters and re-prioritise tasks when required.
- Ability to communicate clearly and effectively.
Flexible/Remote Work Opportunity
Whilst the role is presently located at the Sydney Head Office, we will accept applications from candidates living outside of the metropolitan area. You will need to be based at one of ODPP’s ten offices (subject to accommodation and operational considerations) and be able to travel regularly to Head Office, including for an onboarding period. (Travel and accommodation assistance will be provided for approved work-related travel.)
Why Us
As the prosecuting authority of NSW, the ODPP offers unique career opportunities.
- A premium location: Work from our brand-new office at Parkline Place, right above Gadigal Metro station on Pitt Street—placing you in the vibrant heart of Sydney.
- Flexible work arrangements: Enjoy a 35-hour work week, access to flex leave, and hybrid working options with a minimum of three days in the office.
- Meaningful work: Be part of a team that delivers challenging, purpose-driven work that makes a real difference to the community.
- Exceptional working conditions: Benefit from a strong focus on wellbeing, including 24/7 Employee Assistance Program (EAP), wellbeing check-ins, special fitness passport rates, and tailored workplace adjustments.
- Growth and development: Access ongoing training and development opportunities to support your career progression.
- Inclusive culture: Join one or more of our five affinity groups—First Nations, Disability and Neurodiversity, People of Diverse Genders and Sexualities, Women, and Cultural and Linguistic Diversity—offering connection, advocacy, and a platform to share experiences.
Interviews
The interview process will include capability-based assessments which may require your time and presence on more than one day.
How to Apply
Please review the Role Description and address the key accountabilities and focus capabilities when preparing your resume [maximum three pages] and cover letter [maximum two pages]. Shortlisting will be based on merit and the information provided in response to the targeted questions.
Your cover letter must clearly and directly respond to the two targeted questions listed below. Each response must be included within the body of the cover letter and clearly identify which targeted question is being addressed (for example, by using headings or explicitly referencing “Targeted Question 1” and “Targeted Question 2”). These responses will form the basis of the assessment of your suitability for the role.
- Outline your experience in resolving complex legal and factual issues in a criminal law environment demanding concise, accurate and high-quality advice within a limited time frame.
- Describe situations where you demonstrated high level communication skills and liaised with internal and external parties to formulate sound recommendations.
The Office values authentic, original responses that demonstrate individual insight and personal contribution. Applicants are encouraged to prepare their applications independently to ensure they genuinely represent their capabilities and background. Acting with Integrity is a Signature Behaviour of the ODPP, requiring ethical and professional conduct and adherence to public service values. Skills, knowledge, and capability will be assessed and verified throughout the capability assessment process.
Please apply via jobs.odpp.nsw.gov.au, reference number 1549.
When completing the online application form, you will be asked to provide the contact details of two relevant referees (who can speak from a Supervisory perspective), and consent to a Criminal History Record Check.
Closing date: Wednesday 29 July, 11:59pm
Please note that a talent pool will be created to fill temporary vacancies which may arise over the next 18 months.
Further Information:
Learn more about the ODPP here: About us | ODPP (nsw.gov.au) | Code of Conduct
To learn more about First Nations People and the ODPP: First Nations People and the ODPP | ODPP (nsw.gov.au).
Benefits of working with the ODPP: Benefits We Offer | ODPP (nsw.gov.au)
For general enquiries, technical difficulties, or if you require any reasonable adjustments to be made to support you during the recruitment process, please contact Bianca Burgess, Recruitment Business Partner on (0 8268 2693 or [email protected] and a response will be sent 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. If you have individual requirements that need to be accommodated in order to participate in the selection process, please indicate this in your application.
