Job Description
Department of Customer Service
Reference number
req49134
Occupation
Information and Communications Technology, Research, Reporting
Work type
Full-Time
Location
Sydney - Greater West
Salary Information
$113,574 - $125,720 + Superannuation
Closing date
14 April 2026 at 10:00am
Research Officer – Strategic Intelligence
Intelligence Unit | Data, Intelligence & Analytics
Building Commission NSW
Clerk Grade 7/8 | $113,574 - $125,720+ super + leave loading
Ongoing | Parramatta (Hybrid working arrangements)
Lead industry-wide research that shapes regulatory strategy
Building Commission NSW is seeking a high-calibre Research Officer to join the Strategic Intelligence Team.
This role is designed for an experienced researcher with strong methodological capability – ideally at PhD level or equivalent – who can conduct rigorous, industry-wide research and translate findings into practical regulatory insight.
You will produce structured, evidence-based assessments that inform executive decision making, risk targeting and long-term regulatory strategy across the NSW residential construction sector.
This is not a general policy role. It is a strategic intelligence function within a frontline regulator.
About the Strategic Intelligence Team
The Strategic Intelligence Team conducts deep industry research, systemic risk assessments and horizon scanning. Our work focuses on:
Identifying emerging and systemic risks across the construction sector
Producing strategic intelligence assessments for executive decision making
Translating complex data, intelligence and external research into actionable regulatory insight
Supporting proactive, intelligence-led regulatory interventions
We work closely with operational intelligence, compliance, policy and data analytics teams.
The role
As Research Officer (Strategic Intelligence), you will:
Design and conduct industry-wide research projects on complex regulatory and market issues
Apply rigorous research methodologies (qualitative, quantitative or mixed methods)
Synthesise data, intelligence holdings, open-source information and academic literature
Produce structured strategic assessments, research reports and executive briefings
Apply analytical frameworks to identify patterns, systemic drivers, capability gaps and long-term risks
Present findings clearly to senior executives and stakeholders
Contribute to horizon scanning and long-range regulatory planning
You will be expected to bring intellectual discipline, methodological rigour and clarity of thinking to complex, ambiguous problems.
About you
We are seeking candidates who demonstrate:
Advanced research capability, ideally supported by a PhD or equivalent research-intensive experience
Experience producing industry-wide or sector-level research reports
Strong methodological expertise, including research design and critical evaluation of evidence
Exceptional written communication skills, particularly in producing structured, decision-ready reports
Ability to translate complex findings into practical regulatory implications
Strong critical thinking and ability to assess competing hypotheses and information quality
Confidence presenting research findings to senior stakeholders
Experience in regulatory, law enforcement, intelligence, public policy or risk environments is highly regarded.
Experience applying structured analytical techniques or producing strategic assessments will be viewed favourably.
Why join Building Commission NSW?
Contribute to lifting standards in residential construction across NSW
Apply academic-level research in a real-world regulatory setting
Work within a mature, data-driven intelligence capability
Influence regulatory priorities at a strategic level
Hybrid working arrangements and supportive team culture
This role offers a rare opportunity to apply rigorous research skills to high-impact public interest outcomes.
Essential requirements
Relevant tertiary qualification in social sciences, criminology, economics, law, public policy or related discipline (PhD highly regarded)
Ability to obtain and maintain a Baseline National Security Clearance
National Police Check
Willingness to undergo probity screening
How to apply
Submit:
Resume (maximum 5 pages)
Cover letter (maximum 2 pages) outlining:
Your research methodology experience
Examples of industry-wide or systemic research you have led
Your experience producing structured, executive-level written products
For further information about the role please contact Christopher Hodges – Manager Intelligence at [email protected]
A talent pool may be created for similar future roles.
Salary Grade 7/8, with the base salary for this role starting at $113574 base plus superannuation
For enquiries relating to recruitment please contact Afrah Ahmed Saied via [email protected].
Visit the Capability Application Tool to prepare for the recruitment process by accessing practice application and interview questions based on the focus capabilities listed in the role description.
Closing Date: Tuesday 14th of April at 9:59am.
Careers at Department of Customer Service
A career at the Department of Customer Service (DCS) gives you the opportunity to help improve government services and be part of reform that benefits people across NSW. We are focused on delivering excellent customer service, digital transformation, and regulatory reform. Come join us and influence the future of our great state.
Belong in our diverse and inclusive workplace
The strength of our workforce lies in its diversity and embracing difference, while the key to our success is leveraging the contributions of employees with different backgrounds and perspectives.
You can view our full diversity and inclusion statement here.
We want you to bring your best self to this application process. If you have any support or access needs that may require adjustments to allow you to fully participate in this selection process (including an alternate format of the application form) please contact [email protected] or 02 9494 8351.
For more information, please visit
Information on some of the different types of disabilities
Information on adjustments available for the recruitment process
💡 Quick Summary
Seeking a career-building opportunity? The Research Officer position is now open for candidates interested in the Construction, Repair & Maintenance Services sector. This role in Sydney offers a professional environment and growth potential.
Requirement Snapshot: Candidates should possess basic communication skills, a proactive attitude, and the ability to work in a team. Experience in Construction, Repair & Maintenance Services is a plus.
