Principal Investigator

The opportunity

This is an important chance to join the Enforcement team at ReturnToWorkSA, where you will help safeguard the fairness and integrity of the Return to Work scheme. In this role, your work will support compliance, discourage misconduct, and strengthen public confidence in the system while contributing to outcomes that matter for South Australians. You will be part of a collaborative, values-led organisation that prioritises accountability, excellence, and ongoing improvement.

The role

As Principal Investigator, you will take ownership of complex investigations involving suspected breaches and offences under the Return to Work Act. The position requires you to use advanced investigation methods and strong knowledge of the legislation to build cases, review evidence, and manage prosecution-related processes. You will work closely with both internal and external partners, including claims agents, external investigation providers, legal teams, and law enforcement. In addition, you will provide specialist investigative input to the Return to Work scheme, help shape enforcement strategy, support process improvements, and contribute to best-practice investigation methods.

This role can be performed either part-time at 0.8 FTE or full-time at 1.0 FTE.

About you

The successful candidate will bring substantial criminal investigation experience gained in a regulatory or law enforcement setting, along with Certificate IV in Government Investigations or an equivalent level of training. You should have a strong record of handling complex investigations in medium to large organisations, and experience within a State or Commonwealth regulatory authority will be looked upon favourably. Knowledge of workers’ compensation systems and employment law will be beneficial.

You will also need strong written and verbal communication skills, solid analytical thinking, and the ability to solve problems effectively. The role suits someone who can influence stakeholders, manage competing priorities, and stay composed under pressure while consistently producing accurate, evidence-based outcomes.

About ReturnToWorkSA

ReturnToWorkSA exists to support South Australians affected by workplace injury. Its services, together with those delivered by claims agents, focus on early intervention so workers and employers can respond quickly after an injury and help the worker recover and return to work as soon as possible. The organisation also manages premium collection from registered employers and invests funds to maintain financial sustainability, enabling quality support for injured workers. As the scheme regulator, ReturnToWorkSA is responsible for protecting fairness and integrity by monitoring compliance and providing education and support about the health benefits of work.

Why join us

You will join a workplace that values contribution and offers development and support to help you reach your potential. ReturnToWorkSA is committed to an inclusive and diverse environment where employees can make a genuine difference in the lives of South Australians impacted by work injury.

Benefits include:

• An extensive wellbeing program
• Access to wellbeing seminars, webinars, and information sessions
• A free onsite gym and bike storage
• Discounted corporate private health insurance
• A proactive EAP provider
• Flexible work arrangements, including part-time options and working from home
• Learning and development opportunities to build personal, professional, and career capability
• Modern offices with excellent amenities in the Adelaide CBD

Special requirements and conditions

• Extensive experience in criminal investigations is required
• Extensive investigative experience within a regulatory body at State or Commonwealth level, or within law enforcement, is required
• Certificate IV in Government Investigations or equivalent law enforcement training is essential
• A current driver’s licence is required
• Appointment is subject to relevant pre-employment checks

Further information

Applicants will also be assessed on how well they align with ReturnToWorkSA’s organisational values, which are central to its success: caring about people and sustainability, being inclusive and innovative, listening to understand, and owning actions. A copy of the position description can be requested by emailing recruitment@rtwsa.com.

The total remuneration package starts from $120,369 per year, excluding superannuation. The final package will reflect the selected candidate’s qualifications, skills, and experience.

How to apply

Submit a cover letter outlining your key capabilities and experience, together with your current resume, addressed to Chris Spiteri, Leader Enforcement, by 5:00pm Friday 10 July 2026. If you would like to discuss the role, Chris can be contacted on 08 8233 2136. Shortlisting and interviews will begin immediately, so early applications are encouraged.

Inclusion and acceptance

ReturnToWorkSA is an equal opportunity employer that values difference, embraces diversity, and supports flexible ways of working. Applicants are encouraged to discuss any workplace adjustments they may need, as well as flexible working arrangements for this role.

Still not sure?

ReturnToWorkSA is recognised as an Endorsed Employer for All Women by WORK180. The organisation notes that many women and underrepresented groups may hesitate to apply even after preparing an application, and encourages candidates not to hold back if they do not meet every requirement, as diverse teams are seen as stronger teams.