• Ongoing full time role
• Location - Cowra NSW
• Salary starting from $99,938p.a + super & leave
• Drive real impact in the region by fostering innovation and compliance in agricultural production

About the Role

Our Senior Biosecurity Officer primary role is to manage pest animal management and biosecurity programs that safeguard the NSW economy, environment, and community from pest animal threats.

You’ll ensure compliance with regional, state, and national standards while also helping customers prepare for and respond to biosecurity emergencies.

Main responsibilities:

• Lead, manage and coordinate the day-to-day delivery of biosecurity programs and advisory services as they relate to pest animal management
• Manage, support and provide guidance and direction to a team of Biosecurity Officers and Pest Animal Contractors 
• Plan, coordinate and lead operational projects for pest animal management programs
• Deliver compliance programs to ensure legislated biosecurity obligations for pest animal management are met 
• Deliver and coordinate training to landholders on best practice pest animal management controls and support them to implement control programs
• Be available and support other staff to prepare and respond to emergencies within the Agriculture and Animal Services Functional Area 
• Work collaboratively with other LLS teams from the agriculture, natural resource management, animal biosecurity and welfare, and business services functions to deliver integrated customer service focused advice, projects and services. 
• Engage with landholders, community groups, government agencies and other stakeholders to raise awareness of biosecurity issues 

Key challenges:

• Collaborating with stakeholders to apply legislation and policies across diverse activities
• Balancing complex and fast-moving responsibilities where urgent issues often take priority.
• Addressing new biosecurity threats amidst evolving industry and community expectations

About You

This is a role for someone who loves being in the field and working with people. To be successful you’ll need to have: 

• A comprehensive knowledge of invasive pest management and compliance, as it relates to the relevant legislation
• Expertise on biosecurity matters, particularly as it relates to pest animal management  
• Ability to assist and guide your team in making decisions in challenging scenarios; and in managing industry and community expectations whilst operating in a fast paced, technical environment
• A Certificate IV in Government Investigations, or the ability and willingness to successfully complete it 
• Appropriate qualifications (minimum AQF3 level) and knowledge relevant to pesticide application 
• The capacity to hold a NSW firearms licence or equivalent, as well as obtain the Statement of Attainment - Use firearms to humanely destroy animals (AQF AHCVPT203A or AHCPMG304) and be willing to humanely euthanise animals when required. 
• The ability to be appointed as an Authorised Officer under the Biosecurity Act and the demonstrated ability to understand, interpret and apply legislation and regulations, preferably related to biosecurity matters. 
• A current NSW Class C Driver License and the ability and willingness to travel (including overnight stays) as required 

If you are passionate about helping local communities to manage pest animals, biosecurity risks and emergency situations, then we want to hear from you. 

How to Apply

To apply, please submit a copy of your resume (approx. 4 pages) and a cover letter (max. 2 pages) that tells us about your relevant skills and experience and how these make you an ideal candidate for this role. 
 
Applications through email will not be accepted.

Applications Close:  Tuesday 28th October 2025 at 11.55pm

For more information, please download the  role description or contact Helen Schaefer, Manager Biosecurity & Emergency Services via email at helen.schaefer@lls.nsw.gov.au, or mobile 0429 476 136.

What is the process?  

The process starts with you submitting your application. Once your application has been received, you will receive an email confirmation and further correspondence when the role advertisement closes. 

You might be asked to attend an interview (either via video, over the phone or face to face), or complete a written or other assessment task.

Recruitment Adjustments

If you require adjustments in completing your application, interviewing, completing any pre- employment testing, require information in an alternative format, or otherwise participating in the recruitment process, please let us know so we can assist. Send an email to talent.advisory@dpird.nsw.gov.au or contact the hiring manager listed above for a confidential discussion.

About Us: Together, we are DPIRD

The New South Wales Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) protects, supports and develops primary industries and regional economies.

Collectively we support strong and sustainable agriculture, forestry, fishing and mining industries, and regional economies. We actively manage our natural assets: our lands and soils, minerals, waterways and oceans, vegetation and forests.

 The department brings together:

• Local Land Services
• NSW Resources
• Agriculture and Biosecurity
• Fisheries and Forestry
• Regional Development and Delivery.

With nearly 5,000 employees, and 75 per cent of the DPIRD team living and working in regional NSW, we are embedded in the regions we serve.

Diversity and inclusion are core DPIRD values. Everyone has the right to contribute and participate to their full potential. We are committed to supporting a diverse and inclusive culture that is respectful, welcoming and flexible – a workplace where our people feel supported, valued, and part of our collective success.

Learn more about the benefits of joining our diverse and talented DPIRD team.

Additional Information

A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary roles of the same role or role type that may become available for filling over the next eighteen months. 

The successful applicant in this role may be required to undergo a police check, health assessment and/or other assessments as required.