• Fixed-term full-time opportunity of up to 12 months
• Location: Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute, Menangle
• Competitive salary from $73,522 - $113,562 p.a. + superannuation (Technical Officer Grade 1-3)

Diversity, equity and inclusion are central to the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. We are committed to fostering a workplace where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, reflecting the rich diversity of the communities we serve. We actively encourage individuals of all backgrounds – including but not limited to; gender, age, ethnicity, race, cultural heritage, disability, religion and sexual orientation to submit an application. We strive to ensure that every stage of the recruitment process and overall employee experience is accessible, welcoming and free from barriers. 

About Us

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:

• Agriculture and Biosecurity
• NSW Resources
• Local Land Services
• 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.

About the Role

We’re seeking a Technical Officer to join the Sheep Ectoparasite Insecticide Resistance laboratory working with the Australian Sheep Blowfly, Lucilia cuprina. A minor part of the laboratory work will also include bacteriology in cases of sheep lameness.

What Your Day Will Look Like
Your duties will include, but are not limited to:

• Work in an environment with decomposing organic matter and strong odours, essential for culturing maggots, blowflies, and bacteria.
• Prepare insecticide solutions, conduct bioassays, and record detailed results.
• Culture insects and maintain laboratory and insectary hygiene.
• Perform molecular techniques including PCR and gel electrophoresis.
• Maintain accurate records and carry out data analysis.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety and quality assurance protocols.

Essential Requirements

• A degree in biological/agricultural science, TAFE Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques (or equivalent) in accordance with the Crown Employees (NSW Department of Industry) Technical Staff Award

Desirable Skills

• Experience in entomology and PCR techniques
• Chemical handling certification
• Current Drivers Licence

To Thrive In This Role, You’ll Need:

• Experience culturing and handling insects, ideally in a laboratory setting.
• Comfortable working in confronting environments with strong odours and decomposing material.
• Strong manual dexterity and ability to work on close-range visual tasks.
• High reliability and flexibility to work outside regular hours when required.
• Self-starter with the ability to work independently and within a team.
• Strong organisational and time-management skills with attention to detail.
• Confident using computer systems for record-keeping, data analysis, and reporting.
• Understanding of laboratory quality assurance standards.
• Willingness to learn and adapt to changing work requirements.

🔗 Click here to view the full role description

💬 For further information about this vacancy please contact:

Narelle Sales – Professional Officer (Research)

📞 02 46 40 6446    ✉️ narelle.sales@dpi.nsw.gov.au

👉 How to Apply

If you are ready to create a more prosperous NSW and want to be part of a collaborative team with great culture, we’d love to hear from you! 

To apply, please submit your application via our online portal, attaching an up-to-date resume (max 5 pages) and a cover letter (max. 2 pages) outlining how your skills and experience match what we are looking for.   We will get back in touch with you after the closing date.

Applications close at 11:55pm on Tuesday 17 June 2025.

What to expect next

Once you submit your application, you’ll receive an email confirmation. After the advertisement closes, all applications will be reviewed by the hiring manager and selection panel. If shortlisted, you may be invited to an interview—this could be in person, over the phone, or via video. You may also be asked to complete role-related tasks, such as a written assessment, skills test, or psychometric assessment. Reference checks will be conducted for candidates progressing to the final stages. 

The successful applicant may also be required to undergo a police check, health assessment, and other relevant checks as part of the recruitment process. 

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. 

Additional Information

The salary offered to the successful candidate will be commensurate with qualifications, skills and experience, as outlined in the Crown Employees (Department of Industry) Technical Staff Award and the Technical Staff Merit Progression Guidelines.

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