• Full Time, 35 hours per week
• Temporary contract (3 years)
• Primary Work Location: Paterson
• Technical Assistant Grade 1/3 – Salary from $61,521 per annum plus super and leave loading

Diversity, equity and inclusion are central to the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. We are committed to fostering a workplace where everyone can 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 apply. We strive to ensure that every stage of the recruitment process and overall employee experience is accessible, welcoming and free from barriers.  Learn more about the benefits of joining our diverse and talented DPIRD team.

About the Role
The Technical Assistant provides technical support for dairy farm operations at the NSW DPIRD, Tocal dairy, Paterson. This farm is part of Tocal College and a large part of core business is to provide education and training opportunities for Tocal College students who will become industry capable employees for the NSW agricultural sector. The role will require an ability and desire to train and mentor younger students each week on the dairy farm. The role will require focus on field work, machinery operation, irrigation, tractor operation using GPS, general farm work and work in the dairy. The role requires accurate data recording, equipment operation and maintenance, and contributing to WHS and Quality assurance compliance. The role also requires and ability to focus on the care and welfare of the dairy herd including the mixing and feeding of rations and Artificially Inseminating cattle as part of the dairy farm’s strategic breeding program.

About You
As our ideal candidate, you will have:

• Qualifications in accordance with Part 2 (xv) of the Crown Employees (Department of Industry) Technical Staff Award
• Experience in field work, machinery operation, irrigation, tractor operation using GPS, general farm work and work in the dairy milking dairy cattle
• Demonstrated capability in artificial insemination of dairy cattle and use of artificial insemination equipment
• A commitment to work with, train and mentor young people in agriculture
• Understanding and adherence to safety and quality protocols in a dairy and student training environment
• Valid NSW Driver Licence and ability and willingness to travel at times in the work utility vehicle to collects parts and supplies.

Applying is easy!
Submit your current Resume/CV and a Cover Letter (max. 2 pages) outlining your relevant skills and experience, and why you’re our ideal candidate.

If you’d like to know more about the role, please click here to view the role description.

For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Matthew Brett on 0410 650 346 or email matthew.brett@dpird.nsw.gov.au.

Applications close: Tuesday, 17 June 2025 at 11:55pm AEST

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.

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

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

DPIRD is committed to providing an inclusive candidate experience and through the Disability Confident Recruiter program, identify and remove unintended barriers for candidates.