Work within the Virology Diagnostic and Research Laboratory at Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute as an animal attendant and to assist with the collection, receiving, preparing and testing for viruses.

• x2 Temporary Full Time positions (2 year contracts)
• Located at Menangle within the Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute
• Technical Assistant Grade 1-3 – Salary from $63,367 - $75,728 per annum (FTE) plus super and leave loading
• Be part of a team providing laboratory testing and animal health research

About the Role

We are seeking Technical Assistants to join the Virology Diagnostic and Research Laboratory within NSW Biosecurity & Food Safety at the Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute (EMAI), Menangle. These are a full-time, two-year opportunity, with part-time/job share arrangements considered for the right candidate.

As a Technical Assistant, you will play a vital role in supporting animal health research and diagnostic testing. Your responsibilities will include:

• Sample Collection, Processing and Testing: Assist with the collection, receipt, preparation, and testing of samples from farm and aquatic animals for evidence of viral infections. Ensure all procedures comply with biosecurity and laboratory standards.
• Animal Care and Welfare: Provide hands-on care for a variety of terrestrial and aquatic species, ensuring their health, nutrition, and housing sanitation. Duties include feeding, watering, cleaning enclosures, and monitoring animal behaviour and well-being.
• Biosecurity Compliance: Maintain strict biosecurity protocols to prevent disease transmission and safeguard research integrity.
• Research Support: Work collaboratively with scientists and technical staff on animal health research projects, contributing to the advancement of biosecurity and disease prevention strategies.
• Laboratory Operations: Perform general laboratory duties, including preparation of materials, cleaning, and safe handling of biological specimens.
• Data Recording and Reporting: Accurately document animal health observations, environmental monitoring, and laboratory results in accordance with standard operating procedures.

This role offers a unique opportunity to combine animal care with laboratory science, contributing to critical research that protects NSW’s agricultural and aquaculture industries.

About You

To succeed in this role, you will bring:

• A genuine interest in biological sciences and animal health
• Experience working with and caring for animals in a research or similar environment
• A strong commitment to biosecurity and disease prevention
• Excellent attention to detail and systematic record-keeping skills
• Qualifications that meet Part A, 2 (xv) of the Crown Employees (Department of Industry) Technical Staff Award
• A current NSW Driver’s Licence

You’ll stand out if you also have:

• Hands-on experience monitoring animal health and welfare, with knowledge of animal care and ethics protocols
• Familiarity with accredited laboratory environments and following standard operating procedures
• Skills in routine procedures such as blood collection and general laboratory duties
• The ability to identify and report abnormalities in animal behaviour or health

What will help you thrive in this role:

• Strong time management skills and the ability to prioritise tasks
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• A collaborative mindset and willingness to work as part of a team
• Adaptability and a proactive approach to learning new skills
• A keen eye for detail, particularly when observing animal behaviour and health

For further information about the role please contact hiring manager Dr Paul Hick, Research Coordinator via email at paul.hick@dpird.nsw.gov.au. You can also view the Role Description - TA 1-3 - Technical Assistant - DPI BFS.pdf

Applying is easy!

Please apply via our online portal and submit:

✅ A CV (approx. 4 pages)

✅ A cover letter (approx. 1 page) Tell us how your experience and skills make you a great fit for this role.

Applications close: Tuesday 13 January 2026 at 11.55pm

What to Expect Next

Please note that DPIRD will be closed during the period 25 December 2025 to 11 January 2026 (inclusive). This recruitment process will recommence in January 2026.

After applying:

• You’ll receive a confirmation email
• We’ll review all applications once the ad closes
• If shortlisted, you may be invited to interview (in person or Microsoft Teams video)
• Further assessments will follow (e.g. writing task, skills test, psychometric test)
• Reference checks will be completed for final candidates  
• The preferred candidate for this role may be required to undergo reference checks, a national police check, bankruptcy check, health assessment and/or other assessments as required.
• A talent pool may be created for ongoing and temporary roles of the same type that may arise within the next 18 months. 

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.  

We have skilled and dedicated teams working in 200 locations across regional NSW. 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.  

At DPIRD, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds – including, but not limited to, gender, age, ethnicity, cultural heritage, disability, religion and sexual orientation.  

DPIRD is a proud Disability Confident Recruiter, Family Inclusive Employer and Carer Friendly Employer  

We are committed to ensuring every stage of the recruitment process is accessible and free from barriers. If you require adjustments or information in an alternative format to participate, please contact talent.advisory@dpird.nsw.gov.au or the hiring manager listed for a confidential discussion.  

We also understand that work is just one part of life. Our Family Inclusive Employer and Carers + Employers Accreditations reflect our commitment to supporting employees to balance work and family responsibilities.