• Temporary Full Time 35 hours per week (2 year contract)
• Work Location: Menangle - Elizabeth Macarthur Agriculture Institute,
• Be part of a team providing laboratory testing and research for animal health and virus diseases
• Technical Officer Grade 1-3 – Salary from $75,728 to $116,969 per annum (FTE) plus super and leave loading

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. 

About the Role

Join the Veterinary Virology Diagnostic and Research Laboratory at the Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute, part of the NSW Department of Primary Industries’ Biosecurity & Food Safety Division. In this role, you will:

• Coordinate research activities involving animal care and sample collection.
• Oversee and assist with the care of terrestrial animals and fish used in research programs.
• Manage animal housing facilities, including feed and equipment planning, biosecurity controls, and sanitation.
• Collect, prepare, and test specimens for evidence of viral infection.
• Perform a wide range of laboratory duties, including virology testing and data management.
• Maintain accurate records to support research integrity and compliance.

This is a hands-on role combining animal care, laboratory diagnostics, and research coordination in a high-containment biosecurity environment.

About You

You are an organised and detail-oriented professional with a passion for animal care, virology, and biosecurity. You thrive in a collaborative environment and have the ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining high standards of accuracy and compliance.

Essential Requirements

• A degree in biological science (or equivalent) in line with the Crown Employees (NSW Department of Industry) Technical Staff Award.
• Knowledge and experience in virology techniques, including:

• Aseptic techniques
• Serological tests (ELISA, virus neutralisation, AGID, haemagglutination)
• Virus isolation and antigen detection
• Real-time PCR and molecular biology methods

• Experience in housing and routine care for multiple animal species, with strong skills in monitoring health and welfare.
• Technical competence in animal handling and restraint.
• Current NSW Driver Licence and willingness to travel.

You’ll stand out if you also have:

• Knowledge of animal welfare legislation, quarantine, and biosecurity requirements.
• Familiarity with the Australian Code for the Care and Use of Animals for Scientific Purposes.
• Experience with quality management systems and regulatory compliance in diagnostic and research laboratories.
• Skills in implementing and improving standard operating procedures.
• Experience with recirculating aquaculture systems and aquatic animal disease models.

What will help you thrive in this role:

• Superior organisational skills to prioritise work and manage data effectively.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• A strong commitment to teamwork and collaboration, with the ability to liaise effectively with veterinarians, other researchers and technical staff.
• Problem-solving skills and adaptability to change.
• A keen eye for detail, particularly in observing animal behaviour and health.

What to Know More?

For further information about the role please contact hiring manager, Dr Peter Kirkland, Senior Principal Research Scientist and Manager, Virology Laboratory, by email (peter.kirkland@dpird.nsw.gov.au). You can also view the Role Description - TO 1-3 - Technical Officer Virology Laboratory

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

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.