• Ongoing, full-time role
• Location – All of NSW (Flexible & Negotiable)
• Professional Officer Grade 1/4 salary from 75,728 to $145,442 + super + leave loading

About the role

As a Dairy Industry Specialist, you will lead and support industry development initiatives that respond to current and future needs of the dairy industry. Working closely with producers, industry bodies, researchers and education providers, you will help deliver projects that address key risks, improve farm performance and enhance NSW’s economic position.

Key responsibilities, but not limited to:

• Identify opportunities and challenges in the NSW dairy industry, developing practical projects to support sustainable growth
• Work with research, development, extension, and education partners to deliver innovative solutions for priority industry issues
• Provide timely advice and information to government and industry on emerging dairy trends and development opportunities
• Support the adoption of new technologies and farming systems that are both profitable and sustainable
• Represent DPIRD at industry events, meetings, and forums, promoting programs and contributing to project planning
• Lead projects from planning to delivery, managing resources, timelines, reporting, and ensuring outcomes meet quality and budget standards
• Build and maintain strong relationships with industry stakeholders and partners to achieve program objectives

About you

To be successful, you will bring:

• Strong knowledge of the NSW dairy industry, including farming systems, key profit drivers, and factors affecting productivity and sustainability
• Experience developing, delivering, and evaluating collaborative projects with measurable outcomes
• Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship-building skills
• A current NSW Driver Licence and willingness to travel as required

Essential requirements

• Degree qualifications in Animal Science, Agricultural Science, Agricultural Economics or a related discipline

This is your chance to make a real impact on the NSW dairy industry. You’ll work on projects that support farmers, strengthen industry performance, and shape sustainable practices across the state — all while collaborating with passionate professionals who share your commitment to regional industries.

Applying for the role

Apply online by submitting a current resume and brief cover letter (max 2 pages) that outlines your skills and experience relevant to the role.

For more information view the full role description,  Dairy Industry Specialist - DPIRD Ag.docx

Additionally, if you would like to hear more about this role, please contact Ken Garner, Manager Dairy via ken.garner@dpird.nsw.gov.au or on 0437 423 078.

Application Closing Date: Thursday 12 February 2026, at 11:55pm

What to Expect Next  

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 assessment)  
• Reference checks will be completed for final candidates   

Additional Information

• 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.   

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.  

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.  

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion  

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.