- Temporary Full Time, up to 6 months
- 35 hours per week
- Location: Wollongbar, NSW
- Technical Officer Grade 1/3 – Salary from $75,728 up 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
We're looking for someone to join the Entomology team at Wollongbar to provide technical support to the entomology program within the Northern Horticulture Unit, with a particular focus on laboratory and field research operations, collecting, preparing and processing of data and samples, and analysis and reporting of results.
You will work closely with the research horticulturist in entomology to ensure effectively delivery of research and development activities.
What you’ll do
As the Technical Officer Entomology, you will:
- Provide technical input into laboratory and field sample and data collection under the direction of the Research Horticulturist Entomology and Project Leader(s)
- Collect, collate and maintain data from project trials in the laboratory and field whilst complying with best practice
- Manage the collection, collation, storage and archiving of research data and samples and preparation of the data (or samples) for analyses by researchers, collaborators or laboratory services
- Maintain records in relation to workplace safety and chemical safety
- Operate, manage and maintain research facilities and equipment (e.g., insect colonies, field trial sites, microscope(s) and equipment), and the purchase of associated consumables
- Assist with the development of research publications and industry communication materials
- Comply with work standards according to the level of appointment in the Technical Officer Merit Progression Guidelines.
The key challenges of the role
- Maintaining confidentiality of sensitive data and information pertaining to a variety of stakeholders
- Maintaining insect colonies all year round.
- Collecting and managing large research data sets in a format suitable for analysis and interpretation.
About You
You’re a diligent, organised and analytical individual with strong technical capability and loves working in a high performing team. You have experience with handling insect samples, knowledge of entomology, and laboratory and field assessment processes.
Essential requirements
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Click here to view the full Role Description - TO 1-3 - Technical Officer (Entomology)
For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Saleh Adnan on 0449 801 437 or email Saleh.adnan@dpi.nsw.gov.au
👉 How to Apply
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.
📅 Applications Close: Thursday 29 January 2026 at 11:55pm AEDT
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.
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 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.
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:
- Agriculture and Biosecurity
- 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.
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
Role Description
