• Temporary Full Time up to 1 November 2027 
• 35 hours per week 
• Primary Work Location: Grafton
• Salary from $75,728 to $116,969 per annum (FTE) plus super and leave loading - commensurate with qualifications, skills and experience (Technical Officer G1-3)

About the Role

The Technical Officer provides critical support to the Grafton Farm team to ensure that livestock focused research projects are delivered within relevant parameters.  The role is accountable for both operational and research based farming activities undertaken on site. The role involves the strategic management of farming activities and provides an essential link between management, research staff, local office staff, commercial partners and farm operations including:

• demonstrating best practice management techniques
• facilitating research projects and trials
• delivering commercial production outcomes
• maintaining a strong connection with local industry partners

About You

As our ideal candidate, you will bring:

• Experience in livestock production and farm operations, with the ability to support both commercial and research activities
• Practical knowledge of best-practice livestock and pasture management techniques
• Strong communication and teamwork skills to work effectively with researchers, farm staff and industry partners
• The ability to organise and prioritise tasks to support research trials and day-to-day farm operations
• A commitment to workplace health and safety, animal welfare and high-quality farm management practices

Essential Requirements:

• Qualifications in accordance with Part 2 (xviii) of the Crown Employees (Department of Industry) Technical Staff Award
• Demonstrated experience in livestock husbandry, cropping and pasture management systems
• Valid driver’s licence

For further information about the role please contact David Bennett, Site Manager on 0421 341 267 or david.bennett@dpird.nsw.gov.au

You can also view the full Role Description - TO 1-3 - Technical Officer

Why Join Us?

At DPIRD, we’re committed to protecting and growing NSW’s primary industries while supporting regional communities. When you join us, you’ll:

• Work on meaningful projects that shape the future of agriculture and biosecurity.
• Enjoy flexible work arrangements
• Access professional development opportunities to grow your career.
• Be part of a collaborative, inclusive team that values diversity and innovation.

Applying is easy!

Please apply via our online portal and submit:

✅ A CV (approx. 4 pages)

✅ A cover letter (max. 2 pages) Tell us how your experience and skills make you a great fit for this role.

Applications close: Wednesday 25 March 2026, at 11:55pm AEST

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.  

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.

Additional Information

• 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 Criteria. 

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. 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 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.