• Temporary Full Time until 30 June 2029 
• Primary Work Location: Wagga Wagga
• Professional Officer Grade 1-4. Salary from $75,728 to $145,442 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 Regional NSW) Professional Officers Award and the Professional Officer Progression Criteria (1-4) 

About the Role.

This role leads innovative research into the ecology, impacts, chemical and non-chemical management of invasive weeds. Working with government, industry and research partners, you’ll design and deliver high quality projects that produce practical, timely outcomes. Your work will directly support biosecurity, land management and policy responses, helping reduce the risk and impact of invasive plants across NSW.

This role offers a unique opportunity to advance your career with the Research Scientist (RS) Classification pathway while remaining in your current position. Employees can choose to apply for entry into the Research Scientist classification, enabling them to formally align their work with a recognised research career structure within the public service. This pathway is ideal for professionals seeking to deepen their research focus while contributing to evidence-based decision making across the public service. To enter the Classification, an employee must have completed 12 months of service in their current role. Undertaking scientific research must form the most significant part of their duties.

About You

As our ideal candidate, you will bring:

• Demonstrated experience in ecological, agricultural or weed focused research
• Demonstrated experience in chemical weed management and herbicide resistance
• Strong capability in research design, data analysis and applied problem solving
• Proven ability to collaborate with industry, government and research partners
• Experience communicating complex research clearly to diverse audiences
• A track record of contributing to funding submissions, reports and publications

Essential criteria:

• Bachelor's Degree in Science, Agricultural Science, Natural Resources or a related field with postgraduate experience in the same
• Demonstrable experience in developing innovative research solutions and track record of high quality research output
• Current NSW Driver License and the ability and willingness to travel within NSW

For further information about the role please contact hiring manager Hanwen Wu via email hanwen.wu@dpird.nsw.gov.au

Please click this link to view the role description.

Applications close: Sunday 10 May 2026 at 11:55pm AEDT

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.

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. 

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 and the option to work from regional locations.
• Access professional development opportunities to grow your career.
• Be part of a collaborative, inclusive team that values diversity and innovation.

 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 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.