• Ongoing Full Time, 35 hours per week 
• Location: Willing to consider candidates across all NSW locations. Preference will be given to candidates based regionally, with a focus on Queanbeyan, Armidale, Dubbo and Coffs Harbour.
• Clerk Grade 11/12 – salary from $149,739 to $173,174 per annum (FTE) plus super and leave loading 

About the Role

Reporting to the Director Animal Biosecurity / NSW Chief Veterinary Officer, you will manage the technical components of key animal health programs in NSW (such as the Cattle Tick program), providing program management and expert advice to senior executives to minimise the potential impact on the NSW economy, environment, and the community from key animal biosecurity threats.  

About You

As our ideal candidate, you will bring:

• Extensive experience in project planning and management, with a strong understanding of governance and risk frameworks, performance measures, reporting standards, assessment tools and systems to track, monitor and report on identified milestones and deliverables to ensure effective program delivery. 
• Collaborative and dynamic leadership and ability to work in a high-pressure work environment, ensuring coordination and provision of timely strategic advice, research, information and reports on policy and program development to promote the optimal management of animal biosecurity threats. 
• Proven ability to manage animal health programs with a strong knowledge of government operations, regulatory frameworks and complex animal disease epidemiology to ensure that animal health programs operate in alignment with the strategic objectives of the department, legislative requirements, national obligations and relevant disease-related factors.  
• Proven communication and engagement capability, to foster and maintain strategic and effective relationships with impacted stakeholders including government agencies and industry parties necessary for shared responsibility and program delivery

Essential criteria:

• Tertiary qualifications in veterinary science (or other relevant discipline) and demonstrated experience in animal health program delivery   
• Current Class C NSW Driver’s License & the ability to travel within NSW and interstate as required to engage with relevant stakeholders.  

For further information about the role please contact hiring manager Dr Joanne Coombe, Director Animal Biosecurity, at jo.coombe@dpird.nsw.gov.au. Please click here to download a copy of the role description.

Applications close: Monday 6 April 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.