• 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

Lead the delivery of invasive invertebrate programs across NSW, including strategy, emergency response and stakeholder engagement. You will oversee the Invertebrate Pest Incursion Strategy, coordinate responses to high risk pests such as fire ants, and work across government, industry and community to strengthen early detection, capability and biosecurity outcomes.

About You

As our ideal candidate, you will bring:

• Strong program leadership in biosecurity, natural resource management or similar
• Proven ability to lead emergency or incident responses under pressure
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and problem-solving skills across sectors

 Essential criteria:

• Tertiary qualifications in agriculture, natural resource management or a similar field or equivalent experience, with experience in leading the delivery of services to primary industries
• Ability and willingness to undertake travel

For further information about the role please contact hiring manager Scott Charlton via email scott.charlton@dpird.nsw.gov.au.  

Please click here to view the role description.

Applications close: Tuesday 5 May at 11:55pm AEDT

Applying is easy!

Please apply via our online portal and submit:

✅ A CV (approx. 4 pages)

✅ A cover letter (approx. 2 pages) Tell us how your experience and skills make you a great fit for this role ensuring you also address the two mandatory targeted questions below:

1. Describe your knowledge of NSW biosecurity legislation or similar and how you have applied it to inform program delivery or policy outcomes.

2. Provide an example of a time you led or supported an incident response. How did you apply incident management principles and coordinate stakeholders?

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.