• Temporary Full Time – 12 months 
• 35 hours
• Location: Willing to consider candidates across all NSW locations
• Clerk Grade 9/10 – salary from $129,464 to $142,665 per annum (FTE) plus super and leave loading  

About the Role 

We are seeking a Senior Project Officer to lead and manage a complex portfolio of programs, services and initiatives supporting the governance, management and commercialisation of DPIRD’s intellectual property and data assets. 

In this role, you will apply strong project, governance and risk management capability to ensure new and existing IP and Data assets are effectively governed from inception through to completion. You will work closely with research, legal, commercial and corporate stakeholders to support compliant R&D contracting, strengthen performance and reporting frameworks, and enable the activation and commercialisation of research outputs and outcomes. 

The role operates within a generic Clerk Grade 9/10 Senior Project Officer framework, while delivering specialist outcomes across IP and Data Asset Management, Research Assurance. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Lead and manage programs supporting intellectual property (IP), data asset management and R&D commercialisation, ensuring compliance with policies and legislation.
• Develop and implement governance, risk and reporting frameworks to effectively manage IP and data assets.
• Partner with R&D teams and legal stakeholders to manage contracts and ensure IP rights and risks are appropriately addressed.
• Support the commercialisation of research outputs, working with stakeholders to drive value and impact.
• Provide expert advice and high-quality briefings to senior leadership on governance, compliance, risk and commercial matters. 

About You 

You are a confident and experienced project professional who brings a strong governance mindset and the ability to operate in complex, multistakeholder environments. You are comfortable working across research, legal, commercial and corporate interfaces, and can translate complex issues into clear, practical advice. 

You bring: 

• Demonstrated experience managing projects or programs in a policy, regulatory, research or commercial environment
• Strong governance, risk management, performance measurement and reporting capability
• Experience working with contracts, intellectual property, data or commercialisation activities (or the ability to quickly develop this expertise)
• Highly developed stakeholder engagement and communication skills
• Proven ability to prepare high quality written material for senior executives
• A continuous improvement mindset and the ability to embed best practice tools and processes 

For further information about the role please contact hiring manager Krista Mentjox, Principal Project Officer on 0447 110 058 or email krista.mentjox@dpird.nsw.gov.au  

Click here to view the full  Role Description

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. 

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.  

Applications close: Sunday 12 April 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.  

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.