• 1 Temporary Full Time up to 30 June 2027 (with possible extension)
• 1 Temporary Full Time role up to 2 years
• Primary Work Location: Wagga Wagga Agricultural Institute (WWAI)
• Technical Officer Grade 1/3 – salary from $75,728 to $116,969 per annum (FTE) plus super and leave loading - commensurate with qualifications, skills and experience 

About the Role

In your new role as a Technical Officer within either the Pulse Agronomy or Pulse Pathology Team, part of the Cropping Systems South Unit based at Wagga Wagga, you will provide technical support to research officers, delivering field-based pulse crop research projects.

You will also be actively involved in managing up to 15 concurrent experiments across multiple locations. The role also plays a part in the smooth day to day operation of research projects, including equipment operation and maintenance, data collection and processing and compliance with work health and safety requirements.

As part of the role, you will supervise and support technical assistants and casual staff, ensuring work is completed safely, consistently and in line with experimental protocols. This position requires regular field work, some regional travel and collaboration with internal and external stakeholders who share research facilities and resources.

About You

To be successful in this role, you will bring practical technical capability, strong organisational skills, a genuine interest in agricultural research and the ability to work effectively in a team environment. You will enjoy working outdoors, managing multiple priorities and contributing to high‑quality research outcomes.

As our ideal candidate, you will demonstrate:

• Experience operating and maintaining machinery and field equipment
• Experience using and maintaining sowing, spraying and harvesting equipment
• Ability to prepare, establish and manage field, glasshouse and laboratory experiments
• Experience collecting, recording and managing research data with a high level of accuracy
• Capability to supervise and coordinate the work of technical assistants and casual staff
• Effective communication skills and the ability to liaise effectively with colleagues and stakeholders
• A willingness and ability to undertake frequent field work in varying weather and site conditions

Desirable:

• A current Heavy Combination (HC) drivers' licence

Essential criteria:

• Qualifications in accordance with Part 2 (xviii) of the Crown Employees (Department of Industry) Technical Staff Award
• Current NSW Driver Licence

For a confidential discussion about the role please contact hiring manager Mark Richards, Research Agronomist Pulse on 0428 630 429 or mark.richards@dpird.nsw.gov.au.

For further information you can view the full Role Description - TO 1-3 -Technical Officer Field - Pathology - Ag

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 (approx. 1 page) Tell us how your experience and skills make you a great fit for this role.

Applications close: Thursday 21 May 2026, at 11:55pm AEST

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  

Additional Information

• 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. 
• 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 

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.  

With the majority 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.