• Temporary role – 13 Months

• Primary Work Location: Menangle   

• Professional Officer G 1-4 - $75,728 to $145,442 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 

Join a highly skilled scientific team at the forefront of protecting NSW’s agricultural industries and environment. In this role, you will provide specialist bioinformatics expertise to support animal and plant biosecurity, veterinary diagnostics, and applied research programs.  

Working within Animal and Plant Research & Diagnosis, you will undertake complex genomic and sequence analyses to support responses to suspected biosecurity incursions and contribute to innovative research projects across Biosecurity and Food Safety. You will play a key role in developing and improving diagnostic capabilities through genomic technologies, while also designing and implementing software pipelines that enhance laboratory data management and analytical processes.  

This is an exciting opportunity to apply cutting-edge bioinformatics techniques to real-world challenges, contributing to emergency disease responses, scientific discovery, and the ongoing advancement of biosecurity and diagnostic services in NSW. 

About You 

As our ideal candidate, you will bring: 

• Demonstrated experience in applying bioinformatics techniques and genomic technologies to analyse complex biological data and solve scientific problems. The ideal candidate would be able to demonstrate application of their experience in the fields of entomology, mycology, virology, bacteriology, parasitology or other fields related to animal and plant biosecurity.   

• Strong programming and software development skills, with experience designing, implementing and maintaining high throughput sequencing analytical pipelines and automated data workflows.  

• Experience contributing to scientific research projects, including data analysis, interpretation, publication of findings and the preparation of funding or grant applications.  

• A commitment to scientific excellence, including quality assurance, reproducibility, data integrity and continuous improvement of analytical methods.  

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively across multidisciplinary teams and deliver high-quality outcomes within challenging timeframes. 

Essential criteria: 

• Degree qualification in Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics, or related field 

For further information about the role please contact hiring manager Daniel Bogema, Biosecurity Molecular Epidemiologist on 02 4640 6154 or email daniel.bogema@dpird.nsw.gov.au. 

You can view the role description by clicking here

Applications close: 12 July 2026 at 11:55pm AEST 
 

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.