• 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

The Leader Genetics plays a key leadership role within NSW DPIRD’s Extensive Livestock and Pastures branch, working collaboratively with the Leader Livestock Efficiency and Sustainability, Leader Rangelands & Tropical Pastures, and Leader Slopes and Rangelands Systems to drive the department’s research, development and adoption (R,D&A) program for extensive livestock industries across NSW.

In this role, you will provide strategic direction and operational leadership across the Genetics portfolio, ensuring the successful delivery of impactful research programs that support industry innovation, productivity and sustainability outcomes. You will lead a high-performing team, oversee complex projects and partnerships, and contribute to shaping the future of livestock genetics and genomics research in NSW.

This is an exciting opportunity to influence industry outcomes through collaboration with research organisations, industry stakeholders, government agencies and funding partners.

The role manages up to 12 direct reports.

About You

To be successful in this role, you must hold

• A Degree or post graduate qualifications in agriculture or science based disciplines;
• Current driver’s licence

As our ideal candidate, you will bring:

• Demonstrated experience in leading, mentoring and supervising professional and technical staff
• A thorough understanding and knowledge of genetics and genomics
• Strong knowledge and understanding of livestock genetics and genomics
• Proven experience managing complex research, development and adoption programs and projects
• Excellent communication, negotiation and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to build strong collaborative partnerships across industry, research and government
• Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities, with the ability to identify emerging opportunities in a changing research environment
• Compliance with pre-employment probity screening is mandatory for this role

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.

For further information about the role please contact hiring manager Fay Haynes, Director Extensive Livestock & Pastures on fay.haynes@dpird.nsw.gov.au or 0419 277 549.

You can also view the role description here

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 14 June 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  
• 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.  

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.