• 4 years Temporary 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 
• Professional Officer Grade 5 - salary from $154,231 to $157,312 per annum (FTE) plus super and leave loading 

About the Role

As a Senior Policy and Project Officer (Technical Specialist), you will provide expert technical advice and lead projects that protect livestock industries, support market access and strengthen biosecurity outcomes across the state. Working with producers, veterinarians, researchers and government partners, you will develop evidence-based policy, manage emerging risks and deliver practical solutions, with a key focus on the NSW Cattle Tick Program.

You will provide specialist advice on cattle tick treatment, chemical resistance and residue management, contribute to technical guidance and training materials, and represent NSW on important biosecurity initiatives.

This is an exciting opportunity to influence policy, solve complex challenges and make a lasting impact for NSW agriculture.

About You

You are an experienced animal health, veterinary or agricultural professional with a passion for protecting livestock industries from biosecurity threats. You enjoy solving complex problems, working with a diverse range of stakeholders and translating technical information into practical policy and program outcomes.

As our ideal candidate, you will bring:

• Demonstrated experience in biosecurity risk management and policy solution development.
• Experience in animal health programs relating to ruminant species within the Australian context, including integrated approaches to disease prevention and control.
• Strong understanding of Australia's animal health framework
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to build productive relationships across industry, government, research and veterinary sectors.
• Excellent analytical, communication and project management skills, with the ability to manage complex issues and deliver high-quality outcomes.

To be successful in this role you must hold (essential criteria):

• Tertiary qualifications in Agricultural, Animal or Veterinary Science, or similar
• Current NSW Driver Licence and the ability and willingness to travel

For a confidential discussion about the role please contact hiring manager Rob Williams, Manager Programs via rob.williams@dpird.nsw.gov.au or 0438 879 850.

You can also view the role description here

Applying is easy!

Please apply via our online portal and submit:

✅ A CV (max. 4 pages)

✅ A cover letter (max 2 pages) outlining how your skills, experience and knowledge make you a strong candidate for this role.

Applications close: Thursday 13 August 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  

Additional Information

• The preferred candidate for this role may be required to undergo 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.

DPIRD is committed to providing an inclusive candidate experience and through the Disability Confident Recruiter program, identify and remove unintended barriers for candidates.

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.