• Temporary Full Time up to 2 years 
• Primary Work Location: Yanco
• Technical Assistant G1-3 - $65,268 to $78,000 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 the Role

As a Technical Assistant, you will support  agricultural and biosecurity activities that contribute to insect pest surveillance and research. Working as part of a collaborative team, you will assist with the receipt, preparation and testing of insect samples, routine laboratory procedures, insect culturing, preparation of materials for laboratory and field activities, and field work to collect insect samples.

This is a hands-on role where no two days are the same. You will work closely with technical and scientific staff to ensure samples are processed accurately, quality standards are maintained and customer expectations are met. The role also contributes to maintaining a safe workplace and supporting compliance with quality assurance requirements.

You will thrive in a structured environment that values teamwork, attention to detail and a commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes.

About You

As our ideal candidate, you are a motivated and reliable team member who enjoys practical, hands-on work and takes pride in delivering high-quality outcomes. You can balance competing priorities, follow established procedures and work collaboratively to support the goals of the team.

As our ideal candidate, you will bring:

• Experience following procedures in a laboratory, field or technical environment, with experience in entomology, biological sciences or a related area desirable.
• Experience undertaking fieldwork under a variety of environmental and weather conditions
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to maintain accurate and comprehensive records
• The ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritise effectively and meet deadlines in a busy work environment.
• The ability to work independently and demonstrate initiative, particularly when undertaking fieldwork
• A commitment to workplace safety and quality standards
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with colleagues and contribute positively to a team environment
• A willingness to learn new technical procedures

Whether you are looking to build your technical career or apply your existing skills in a scientific environment, this role offers an excellent opportunity to contribute to work that supports biosecurity and agricultural industries across NSW.

Essential criteria:

• Qualifications in accordance with Part 2 (xiv) of the Crown Employees (Department of Industry) Technical Staff Award

For further information about the role please contact hiring manager Jess Hoskins, Plant Biosecurity Research Officer on 0457 380 549 or jessica.hoskins@dpird.nsw.gov.au  

** Interviews for this role will be conducted in person at Yanco Agricultural Institute. Please note that a virtual interview option is not available for this recruitment process **

You can also click here to view the role description.

Applications close: 25 August 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.

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.

Additional Information

The successful applicant in this role may be required to undergo a police check, health assessment and other assessments as required.

A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary roles of the same role or role type that may become available for filling over the next eighteen months.

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 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.