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• Fixed-term full-time opportunity up to 12 months, 35 hours per week
• Location: Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute, Menangle
• Competitive salary from $73,522 - $113,562 p.a. + superannuation (Technical Officer Grade 1-3)

Diversity, equity and inclusion are central to the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. We are committed to fostering a workplace where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, reflecting the rich diversity of the communities we serve. We actively encourage individuals of all backgrounds – including but not limited to; gender, age, ethnicity, race, cultural heritage, disability, religion and sexual orientation to submit an application. We strive to ensure that every stage of the recruitment process and overall employee experience is accessible, welcoming and free from barriers.

About us

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 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.

About the Role

The Technical Officer role is for our Biotechnology team which focuses on the genetics and genomics of inherited and infectious diseases affecting biosecurity and animal welfare. The Technical Officer role is responsible for conducting laboratory testing and sample processing on diagnostic submissions, as well as research-related samples. This role supports testing and monitoring activities, particularly for identification and surveillance of invasive pests that threaten biosecurity in our marine and freshwater ecosystems.

In this hands-on laboratory role, you will:

• Collaborate with technical and scientific staff to ensure timely turnaround and quality outcomes.
• Perform a range of laboratory tests and sample processing aligned with diagnostic and research priorities.
• Maintain high standards of data integrity, sample tracking, and result reporting.
• Identify ways to streamline testing processes, including development and validation of new procedures
• Work within an ISO17025 and Approved Arrangements Class 5.2 accredited lab environment.

The successful candidate will have:

• Minimum of three years’ experience working in an agricultural or biological sciences laboratory.
  (Relevant postgraduate study at Honours level or higher may be considered equivalent to part of this experience.)
• Demonstrated knowledge and practical experience with molecular testing such as Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR).
• A strong focus on quality and compliance within a scientific or regulatory testing environment.
• Knowledge of next generation sequencing technologies would be considered desirable, but not essential

Essential Requirements

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

What We Offer

DPIRD an attractive place to build your career. You’ll be part of a team that offers:

• A Diverse and Inclusive Workplace
• Flexible, autonomous work environment
• Competitive pay and conditions
• Professional Development
• Health & Wellbeing and Employee Assistance Programs.

Learn more about the benefits of joining our diverse and talented DPIRD team.

💬 For further information about this vacancy please contact:

Brendon O’Rourke, Team Leader Biotechnology on 02 4640 6441 or [email protected]

🔗 Click here to view the full role description

👉 How to Apply

If this role sounds ideal to you, please apply via our online portal by submitting your resume and a brief cover letter outlining how your skills and experience match what we are looking for. We will then get back in touch after the closing date.

Applications Close: Sunday 15 June 2025, at 11:55pm

What to expect next

Once you submit your application, you’ll receive an email confirmation. After the advertisement closes, all applications will be reviewed by the hiring manager and selection panel. If shortlisted, you may be invited to an interview—this could be in person, over the phone, or via video. You may also be asked to complete role-related tasks, such as a written assessment, skills test, or psychometric assessment. Reference checks will be conducted for candidates progressing to the final stages.

The successful applicant may also be required to undergo a police check, health assessment, and other relevant checks as part of the recruitment process.

If you require adjustments in completing your application, interviewing, completing any pre- employment testing, require information in an alternative format, or otherwise participating in the recruitment process, please let us know so we can assist. Send an email to [email protected] or contact the hiring manager listed above for a confidential discussion.

Additional Information

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.

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 Guidelines.