At a Glance
- Tasks: Support innovative agricultural research and conduct field trials across various locations.
- Company: Join DPIRD, a leader in protecting and developing NSW's primary industries.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Opportunities for career growth and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on agriculture while enjoying outdoor work and diverse tasks.
- Qualifications: Must have relevant qualifications and a current NSW Driver Licence.
The predicted salary is between 29903 - 36549 £ per year.
Temporary Full Time up to 30 April 2028, 35 hours per week.
Primary Work Location: Tamworth Agricultural Institute (TAI), Calala.
Classification: Technical Officer Grade 1/3 – salary from $78,000 to $120,478 per annum (FTE) plus super and leave loading - commensurate with qualifications, skills and experience.
About the Role
In this role you will provide technical support to research projects conducted at the Tamworth Agricultural Institute. You will also be required to support field trials at other NSW DPIRD research sites including Narrabri (Australian Cotton Research Institute) and Breeza (Liverpool Plains Field Station), as well trials at Spring Ridge and Bellata. Further, you will be required to help conduct a regional survey of paddocks located within the Tamworth, Liverpool Plains and Narrabri Shire Council areas.
As part of this role, you will supervise technical staff to ensure work is completed safely, consistently and in line with protocols. This position requires collaboration with internal and external stakeholders who share research facilities and resources, as well as landholders. Your primary role will be to provide technical, administrative and scientific support to research projects focused on improving pulse production, with a focus on the associations that legumes form with beneficial microbes – rhizobia. Day-to-day activities will vary depending on the time of the season and will range from preparation and establishment of field trials, to soil/plant sample collection and assessment, to data entry and interpretation. You will be required to perform a variety of tasks ranging from operating heavy machinery to assessing plant samples in a laboratory. You will be joining a team of approximately ten people involved in pulse and cereal agronomy research. The role will require regular travel to trial sites off-station and will include overnight stays.
About You
To be successful in this role, you must hold:
- Qualifications in accordance with Part A-2 (xviii) of the Crown Employees (Department of Industry) Technical Staff Award.
- Current NSW Driver Licence.
- Ability and willingness to travel to remote locations, including overnight stays.
As our ideal candidate you will bring practical technical capability, strong organisational skills, strong administration and information technology skills, and the ability to work effectively in a team environment. You will enjoy working outdoors, managing multiple priorities and contributing to high-quality research outcomes. You will preferably have experience operating a wide variety of agricultural machinery including heavy-duty tractors and precision planters (as well as experience transporting machinery). You will also be familiar with and proficient in the Microsoft Office Suite of programs and be able to collate and interpret agronomic data at a foundational level.
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.
- Access professional development opportunities to grow your career.
- Be part of a collaborative, inclusive team that values diversity and innovation.
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 capabilities make you a strong fit for the role. Please also address the essential requirements listed in the role description.
Applications close: Tuesday 22 September 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, practical).
- Reference checks will be completed for final candidates.
Additional Information
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. 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.
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 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.
Technical Officer - Cropping Systems (Tamworth Agricultural Institute) employer: Department of Regional NSW Careers
Join Local Land Services as a Senior Biosecurity Officer and be part of a dedicated team committed to protecting natural resources and supporting regional communities in Penrith. With a focus on collaboration, employee growth, and meaningful field-based work, you'll have the opportunity to lead impactful biosecurity projects while fostering a positive workplace culture that values diversity and inclusion. Enjoy competitive remuneration, ongoing professional development, and the chance to make a real difference in biosecurity outcomes across New South Wales.
Contact Details:
Department of Regional NSW Careers Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Technical Officer - Cropping Systems (Tamworth Agricultural Institute)
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We think you need these skills to ace Technical Officer - Cropping Systems (Tamworth Agricultural Institute)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
Certifications Matter:In agriculture, relevant certifications can really give your application a boost. If you have any qualifications related to agricultural practices, pest management, or environmental regulations, make sure to mention them! They're great indicators of your commitment and expertise in the field.
Tailor Your CV to the Agriculture Sector:Your CV should reflect your passion for agriculture. Structure it to emphasise your field experience and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Don't forget to highlight your soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which are essential in this sector.
Passion is Key in Your Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time position, we want to feel your enthusiasm for agriculture in your cover letter. Share why you're drawn to this industry and mention any long-term goals you have that align with what Department of Regional NSW Careers does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Department of Regional NSW Careers
✨Get Familiar with Agricultural Technologies
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest agricultural technologies and tools that are commonly used in the field. Whether it’s precision farming tools or crop management software, being able to discuss these effectively during your interview with Department of Regional NSW Careers will show that you're technically savvy and ready to contribute from day one.
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Since agriculture is a hands-on industry, be prepared to share any practical experiences you've had. This could be through internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects. Discussing specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them can really impress the interviewers, especially in a full-time role at Department of Regional NSW Careers.
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a hot topic in agriculture right now, so it's important to understand current practices and regulations in the industry. Familiarise yourself with concepts like crop rotation, organic farming, and environmental impact. Having informed opinions on these topics can set you apart from other candidates during your interview.
✨Practice Common Industry Scenarios
Expect to tackle a few scenario-based questions that mimic real-life challenges in agriculture. For instance, you might be asked how you would handle a pest infestation or manage resources during a drought. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and showcase your problem-solving skills during the interview with Department of Regional NSW Careers.
