- 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
- Professional Officer Grade 6 – Salary from $162,153 - $167,165 pa (FTE) + super and flex
About the Role
As a Senior Veterinary Epidemiologist, you will provide expert advice on terrestrial and/or aquatic biosecurity, emergency management and the impacts on primary industry. Applying your scientific and epidemiological expertise, you will support the development of government policy, programs and responses to emerging animal health and biosecurity issues.
You will deliver expert scientific and veterinary advice to inform DPIRD policy and program development, animal health program management, and incident management strategies. The role is responsible for identifying animal biosecurity risks, priorities and strategic responses across NSW; evaluating policy and program effectiveness; and supporting the integration of state and national biosecurity initiatives.
A key aspect of this role is building and maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders across government, industry, research organisations, Local Land Services, Animal Health Australia, universities, private veterinarians, and the Commonwealth. Through these partnerships, you will promote collaboration and ensure advice reflects contemporary science, best practice epidemiology and risk-based decision-making.
The role also contributes to the planning, implementation and evaluation of animal health programs and biosecurity incident responses.
About You
You are an experienced veterinarian with strong epidemiological expertise and a passion for protecting animal health and supporting the sustainability of Australia's primary industries.
You bring experience applying epidemiological principles to disease surveillance, biosecurity risk management and emergency animal disease preparedness and response. You can analyse complex information, identify emerging risks and provide practical, evidence-based advice that informs policy, programs and operational decision-making.
You are a collaborative professional who builds effective partnerships, communicates complex information clearly and is comfortable providing advice on challenging and sometimes politically sensitive issues.
As our ideal candidate, you will bring:
- Experience applying epidemiological principles to animal disease surveillance, biosecurity risk assessment and disease control programs.
- Strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret and communicate complex scientific and epidemiological information.
- Experience providing evidence-based advice to support policy development, program delivery and strategic decision-making.
- Sound knowledge of Australia's animal health and biosecurity framework and contemporary biosecurity issues.
- Experience preparing high-quality briefs, reports and advice for senior decision-makers.
- Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills.
- A willingness to undertake training and participate in emergency responses related to biosecurity hazards and natural disasters.
Essential criteria:
- Tertiary qualifications in Veterinary Medicine, immediately registrable in NSW (if not already).
- Current NSW Driver Licence and the ability and willingness to travel within NSW.
- Adept at using Microsoft Office apps and electronic record keeping.
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 a confidential discussion about the role please contact hiring manager
Jane Bennett | Manager Animal & Aquatic Biosecurity Policy
0458 527 712
For further information, 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: Tuesday 28 July 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
[email protected] 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
- 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.
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.
