- Temporary Full Time up to 31 July 2029
- Primary Work Location: Orange Agricultural Institute
- Professional Officer Grade 1-4. Salary from $75,728 to $145,422 per annum (FTE) plus super and leave loading. The salary offered to the successful candidate will be commensurate with qualifications, skills and experience, as outlined in the Crown Employees (Department of Regional NSW) Professional Officers Award and the Professional Officer Progression Criteria (1-
About the Role
This research role will focus on testing the efficacy and safety of potential weed biocontrol agents to reduce the risk of priority weeds in NSW. The successful applicant will undertake research trials within the DPIRD quarantine facility based at Orange. They will engage with overseas researchers to identify potential agents and import these into NSW to undertake this research. They will analyse results from this research and prepare applications for release of suitable biocontrol agents. The applicant will also conduct pre- and post-release field assessments of weed biocontrol agents across NSW.
The role is part of a larger team of scientists and research staff working across multiple projects. You will lead individual projects and support other research projects, including assisting with maintaining insect cultures and a quarantine facility. This may involve some weekend work, field and laboratory tasks. Further, this role is based within Weeds Biosecurity, so the successful applicant will also be required to assist in biosecurity emergencies within NSW.
This role offers a unique opportunity to advance your career within the Research Scientist (RS) Classification pathway while remaining in your current position. Employees can choose to apply for entry into the Research Scientist classification, enabling them to formally align their work with a recognised research career structure within the public service. This pathway is ideal for professionals seeking to deepen their research focus while contributing to evidence-based decision making across the public service. To enter the Classification, an employee must have a PhD and completed 12 months of service in their current role. Undertaking scientific research must form the most significant part of their duties.
About You
As our ideal candidate, you will bring:
- Demonstrated experience in entomology or weed biocontrol focused research
- Strong capability in research design, data analysis and applied problem solving (including ecoclimatic modelling)
- Proven ability to collaborate with industry, government and research partners
- Experience communicating complex research clearly to diverse audiences
- A track record of contributing to funding submissions, reports and publications
Essential criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree in science, Agricultural Science, Natural Resources or a related field with post-graduate experience in the same
- Demonstrable experience in developing innovative research solutions and track record of high-quality research output
- Current NSW Driver License and the ability and willingness to travel within NSW
For further information about the role please contact hiring manager Dr Andrew McConnachie on 0428 411 085 or email
[email protected].
Please click here to view the role description
Applications close: 5 July 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.
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
[email protected] 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.
