We’re hiring two experienced and passionate leaders to drive innovation and impact in cropping systems across NSW

• Ongoing | Full-time | 35 hours per week
• Salary: $149,739 – $173,174 p.a. (FTE) + super + leave loading
• Locations: Preferred locations listed below, but negotiable within region
  Leader Crop Protection – North | Preferred location: Tamworth or Narrabri
  Leader Crop Protection – South | Preferred location: Wagga Wagga or Yanco

About the Roles

The Leader Crop Protection works in collaboration with Director Cropping Systems to lead and manage NSW DPIRD’s research and development program for crop protection in Southern or Northern NSW. This role provides strategic guidance and operational support for crop protection R&D as well as supervising related staff and projects.

Key Responsibilities include:

• Lead, mentor and develop a high-performing research and development team
• Design and deliver strategic crop protection R&D programs in collaboration with co-investors
• Manage projects, contracts and budgets to ensure timely and effective delivery
• Build and maintain strong partnerships with research bodies, industry and government stakeholders
• Provide expert advice on pest, disease and weed management to inform policy and strategy
• Promote a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with WHS and wellbeing initiatives
• Contribute to emergency response and recovery efforts, including biosecurity and natural disasters

About You

The ideal candidate will bring strong leadership experience in agricultural research and development, particularly in crop protection. They will have a proven ability to manage multidisciplinary teams, deliver complex programs, and build effective partnerships across government, industry, and research organisations. A deep understanding of pest, disease, and weed management in cropping systems is essential, along with strong project and financial management skills. The candidate will be a strategic thinker, an effective communicator, and committed to fostering a culture of safety, collaboration, and innovation.

Essential Requirements:

• Degree or post graduate qualifications in agriculture or science based disciplines
• Current driver’s license
• Ability and willingness to travel

For more information, please contact Guy Mcmullen on 0428 256 544 or guy.mcmullen@dpird.nsw.gov.au. You can also view the role descriptions below:

Role Description - Clerk 11-12 - Leader Crop Protection South.pdf

Role Description - Clerk 11-12 - Leader Crop Protection North.pdf

How to Apply 

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: Wednesday 29th October 2025 at 11:55pm

What to Expect Next

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.

 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.

We have skilled and dedicated teams working in 200 locations across regional NSW. 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.

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

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

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.