We’re hiring two experienced and passionate leaders to drive innovation and impact in farming 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 Farming Systems – North | Preferred location: Tamworth or Narrabri
  Leader Farming Systems – South | Preferred location: Wagga Wagga or Yanco

About the Roles

As the Leader Farming Systems, you will spearhead the research and development of cropping systems in regional NSW. You'll manage a team of scientists and projects, develop and maintain relationships with key partners, and secure funding for new initiatives. Your work will directly support the region's agricultural industry, ensuring research is effective and aligns with strategic goals, and ensuring a high standard of safety and quality.

There are two roles, the Leader Farming Systems, North located in Northern NSW and Leader Farming Systems, South located in Southern NSW

About You

As our ideal candidate, you will bring:

• Degree or post graduate qualifications in agriculture or science based disciplines
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to manage and develop a high-performing research team
• Extensive experience leading complex research and development programs, from inception to completion, on time and within budget
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain strong collaborative relationships with a variety of stakeholders and partners
• Expertise in identifying and securing new research and development funding and opportunities
• Ability and willingness to travel for work purposes.

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 Farming Systems South.pdf

Role Description - Clerk 11-12 - Leader Farming Systems 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.