Farm Assistant (Wollongbar)

Temporary Full Time up to 2 years Location: Wollongbar Primary Industries Institute Operational Staff Grade 1 salary from $62,940 to $69,361 per annum (FTE) plus super Accommodation available on farm with subsidised rent About the Role As a Farm Assistant, you will work closely with the Farm Manager and broader farm team to undertake a variety of operational farming activities across crops, pasture, horticulture and livestock enterprises.

The role also plays an important part in maintaining research trials, farm assets, machinery and infrastructure. In this role, you will undertake a variety of practical tasks including livestock handling, irrigation, spraying, harvesting, machinery operation and maintenance, fencing and general farm upkeep. You will also assist in maintaining research plots and accurately recording farm and operational data.

No two days are the same. You may be operating tractors and equipment one day, assisting with livestock management the next, and supporting research plots or farm maintenance activities throughout the week.

About You

We're looking for someone who enjoys practical, hands-on work and is willing to get involved wherever needed. You will bring experience in: Livestock handling, animal husbandry or orchard operations Operating and maintaining tractors and farm equipment Fencing, grounds maintenance and farm infrastructure repairs Recording stock, chemical, machinery and operational data accurately Highly regarded qualifications Chemical Accreditation AQF 3 or willingness to obtain Current forklift licence or willingness to obtain The successful applicant will be required to satisfactorily complete a pre-employment health assessment as part of the recruitment process.

What’s in it for you: Accommodation available on farm with subsidised rent A 9-day fortnight to support your work-life balance Opportunities to build skills across livestock, cropping, and farm operations A diverse and inclusive workplace where your contribution is valued Access to health & wellbeing initiatives and Employee Assistance Programs For a confidential discussion, please contact David Miller, Cluster Manager Eastern via david.

j.miller@dpird.nsw.gov.au or on 02 6626 1208. If you’d like to know more about the role, please click here to view the role description. Please note: Interviews for this role will be held on site at Wollongbar Primary Industries Institute during the second week of November 2026. Due to the nature of the assessment activities, we are unable to accommodate virtual interviews and candidates will be required to attend in person.

Applying is easy! Please apply via our online portal and submit: ✅ A Resume/CV ✅ A cover letter (max 2 pages) outlining your experience, skills and capabilities that align with the role. Please note to be eligible to apply for this position you must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or permanent resident or hold a valid Australian working visa for the duration of the appointment.

We are unable to support employer sponsored workers visas unless specifically referenced in the advertisement. Applications close : Monday 26 October 2026 at 11:55pm AEDT After applying: You’ll receive a confirmation email We’ll review all applications once the ad closes If shortlisted, you may be invited to an in-person interview Further assessments will follow Reference checks will be completed for final candidates Additional Information The preferred candidate will be required to satisfactorily complete reference checks and a Health Assessment prior to appointment.

Other pre-employment checks, including a National Police Check, bankruptcy check and/or other assessments, may be required depending on the role. 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. 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 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.

The Welcome Experience Thinking about moving to regional NSW? Get free, personalised support with housing, schools, jobs, and settling in. Learn more: www.nsw.gov.au/welcomeexperience