Research Officer Cereal Agronomist / Physiologist

• Research Officer (Field based - Cereal Agronomist / Physiologist)
• Ongoing full-time opportunity
• Location - Tamworth
• Professional Officer Grade 1/4 – Salary range $67,975 - $130,553 pa + super

Diversity and inclusion are core values of the Department of Regional NSW. We encourage applications from people with a range of backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. This includes differences in culture, gender, sexual orientation, language and disability status or other attributes. The Department of Regional NSW is a workplace where everyone is able to contribute and participate to their full potential, and we are proud to have a team that reflects the richness and complexity of the regional NSW communities we serve.

About our team

The NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI) supports the development of profitable primary industries that create a more prosperous NSW and contributes to a better environment through the sustainable use of natural resources.

Within NSW DPI, Agriculture (DPI Ag) leads agricultural industry development through extension, science and research, industry policy and regulatory compliance functions to foster sustainable and economic agricultural industries.

About the role

As a Research Officer you will lead and conduct field based cereal crop research that enhances the productivity and resource use efficiency of cereal crops and cropping systems for the farming enterprises of the central and northern grains region of NSW. This role is primarily a field based role, therefore if you have experience conducting agronomic field trials and enjoy being outside then please consider applying.

Your key accountabilities will include building and maintaining collaborative relationships with stakeholders, identifying and prioritising emerging industry research issues and establishing and managing experiments in accordance with field trial protocols and best management practice.

Key Accountabilities:

• Build and maintain collaborative relationships with stakeholders and partners to develop and implement research and development projects to meet industry needs.
• Identify and prioritise emerging industry research issues to ensure a targeted research and development program relevant to the needs of the agricultural sector.
• Establish and manage field experiments in accordance with trial protocols and best management practice and contribute to the effective and timely delivery of program objectives.
• Ensure suitable implementation of new field technologies and maintenance of research equipment.
• Review research findings and develop and/or update information and publication materials for dissemination to industry.
• Report on, and wherever possible quantify, the impact of research activities on industry profitability and sustainability.
• Manage field technical staff and day-to-day operations to deliver against research outcomes.

Essential requirements

• PhD qualification in plant science or similar related discipline
• Demonstrated experience attracting and managing research projects including team leadership
• Understanding of the key challenges and opportunities for cropping systems in central and northern NSW
• Current drivers license
• Willingness and ability to travel to remote locations

If you have the capability to achieve success in this role and are interested in creating a more prosperous Regional NSW, we would love to hear from you!

Applying for the Role

To apply, please attach a copy of your CV (maximum 4 pages) and a cover letter (maximum 2 pages) that tells us about your relevant skills and experience.

Application Closing Date – January 31, 2023.

For further information about this opportunity view the full role description or contact Narelle Moore on 0428 286 414 or via narelle.moore@dpi.nsw.gov.au

Who is the Department of Regional NSW? Why work for us?

We work hard every day to support and grow thriving communities across regional NSW that will have a positive impact on generations to come. Our goal and ‘open secret’ is always to be a trusted local partner and problem-solver working deeply in community.

As part of our team, you will be able to: 

• Deliver with impact. You are empowered and trusted to create impact through exposure to cutting edge projects and research, career defining opportunities, and get to be part of a team creating sustainable solutions that will leave a legacy.
• Connect to what matters. We are all about forming deep community relationships, fostering our passionate and connected teams. It is central to our work to support a true sense of belonging across the team.
• Live your way. From bringing your whole self to work, through to designing flexibility, that fits you and the team, at Regional NSW you will be able to find the balance that works for you.

We are a young agency, but with that has come a personality that is dedicated, passionate, proactive, influential, and informed. We’re all about ‘having a crack’.

The Department of Regional NSW was formed in 2020 as a central agency for regional issues and is focused on creating a liveable, inclusive and sustainable NSW with thriving natural environments/regions and strong economic prosperity. Our Department is responsible for building resilient regional economies and communities, strengthening primary industries, managing the use of regional land, overseeing the state’s mineral and mining resources and ensuring government investment in regional NSW is fair and delivers positive outcomes for local communities and businesses.

Our commitment to flexible working

The NSW Department of Regional NSW is committed to ensuring the sector reflects the NSW community it serves. We support an inclusive workplace where staff have access to opportunities and resources at all levels, enabling our team members to drive innovation, productivity, and delivery of high-quality services. We are open to discussing flexible working arrangements and encourage our people to explore new ways of working - including part-time, job-share or working from different locations. Everyone can ask about it.

Additional Information

A talent pool may be created from this recruitment action for ongoing and temporary roles of the same standard that may become available for filling over the next eighteen months. The successful applicant in this role may be required to undergo a police check, health assessment and other assessments as required.