Policy and Projects Officer - Animal Biosecurity

• Temporary Full Time until May 2030
• Location: Willing to consider candidates across all NSW locations. Preference will be given to candidates based regionally, with a focus on Queanbeyan, Armidale, Dubbo and Coffs Harbour 
• Clerk Grade 7/8 – salary from $116,981 to $129,492 per annum (FTE) plus super and leave loading 

About the Role

Join the Animal Biosecurity team and play a key role in supporting the delivery of the NSW Cattle Tick Program and other priority biosecurity initiatives.

In this diverse role, you will coordinate projects, track program milestones, manage reporting and documentation, support stakeholder engagement activities, and contribute to policy and operational outcomes. Working closely with multiple units across NSW DPIRD (including Local Land Services), industry stakeholders and internal teams, you will help ensure the effective delivery of animal biosecurity programs that protect NSW agriculture and regional communities.

About You

As our ideal candidate, you will have:

• Proven experience and strong background in project management, particularly the coordination of complex and time sensitive projects, tracking deliverables and ensuring deadlines are met. Tertiary qualifications in project management would be an advantage but not essential.
• Experience in biosecurity risk management and policy development.
• An understanding of the animal health framework in NSW.
• Strong administrative skills, including MS office document handling, record management and meeting coordination.
• Well-developed written communication skills, including preparing reports, briefing material and responses to ministerial correspondence.
• Ability to work in a multi-disciplinary and remote team and across multiple communications platforms.

Essential criteria:

• Current NSW Driver Licence and the ability and willingness to travel
• Ability to work across a wide range of animal biosecurity issues and participate in teams, working groups and committees

For a confidential discussion please contact hiring manager Brendan Sharpe on 0439 236 324 or via email brendan.sharpe@dpird.nsw.gov.au   

For further information you can download Role Description - Policy & Projects Officer Animal Biosecurity (Clerk 7-8)

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.

Applying is easy!

Please apply via our online portal and submit:

✅ A CV (max. 4 pages)

✅ A cover letter (max. 1 page) Tell us how your experience and skills make you a great fit for this role.

Applications close: Thursday 3 September 2026 at 11:55pm AEST

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.  

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
• Reference checks will be completed for final candidates  

Additional Information

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

DPIRD is committed to providing an inclusive candidate experience and through the Disability Confident Recruiter program, identify and remove unintended barriers for candidates.

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 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.