Help shape the future of agriculture in the Great Southern.

Southern Dirt is one of Western Australia's leading grower groups, delivering practical research that helps farmers make better decisions.

With more than 15 active research and extension projects across cropping and livestock systems, we're looking for an enthusiastic Research & Extension Agronomist to lead and grow our cropping research program.

Whether you're looking for full-time work or greater flexibility, we'd love to hear from you.

About Southern Dirt

Southern Dirt is a not-for-profit grower group based in the Great Southern region of Western Australia, based in Kojonup, working with local Kojonup growers and surrounding including Katanning, Woodanilling, Wagin, Arthur River, Darkan, Boyup Brook to Frankland to deliver agricultural research, development and extension (RD&E;) projects for cropping, regenerative & livestock systems.

We collaborate with growers, researchers, industry organisations and government agencies to identify local priorities and deliver projects that support more productive, profitable and sustainable farming systems. Through on-farm trials, demonstrations, workshops, field days and knowledge sharing, Southern Dirt helps ensure research outcomes are practical, relevant and accessible to our farming community.

We are now managing one of the largest portfolios of applied agricultural R&D; in the Great Southern, with more than 15 active projects, strong partnerships with GRDC, MLA, GGA, universities and industry, and the opportunity for the successful applicant to help shape future research priorities.

Due to continued project activity, we are seeking a full time or part-time Research and Extension Officer to support the coordination, implementation, and reporting of agricultural trials and research projects.

About the Role

Working under the direction of the Executive Officer,



the Research and Extension Officer will assist in coordinating research and development activities, managing project documentation, and supporting the delivery of trials and demonstration sites.

This role will involve working with growers, researchers, industry partners, and project stakeholders to help ensure projects are delivered efficiently and results are effectively communicated.

The role is primarily office-based in Kojonup, with working from home options, field work, farm visits and industry engagement as required.

Key Responsibilities

You'll take ownership of Southern Dirt's cropping research portfolio, working closely with growers, researchers and industry partners to deliver high-quality on-farm research across the Great Southern. No two days are the same.

- Assist in designing & coordinating agricultural trials and demonstration projects

- Support the planning, implementation, monitoring, and documentation of research activities

- Monitoring crop growth and collecting research data

- Work with growers, researchers, and industry partners to support project delivery

- Conduct or assist with farm visits to identify research priorities

- Maintain project records, documentation, and reporting requirements

- Analysing results and helping turn research into practical recommendations

- Developing and preparing research reports, extension material/publications, and presentations

- Presenting findings at field days, workshops and grower events

- Assist with communication of research outcomes to growers and stakeholders





- Maintain relationships with research partners and industry organisations

- Identifying future research opportunities and helping shape new projects

- Other project and administrative duties as required

About You

We are seeking someone who is organised, motivated, and interested in contributing to practical agricultural research.

The ideal candidate will have:

- A degree in Agricultural Science, Agronomy, or a related field
- An interest in agricultural research, trials, and innovation

- Strong organisational and project coordination skills

- Excellent written and verbal communication skills

- Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines

- Solid attention to detail and record keeping

- Confidence using Microsoft Office including Word and Excel
- The ability to work independently and as part of a small team

Desirable

- Knowledge of broadacre farming systems in Western Australia

- Experience assisting with agricultural research trials

- Experience writing reports or working with research data

- Experience engaging with growers or agricultural stakeholders

Requirements

- Relevant qualification in agriculture or similar field

- Current C-class driver’s licence

What We Offer

- Opportunity to contribute to meaningful agricultural research

- Flexible part-time or full-time employment

- Competitive salary (based on experience)

- Work vehicle provided (manual)

- Professional development opportunities

- Opportunities within a growing organisation
- The chance to genuinely influence farming systems across the Outstanding Southern
- A supportive, collaborative team

- Variety: office, paddock and industry engagement

Apply

If you're excited about practical agricultural research and making a real difference for growers, we'd love to hear from you.

Applications should include a cover letter and resume.

Applications close: 01 September 2026

📌 Agricultural Research & Extension Officer (Kojonup)
🏢 Southern DIRT
📍 Kojonup