Location & Salary

Location: Wollongbar Primary Industries Institute

Operational Staff Grade 1 salary from $62,940 to $69,361 per annum (FTE) plus super

Contract & Hours Temporary Full Time up to 2 years

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 key 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

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

Interview & Hiring Process 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.

Applications close Monday 26 October 2026 at 11:55pm AEDT.

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.

Contact For a confidential discussion, please contact David Miller, Cluster Manager Eastern via





or on .

About Us 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.

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

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

📌 Farm Assistant (Wollongbar)
🏢 NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development
📍 Wollongbar