Dairy Industry Specialist

NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development; Mungindi; On-site; AUD 78,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible work arrangements

Regional locations

Professional development opportunities

Inclusive team

Job summary

NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development is seeking a Dairy Industry Specialist to lead industry development initiatives and support the dairy sector across NSW. You will collaborate with producers, industry bodies, researchers and education providers to deliver projects addressing key risks and improving farm performance.

The role requires a degree in Animal Science or related discipline, strong stakeholder engagement, and willingness to travel.

Qualifications

• Degree qualifications in Animal Science, Agricultural Science, Agricultural Economics or a related discipline

Responsibilities

• Identify opportunities and challenges in the NSW dairy industry, developing practical projects to support sustainable growth
• Collaborate with research, development, extension, and education partners to deliver innovative solutions for priority industry issues
• Provide trusted advice and insights to government and industry stakeholders on dairy industry trends and development opportunities
• Support the adoption of new technologies and farming systems that improve productivity, profitability and sustainability
• Representing DPIRD at industry events, meetings, and forums, building awareness or programs and strengthening industry engagement
• Leading projects from planning through to delivery, including managing resources, timelines, reporting, and evaluation

Skills

Dairy industry knowledge

Project development

Stakeholder engagement

Travel readiness

Education

Degree qualifications in Animal Science or Agricultural discipline

Job description

• Location: Willing to consider candidates across all NSW locations.
• Professional Officer Grade 1/4 salary from 78,000 to $149,805 + super + leave loading – commensurate with qualifications, skills and experience*
• Ongoing, full-time role
• 35 hours per week

About The Role

As a Dairy Industry Specialist, you will lead and support industry development initiatives that respond to current and future needs of the dairy industry. Working closely with producers, industry bodies, researchers and education providers, you will help deliver projects that address key risks, improve farm performance and enhance NSW’s economic position.

Key Responsibilities Include, But Not Limited To

• Identifying opportunities and challenges in the NSW dairy industry, developing practical projects to support sustainable growth
• Collaborate with research, development, extension, and education partners to deliver innovative solutions for priority industry issues
• Provide trusted advice and insights to government and industry stakeholders on dairy industry trends and development opportunities
• Supporting the adoption of new technologies and farming systems that improve productivity, profitability and sustainability.
• Representing DPIRD at industry events, meetings, and forums, building awareness or programs and strengthening industry engagement.
• Leading projects from planning through to delivery, including managing resources, timelines, reporting, and evaluation.

About You

To be successful, you must hold

• Degree qualifications in Animal Science, Agricultural Science, Agricultural Economics or a related discipline

As Our Ideal Candidate, You Will Bring

• Strong knowledge of the NSW dairy industry, including farming systems, key profit drivers, and factors affecting productivity and sustainability
• Experience developing, delivering, and evaluating collaborative projects with measurable outcomes
• Strong stakeholder engagement, communication and relationship-building skills
• A current NSW Driver Licence and willingness to travel as required

This is your chance to make a real impact on the NSW dairy industry. You’ll work on projects that support farmers, strengthen industry performance, and shape sustainable practices across the state — all while collaborating with passionate professionals who share your commitment to regional industries.

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.

For a confidential discussion about the role please contact hiring manager Ken Garner, Manager Dairy on 0437 423 078 or via [e-mail].

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 [e-mail] 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 (e.g. writing task, skills test, psychometric test)
• Reference checks will be completed for final candidates

Additional Information

• *The salary offered to the successful candidate will be commensurate with qualifications, skills and experience, as outlined in the Crown Employees (Department of Regional NSW) Professional Officers Award and the Professional Officer Progression Criteria (1-4)
• The preferred candidate for this role may be required to undergo reference checks, a national police check, bankruptcy check, health assessment and/or other assessments as required.
• A talent pool may be created for ongoing and temporary roles of the same type that may arise within the next 18 months.

Applications close: Wednesday 14 October 2026 at 11:55pm AEST

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.

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.