Technical Assistant

Agriculture Victoria; Shire of Baw Baw; On-site; AUD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action is seeking a proactive technical specialist to support dairy research at the Ellinbank SmartFarm, focusing on pasture-based systems, methane mitigation and farm-related projects.

You will work with scientists and farm staff, perform pasture measurement activities, collect samples, ensure data accuracy, follow SOPs and WHS procedures, and contribute across animal and pasture research activities.

Qualifications

• A middle level TAFE certificate or Associate Diploma of Applied Science or equivalent qualification or experience, OR at least three years relevant experience in dairy farming or other livestock industries would be highly desirable.
• Demonstrated practical experience, or capacity to develop skills, in pasture measurement activities such as pasture assessment, feed sampling, biomass estimation, pasture allocation or related field-based techniques.
• Demonstrated ability to work safely and confidently around livestock and in farm environments, including following SOPs, animal ethics requirements and WH&S procedures.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical support for dairy-related research projects within the Dairy Feedbase and Methane Mitigation program and other research activities at Ellinbank SmartFarm.
• Assist with pasture measurement activities, data collection, and data entry with a focus on accuracy and timeliness.
• Collaborate with scientists, technical staff, farm staff and casual employees to deliver research outcomes.

Skills

Pasture measurement

Dairy farming experience

Data entry

Team communication

Education

TAFE certificate/Associate Diploma

Job description

Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action

This position will provide technical support for dairy related research projects within the Dairy Feedbase and Methane Mitigation program, and other research programs and farm-related activities at the Ellinbank SmartFarm. This includes projects that focus on improving the profitability of pasture-based dairy systems, managing climate variability and reducing greenhouse gas emissions from livestock systems.

To be successful in this role, the appointee will be a proactive and reliable team member with strong communication skills and a willingness to contribute across a range of animal, pasture and farm-based research activities. The role requires good attention to detail, accurate data entry, and the ability to work collaboratively with scientists, technical staff, farm staff and casual employees.

Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications

• A middle level TAFE certificate or Associate Diploma of Applied Science or equivalent qualification or experience, OR at least three years relevant experience in dairy farming or other livestock industries would be highly desirable.
• Demonstrated practical experience, or capacity to develop skills, in pasture measurement activities such as pasture assessment, feed sampling, biomass estimation, pasture allocation or related field-based techniques.
• Demonstrated ability to work safely and confidently around livestock and in farm environments, including following SOPs, animal ethics requirements and WH&S procedures.

This is a fixed term position available for a period of 2 years. The work location for this position is Ellinbank.

To be considered for this position, applicants are encouraged to submit a resume and cover letter (no longer than 2 pages) summarising their skills and relevant experience, and to directly address the Key Selection Criteria.

Applications close 11.59pm on Thursday, 15 October 2026.

Other relevant information

Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form and a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check.

To be eligible for appointment to this role, applicants will possess corresponding work rights for the advertised employment period. Appointment to an ongoing position is only available to an Australian/New Zealand citizen or an Australian Permanent Resident.

An inclusive, culturally safe and flexible workplace

DEECA fosters an inclusive workplace culture and is committed to a fair, accessible, and equitable recruitment process.

We strongly encourage Aboriginal and or Torres Strait Islander people to apply. We recognise the strengths, knowledge and perspectives First Nations people bring and DEECA is committed to a culturally safe and respectful workplace. If you need support to participate, please contact ***************@deeca.vic.gov.au.

• We support flexible working arrangements, including hybrid work, varied hours, part-time work and job sharing.