EOI - Leading Hand (Tamworth Agricultural Institute)

Tamworth Agricultural Institute; Tamworth; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading agricultural research organization in Tamworth is seeking a Leading Hand to support farm operations. This full-time position involves hands-on tasks in cropping and animal husbandry, including irrigation, herbicide spraying, and general maintenance. The ideal candidate should have strong skills in agriculture and related practices. Salary is competitive, and applications are welcome from diverse backgrounds.

Responsibilities

• Support the Farm Supervisor with day-to-day maintenance of farm operations.
• Ensure research trials and commercial activities are carried out efficiently.
• Participate in tasks such as irrigation and operating machinery.

Skills

GIS

Engineering

Engineering Practices

Data Collection

Irrigation Systems

Agriculture

CAD

GPS

Water Quality

Biology

Nursery

Emergency maintenance

Technical Assistance

Water conservation

Agricultural Equipment

Job description

Ongoing employees affected by change management plans will be given priority consideration for at grade positions

This is an internal EOI open to DPIRD / LLS staff only

• Temporary up to 12 months
• Full-time 35 hours per week
• Location : Tamworth Agricultural Institute (TAI)
• Salary from $69220 to $75728pa superannuation (Operational Staff Grade 2)

At DPIRD we are committed to fostering a diverse equitable and inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds including but not limited to gender age ethnicity race cultural heritage disability religion and sexual orientation.

About the Role

We’re looking for a Leading Hand to help keep farm operations running. This role you’ll support the Farm Supervisor with day‑to‑day farm and field maintenance making sure both research trials and commercial activities are carried out safely, efficiently and to a high standard.

This is a hands‑on job that covers a mix of cropping and animal husbandry. You’ll be part of the Research Services team working alongside others on tasks such as irrigation spraying herbicides and insecticides helping with cereal harvest, cropping, fencing, operating machinery and general farm maintenance.

Your work will play an important part in keeping farm operations consistent and reliable supporting both our research goals and commercial farming activities.

For a confidential discussion about this vacancy please contact :

Derick Scholtz Site Manager

How to Apply

Please apply via our online portal. Submit your current Resume / CV and a Cover Letter (max. 2 pages) outlining your relevant skills and experience and why you’re our ideal candidate.

Applications Close : Wednesday 10 September 2025 at 11 : 55pm AEST

If you require adjustments in completing your application, interviewing, completing any pre‑employment testing, require information in an alternative format or otherwise participating in the recruitment process please let us know so we can assist. Send an email to or contact the hiring manager listed above for a confidential discussion.

What to Expect Next

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)
• Further assessments will follow (e.g. writing task, skills test, psychometric assessment)
• Reference checks will be completed for final candidates

The successful applicant in this role may be required to undergo reference checks, a national police check, bankruptcy check, health assessment and/or other assessments as required.

Additional Information

This is an internal EOI opportunity. To be considered for an appointment over 12 months or ongoing applicants must be ongoing at either an equivalent or higher grade than this advertised vacancy OR on a current and valid talent pool at this grade or higher. Alternatively, if you do not meet these requirements you may only be considered for a temporary appointment of up to 12 months.

Key Skills

• GIS
• Engineering
• Engineering Practices
• Data Collection
• Irrigation Systems
• Agriculture
• CAD
• GPS
• Water Quality
• Biology
• Nursery
• Emergency maintenance
• Technical Assistance
• Watetr conservation
• Agricultural Equipment

Employment Type : Full-Time

Experience : years

Vacancy : 1