Ongoing, full-time role
Location – Orange (preferred), Dubbo, Albury or other locations by negotiation
Professional Officer Grade 5, offeringan attractive salaryranging from $149,739to $152,730 + super + leave loading
Diversity and inclusion are core DPIRD values. Everyone has the right to contribute and participate to their full potential. We are committed to supporting a diverse and inclusive culture that is respectful, welcoming and flexible – a workplace where our people feel supported, valued, and part of our collective success.
About the Role
As Team Leader Weed Responses and Programs, you will manage a team of State Priority Weed Coordinators, regulatory officers and other staff who are located across NSW, overseeing the implementation of statewide weed policy, rapid response programs, and the NSW Weeds Action Program. You will work closely with Local Government, Local Land Services, industry, and the Invasive Species Biosecurity Unit to ensure high-quality, sustainable weed management outcomes across the state.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead the implementation of the NSW Biosecurity Act for weed management through strong collaborative partnerships with Local Government, Local Land Services, and other stakeholders.
* Coordinate planning, preparedness, emergency responses, state-wide and cross-border taskforce groups, and reporting for all state priority weed projects.
* Manage and lead emergency responses to new weed incursions.
* Provide expert, timely advice on weed management, including responses to ministerial and executive brief requests.
* Supervise, inspire, and provide strategic direction to a team of regionally based officers and support staff.
* Oversee grant allocation, project implementation, and reporting for NSW Weeds Action Program projects.
* Manage the Weeds Information Database, reviewing risk assessments and biosecurity information system records.
Key Challenges:
* Address the increasing trend of state priority weed incursions linked to human and trade movements.
* Manage existing and new state priority weed incursions across NSW while coordinating with diverse stakeholder groups.
* Build and maintain relationships with industry, partners, universities, and government in a changing environment.
What you need to be successful:
* Bachelor's degree in Science, Agricultural Science, Natural Resources, or a related field.
* Demonstrated leadership and team management experience.
* Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills.
* Proven experience in weed management, biosecurity, or environmental programs.
This is a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in protecting NSW's biodiversity, agricultural productivity, and natural landscapes. You will work with a passionate, high-performing team, influence statewide biosecurity strategies, and lead innovative responses to emerging weed threats.
Apply Now to take the lead in shaping the future of weed management across NSW.
Applying for the role
Apply online by submitting a current resume and brief cover letter (max 2 pages) that outlines your skills and experience relevant to the role.
For more information about the role, please view the Role Description.
Additionally, if you would like to hear more about this role, please contact Pete Turner, Manager Weeds Biosecurity, Agriculture and Biosecurity via pete.turner@dpird.nsw.gov.au or on 0409 692 946.
Application Closing Date: Sunday 22 February 2026
What to Expect Next
After applying:
* You'llreceive a confirmation email
* We'llreview 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.writingtask, skillstest, psychometricassessment)
* Reference checks will be completed for final candidates
Additional Information
* The preferred candidate for this role maybe requiredto undergo reference checks, a national police check, bankruptcy check, healthassessmentand/or other assessments asrequired.
* A talent pool may be created for ongoing and temporary roles of the same type that may arise within the next 18 months.
About us – together, we are DPIRD
The New South WalesDepartment of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) protects,supportsand 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,vegetationand forests.
The department brings together:
* Local Land Services
* NSW Resources
* Agriculture and Biosecurity
* Fisheries and Forestry
* Regional Development and Delivery.
We have skilled and dedicated teams working in 200 locations across regional NSW. Withnearly 5,000employees, and 75 per cent of the DPIRD team living and working in regional NSW, we are embedded in the regions we serve.
Diversity,Equityand Inclusion
At DPIRD, we are committed to fostering a diverse,equitableand 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,religionand sexual orientation.
DPIRD is a proud a 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.
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