Ongoing employees affected by change management plans will be given priority consideration for at grade positions
* Temporary Full Time, up to 2 years
* 35 hours per week
* Location: Wollongbar Primary Industries Institute, NSW
* Salary from $105,986 to $116,969 pa + superannuation (commensurate with skills and experience)
Diversity, equity and inclusion are central to the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. We are committed to fostering a workplace where everyone can thrive, reflecting the rich diversity of the communities we serve. We actively encourage individuals of all backgrounds – including but not limited to; gender, age, ethnicity, race, cultural heritage, disability, religion and sexual orientation to submit an application. We strive to ensure that every stage of the recruitment process and overall employee experience is accessible, welcoming and free from barriers.
About the role
Step into a role where your farming expertise and leadership skills make a real difference. As our new Farm Manager, you'll be at the heart of our operations - connecting research, commercial outcomes, and practical farm work.
Based at our Wollongbar site, you'll lead a small, dedicated team of three staff, oversee contractors, and manage a mix of livestock and horticulture enterprises. This is your opportunity to combine strategic management with hands on farming knowledge, supporting both agricultural innovation and industry outcomes.
As the Farm Manager, you will:
* Plan and manage horticultural (orchard) operations, irrigation, and livestock activities
* Lead and develop a team of staff and contractors, driving best-practice farming standards
* Partner with researchers to support trials and agricultural innovation projects
* Build strong connections with industry and market farm produce effectively
* Manage budgets, resources, and compliance programs with confidence
* Ensuring farm safety, asset maintenance and compliance are consistently upheld.
To be successful in the role you will have:
* Qualifications in accordance with Part 2 (xviii) of the Crown Employees (Department of Industry) Technical Staff Award
* Demonstrated experience in cropping orchard and pasture management systems
* Valid driver's licence
* Experience with Livestock (cattle)is highly desirable
For a confidential discussion about this vacancy please contact:
David Miller, Site Manager via or
Click here to view the full role description
Applying is easy
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, 22 October 2025 at 11:55pm AEDT
What to expect next
Once you submit your application, you'll receive an email confirmation. After the advertisement closes, all applications will be reviewed by the hiring manager and selection panel. If shortlisted, you may be invited to an interview—this could be in person or via video. You may also be asked to complete role-related tasks, such as a written assessment, skills test, or psychometric assessment.
Reference checks will be conducted for candidates progressing to the final stages.
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.
About Us
Together, we are DPIRD
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.
The department brings together:
* Local Land Services
* NSW Resources
* Agriculture and Biosecurity
* Fisheries and Forestry
* Regional Development and Delivery.
With nearly 5,000 employees, and 75 per cent of the DPIRD team living and working in regional NSW, we are embedded in the regions we serve.
Learn more about the benefits of joining our diverse and talented DPIRD team.
Additional Information
The successful applicant in this role may be required to undergo a police check, health assessment and other assessments as required.
A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary roles of the same role or role type that may become available for filling over the next eighteen months.
DPIRD is committed to providing an inclusive candidate experience and through the Disability Confident Recruiter program, identify and remove unintended barriers for candidates.