The Technical Officer – Horticulture within the Crop and Resource Sciences branch will provide technical support for the delivery of research projects at the Tatura SmartFarm. The successful applicant will work closely with the team at Tatura and other researchers in Agriculture Science and Technology (AS&T) to explore innovative management solutions to make orchards more profitable and sustainability in future climates. Tree water stress signatures during drought, and innovative orchard designs will be the immediate projects that the successful applicant will work on. The position requires a person with knowledge of fruit tree agronomy and technical skills in field research as well as written and oral communication abilities. The successful applicant will be required to work with minimal supervision and to take responsibility for training and supervising casual support.
Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications
* An appropriate degree and/or experience in Agricultural Sciences, Science, or an equivalent science qualification.
* Proven ability to establish and maintain field experiments to meet the requirements of contracted research projects.
* Demonstrated experience in the operation, maintenance, and the capture and analysis of data from contemporary scientific instruments and platforms for measuring the response of fruit trees to experimental treatments.
* Sound knowledge of and interest in temperate fruit production.
This is a fixed term position available for a period of 3 years. The work location for this position is Tatura SmartFarm with hybrid work arrangements available.
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.
Please refer to the Key Selection Criteria provided in the Position Description, including the mandatory requirements.
How to Apply:
Please apply via DEECA Careers.
Applications close 11.59pm on Thursday, 29th January 2026.
All applications must be submitted through the online portal. We are unable to consider email or manual applications at this time.
Other relevant information:
Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form.
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.
A Diverse, Inclusive and Flexible Workplace
DEECA welcomes applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds and we focus on the essential requirements of the job and being consistent and fair in our treatment of all applicants. We also understand that a balanced life is important to our employees. Talk to us about our flexible options such as working some days from home, starting early or late, working part time, job sharing or accessing paid or unpaid leave. For more information visit applying for a role with us.