At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist with hands-on farming activities, from livestock handling to machinery operation.
- Company: Join the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development.
- Benefits: Enjoy subsidised accommodation, a 9-day fortnight, and health initiatives.
- Other info: Great career growth opportunities in a supportive, inclusive environment.
- Why this job: Experience diverse tasks and make a real impact in agriculture.
- Qualifications: Experience in livestock handling and willingness to obtain necessary licenses.
The predicted salary is between 62940 - 69361 $ per year.
Location: Wollongbar Primary Industries Institute
Operational Staff Grade 1 salary from $62,940 to $69,361 per annum (FTE) plus super. Accommodation available on farm with subsidised rent.
About the Role
As a Farm Assistant, you will work closely with the Farm Manager and broader farm team to undertake a variety of operational farming activities across crops, pasture, horticulture and livestock enterprises. The role also plays an important part in maintaining research trials, farm assets, machinery and infrastructure. In this role, you will undertake a variety of practical tasks including:
- Livestock handling
- Irrigation
- Spraying
- Harvesting
- Machinery operation and maintenance
- Fencing
- General farm upkeep
You will also assist in maintaining research plots and accurately recording farm and operational data. No two days are the same. You may be operating tractors and equipment one day, assisting with livestock management the next, and supporting research plots or farm maintenance activities throughout the week.
About You
We're looking for someone who enjoys practical, hands-on work and is willing to get involved wherever needed. You will bring experience in:
- Livestock handling, animal husbandry or orchard operations
- Operating and maintaining tractors and farm equipment
- Fencing, grounds maintenance and farm infrastructure repairs
- Recording stock, chemical, machinery and operational data accurately
Highly regarded qualifications:
- Chemical Accreditation AQF 3 or willingness to obtain
- Current forklift licence or willingness to obtain
The successful applicant will be required to satisfactorily complete a pre-employment health assessment as part of the recruitment process.
What’s in it for you:
- Accommodation available on farm with subsidised rent
- A 9-day fortnight to support your work-life balance
- Opportunities to build skills across livestock, cropping, and farm operations
- A diverse and inclusive workplace where your contribution is valued
- Access to health & wellbeing initiatives and Employee Assistance Programs
Please note: Interviews for this role will be held on site at Wollongbar Primary Industries Institute during the second week of November 2026. Due to the nature of the assessment activities, we are unable to accommodate virtual interviews and candidates will be required to attend in person. Applications close: Monday 26 October 2026 at 11:55pm AEDT.
Additional Information: The preferred candidate will be required to satisfactorily complete reference checks and a Health Assessment prior to appointment. Other pre-employment checks, including a National Police Check, bankruptcy check and/or other assessments, may be required depending on the role.
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.
We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds – including, but not limited to, gender, age, ethnicity, cultural heritage, disability, religion and sexual orientation. DPIRD is a proud 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.
The Welcome Experience: Thinking about moving to regional NSW? Get free, personalised support with housing, schools, jobs, and settling in. Learn more: www.nsw.gov.au/welcomeexperience
Farm Assistant – Wollongbar employer: Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development NSW
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Contact Details:
Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development NSW Recruitment Team
