Senior Invasive Species Project & Programs Officer in Coffs Harbour

Temporary Full Time up to 4 Years

Primary Work Location: Willing to consider candidates across all NSW locations. Preference will be given to candidates based regionally, with a focus on Queanbeyan, Armidale, Dubbo and Coffs Harbour.

Clerk Grade 7/8– salary from $116,981 to $129,492 per annum (FTE) plus super and leave loading.

About the Role

This role helps reduce the economic, environmental and social impacts of invasive plants by coordinating priority weed programs across NSW. Working with local government, Regional Weed Committees, Local Land Services, industry and community stakeholders, you will support prevention and early intervention activities, coordinate eradication and containment programs, and contribute to weed biosecurity policy, planning and program delivery. It’s a practical, partnership-focused role that brings people together, uses data and local intelligence to identify risks, and turns insights into action to deliver positive outcomes for NSW communities.

About You

You are a confident and collaborative professional who can bring people together, navigate complex issues and drive practical outcomes. You’ll be comfortable coordinating programs, working across multiple stakeholder groups and applying your knowledge to real-world weed biosecurity challenges. As our ideal candidate, you will bring:

• Demonstrated experience coordinating and delivering programs or projects within biosecurity, environmental management, agriculture, natural resource management or a related field.
• Sound knowledge of weed management and biosecurity, including relevant policy, legislative and regulatory frameworks and their practical application.
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to build productive relationships across government, industry and community sectors.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including the ability to use data and local intelligence to identify risks and support prevention, eradication and containment activities.
• Well-developed project management skills, with the ability to plan, prioritise and deliver quality outcomes across competing priorities and timeframes.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the confidence to provide clear advice, technical information, reports, briefings and stakeholder communications.

Essential criteria

• Current NSW Driver License and the ability and willingness to travel.

For further information about the role please contact hiring manager Dr Marita Sydes, Team Leader Weed Responses and Programs on 0473 039 409 or email marita.sydes@dpird.nsw.gov.au from 2 November 2026.

Applications close: Thursday 12 November 2026 at 11:55pm AEDST.

Why Join Us?

At DPIRD, we’re committed to protecting and growing NSW’s primary industries while supporting regional communities. When you join us, you’ll:

• Work on meaningful projects that shape the future of agriculture and biosecurity.
• Enjoy flexible work arrangements and the option to work from regional locations.
• Access professional development opportunities to grow your career.
• Be part of a collaborative, inclusive team that values diversity and innovation.

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 the majority 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.

At DPIRD, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable and 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, religion and sexual orientation. DPIRD is a proud Disability Confident Recruiter, Family Inclusive Employer and Carer Friendly Employer. We are committed to ensuring every stage of the recruitment process is accessible and free from barriers. If you require adjustments or information in an alternative format to participate, please contact talent.advisory@dpird.nsw.gov.au or the hiring manager listed for a confidential discussion.

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.