Manager Sustainable Soils

• Ongoing Full Time, 35 hours per week
• 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 11/12 – Salary from $149,739 up to $173,174 per annum (FTE) plus super and leave loading

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 apply. We strive to ensure that every stage of the recruitment process and overall employee experience is accessible, welcoming and free from barriers. Learn more about the benefits of joining our diverse and talented DPIRD team.

About the Role

As the Manager Sustainable Soils, you will lead a dynamic research and development team dedicated to enhancing the sustainability and productivity of soils across the agricultural sector. This strategic leadership role sits at the intersection of science, policy, and industry collaboration, driving innovation and shaping practices that safeguard one of our most vital natural resources.

The role is responsible for:

• Initiating and delivering high-impact projects, fostering co-investment opportunities, and building enduring partnerships with industry leaders, research bodies, and government agencies.
• Representing the department at state and national forums, advocating for whole-of-government approaches to soil sustainability while providing expert advice on emerging issues to senior leadership.

Your leadership will directly influence the success of soil sustainability initiatives across New South Wales.

About You

As the Manager Sustainable Soils, you will bring to the role:

• Proven experience in leading multidisciplinary teams and delivering impactful research outcomes.
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to build trust and drive co-investment.
• Strategic planning and operational management expertise, including financial oversight and staff development.
• A passion for sustainable agriculture and a commitment to improving soil health for future generations.

Essential Requirements

• Degree or post-graduate qualifications in climate, agriculture or science-based disciplines

Applying is easy

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.

If you'd like to know more about the role, please view the role description: Role Description - Clerk Manager Sustainable

For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Jason Crean on or at

Applications close: Sunday 19 October at 11:55pm AEDT

If you require adjustments in completing your application, interviewing, completing any pre- employment testing, require information in an alternative format, or otherwise participating in the recruitment process, please let us know so we can assist. Send an email to or contact the hiring manager listed above for a confidential discussion.

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, over the phone, 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 may also be required to undergo a police check, health assessment, and other relevant checks as part of the recruitment process.

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.

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.