Genetic Projects Officer

Reports to: Genetic Improvement Projects Manager

Direct reports: None

Employment:  Permanent part-time

Location: Armidale, NSW

Background:

The Australian Wagyu Association (AWA) has rapidly developed its use of advanced genetic and genomic technologies to increase the rate of genetic gain in the Wagyu breed outside of Japan. The AWA is the fastest growing breed organisation in Australia and has a unique position in that it provides global registration and genetic evaluation services for members in over 40 different countries.

Data submission of key growth and carcase traits has increased significantly over the period and this, combined with the introduction of genomics in 2017, has had a positive influence on increasing the accuracy and reliability of Wagyu Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs).

The 2021 – 2031 AWA Progeny Test program aims to consolidate and enhance genetic progress to date by providing a formal program to test progeny from the maximum number of emerging industry sires for high value Wagyu sector traits. The AWA-PTP will also develop new Wagyu-specific traits for reproduction, carcase and eating quality.

2021 – 2031 AWA-PTP Activities to Date

The AWA-PTP was approved by the AWA Board in February 2021 and officially commenced in April 2021. To date the AWA-PTP has had over 125 sire nominations and has joined over 5550 females, Cohort 1 Steers have been processed with carcase camera data and samples collected for fatty acid profiling. The program will commence Cohort 5 joining's in November with 12 contributor herds participating across multiple regions, further strengthening the genetic diversity and robustness of the program.

The Role:

The AWA-PTP Data Officer will be responsible for assisting the Genetic Improvement Projects Manager in delivering resources, data management and support services as part of the AWA team to deliver key outcomes for the AWA Progeny Test Program. They will work very closely with AWA stakeholders including:

• AWA members whose herds and sires participate in AWA projects.
• Reproductive technology service companies.
• AWA recognised DNA testing facilities.
• AWA corporate partners.
• AWA staff and members.

The position will be responsible for the following duties:

AWA Project Assistance

Assist the Genetic Improvement Projects Manager in the implementation of AWA projects including the Wagyu Progeny Test Program and associated commercial development projects. This will include:

• Engagement and direct assistance of contributor herds, sire owners and internal and external stakeholders.
• Assist in the logistical management and coordination of all aspects of the project/s.

Data collection and management

• Data recording, accumulation, and management
• Coordinate the collection of animal performance, pedigree, genomic, and carcase data from contributor herds.
• Ensure data integrity, accuracy, and consistency through validation and quality control processes.
• Enter, manage, and maintain datasets in AWA and external systems (including Power BI and relevant databases).
• Support the integration of new data streams (e.g. carcase camera, feed intake, health and welfare metrics).

Reporting and analysis

• Prepare interim and final reports on project progress, data outcomes, and sire and herd-level performance.
• Assist with the preparation of presentations, fact sheets, and technical reports for stakeholders.

Stakeholder support and communication

• Act as an additional point of contact for contributor herds regarding data requirements and submissions.
• Provide guidance and support to herds on data recording, transfer, and compliance with project protocols.
• Collaborate with industry service providers (e.g. laboratories, processors, technology providers) to ensure timely data capture and flow.

General Duties:

• Provide support to the MSO team and Executive Team as needed
• Assist with the development and maintenance of Standard Operating Procedures
• Assist with the development and maintenance of systems and technologies
• Other duties as required.

The AWA head office is located at Suite 6, 146 Marsh St, Armidale NSW. The position will operate from head office but must be available to travel throughout Australia as required.

This role is part-time, being 32 hours per fortnight.  The remuneration package will be commensurate with the skills and experience of the successful candidate and will be in the range $55,000 to $65,000 per annum (Full Time Equivalent) plus superannuation guarantee contributions of 12%.

To discuss this role please contact Natalie Poole on or

All applicants must supply the following documents for the application to be considered:

· Cover letter

· Resume

· Response to Selection Criteria

Essential:

Tertiary Qualification – Demonstrated completion or near completion of a degree in Agricultural or Animal science or related field.

Proficiency in Microsoft systems including Word, Excel and Outlook.

Proficiency in using databases or visualisation systems like Power BI.

Administration and time-management skills – Ability to assist with the delivery of technical projects including coordination of timelines, data collection and reporting.

Knowledge of Animal Genetics and Breeding Principles – basic knowledge of animal breeding, with an interest in the application of genomic data, EBV's and breeding index's

Well-developed written and oral communication skills.

Commitment to learning and professional development – Demonstrated enthusiasm for learning and proactive attitude towards acquiring new skills.

Current driver's licence.

Highly desirable:

Experience in the beef industry relating to livestock handling, breeding, data recording and genetic principles.

Enjoyment of working in the rural sector.