This position works in the Animal Production Sciences (APS) Branch of Agriculture Victoria Research and will provide technical support for a range of agricultural research projects focused on improving the profitability of pasture-based livestock systems.

The Technical Assistant is primarily required to assist with specialised experimental work, including a suite of destructive and non-destructive pasture measurements, methane measurement, animal management and supplementary feeding, preparing specific pasture allocations and diets for experimental animals, implement complex sampling protocols and data collection, and sample preparation according to specific criteria. The appointee will also be expected to manage and maintain equipment, supplies and other resources, and will also be required to supervise and train casual staff in aspects associated with field work and sample preparation. The applicant will need to be flexible and willing to assist other work groups located at Hamilton and elsewhere with research activities as well as support farm activities as required.

You will enjoy flexible working arrangements and undertake a wide variety of work across the branch.

Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications

• A relevant TAFE certificate or Associate Diploma of Applied Science or equivalent qualification or at least three years relevant experience livestock or dairy industries would be highly desirable.
• Demonstrated experience in handling livestock and knowledge of basic animal husbandry techniques, basic pasture agronomy methodology and pasture management techniques.
• Knowledge of, or experience in assisting in the conduct of pasture, animal and greenhouse gas mitigation experiments and operating and maintaining specialised research equipment and instrumentation including sensor-based technologies.
• Demonstrated ability to collect, manage and maintain data and undertake quality control of experimental data including use of relevant computer packages, and the ability to summarise experimental data and provide data in a format for further analysis and for reporting purposes.
• Demonstrated ability to work as an effective team member, operate under limited supervision, show initiative, able to manage workloads in consultation with supervisors, able to supervise casual employees and meet deadlines.
• A sound understanding of the principles of Work Health and Safety (WH&S) and the application of Animal Ethics standards.

There are two fixed term positions available for a period of 3 Years. The work location for this position is Hamilton SmartFarm.

To be considered for these positions, applicants are encouraged to submit a resume and cover letter (no longer than 2 pages) summarising their skills and relevant experience.

For further information please refer to the attached position description.

Applications close at midnight on Monday, 21 April 2025.  

Other relevant information:

Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form and a National Police Check. 

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.