Research Leader Freshwater Ecosystems

• Temporary up to 3 years
• Full time, 35 hours per week (Flex time available, allowing additional hours worked to be accrued and taken back as flex leave)
• 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 $154,231 up to $178,369 per annum (FTE) plus super and leave loading

Please note to be eligible to apply for this position you must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or an Australian permanent resident or hold a valid Australian working Visa for the duration of the appointment. 

About the Role
As the Research Leader Freshwater Ecosystems with Fisheries & Forestry, you will lead a talented team of scientists and technicians delivering high-quality research and trusted scientific advice to support the sustainable management and use of freshwater ecosystems across NSW.

This is an exciting opportunity to provide scientific and strategic leadership across a diverse freshwater research program. You will help set research priorities, oversee the delivery of world-class research, manage people and resources, and provide expert advice to senior Fisheries leaders to ensure policy and regulation are underpinned by sound scientific evidence.

About You
This is an exciting opportunity to provide scientific and strategic leadership across a diverse freshwater research program. You will help set research priorities, oversee the delivery of world-class research, manage people and resources, and provide expert advice to senior Fisheries leaders to ensure policy and regulation are underpinned by sound scientific evidence.

We are seeking an experienced and collaborative scientific leader who can inspire and develop people, navigate competing priorities and build strong relationships across government, industry, universities, research organisations and funding partners.

You will bring:

• demonstrated experience leading innovative fisheries research
• strong people and project leadership skills
• The ability to translate complex science into clear, credible advice that supports decision-making

The role has significant responsibility for people, resources and research delivery, including leadership of scientists and technicians and oversight of a substantial research budget.

Essential Requirements

• PhD level qualification in a relevant field or equivalent relevant skills, with experience in driving high-quality, innovative fisheries research projects
• A current Australian Driver’s License

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 here.

For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Katherine Cheshire – Director Fisheries Research via 0400 713 628.

Applications close: Sunday, 11 October 2026 at 11:55pm AEST.

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

talent.advisory@dpird.nsw.gov.au

or contact the hiring manager listed above for a confidential discussion.

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.

If your partner is an essential worker, then we have a free service to support you and your family in your move! To find out more visit The Welcome Experience | NSW Government

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.

Additional Information
The successful applicant in this role may be required to undergo a police check, health assessment and other assessments as required.
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.

DPIRD is committed to providing an inclusive candidate experience and through the Disability Confident Recruiter program, identify and remove unintended barriers for candidates. 

Role Description