Technical Officer - Tropical Pulse Breeding

About the Role

Join the Queensland Government's tropical pulse breeding team as a Technical Officer, contributing to the development of innovative, disease-resistant, high-yield crop varieties for large-scale tropical farming. This role involves working collaboratively within a dynamic team dedicated to advancing Queensland's agricultural legacy.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate closely with project leaders and team members to provide technical assistance on genetic improvement research projects and participate in team planning.
• Manage timely operations such as planting, spraying, harvesting, precise data collection, and monitoring of yield and disease trials in both field and glasshouse settings.
• Prepare computer files for the production of pot tags, seed packet labels, and seed packets.
• Maintain and update a central database for experimental results to facilitate statistical analysis.
• Support seed handling protocols, and conduct activities related to glasshouse and field research.
• Effectively communicate and work independently under supervision as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• For senior Technical Officer level (TO3), coordinate and execute crop breeding activities across multiple onsite and offsite locations including laboratory environments.
• Innovatively address complex technical challenges faced during field trials, occasionally in remote settings.
• Manage electronic inventory records and genetic data files.
• Lead seed handling efforts and oversee glasshouse, laboratory, and field research with minimal supervision.
• Monitor environmental conditions to manage land allocation, and prepare pre-season activities to ensure timely execution of trials.
• Supervise support staff and allocated resources effectively, ensuring project objectives are met.

Technical Requirements

• Proficiency or willingness to learn implementation of experimental designs and procedures.
• Experience or eagerness to develop skills in laboratory, glasshouse, and field research techniques specific to plant breeding and pathology.
• Previous success in conducting field and glasshouse experiments.
• Strong communication abilities to collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including farmers, agronomists, contractors, and facility staff.
• Readiness to live in regional areas, engage in outdoor work, and undertake travel including overnight stays.

Qualifications and Licenses

• Diploma or equivalent credential in Applied Science or related discipline from an accredited institution is essential.
• Possession of a current C-class driver’s licence.
• Preferable qualifications or the capability to obtain: Queensland chemical commercial operator's licence, Australian forklift licence, Australian heavy truck licence, and AMA accreditation as a mungbean agronomist.

Why Choose This Role?

• Work with passion and purpose making a genuine impact for today and the future.
• Engage in diverse and stimulating work assignments.
• Follow a career path of your choice with supportive flexibility.
• Be part of a diverse, inclusive team at DPI Queensland.

Additional Information

Applications will remain open and active for 12 months from the date of posting. Reference for this position is QLD/694819/26. The closing date for applications is Thursday, 23 July 2026. This position is classified under the Primary Industry & Environment occupational group.