Technical Assistant (Animal Attendant)

Work within the Virology Diagnostic and Research Laboratory at Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute as an animal attendant and to assist with the collection, receiving, preparing and testing for viruses.

x2 Temporary Full Time positions (2 year contracts)
Located at Menangle within the Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute
Technical Assistant Grade 1-3 – Salary from $63,367 - $75,728 per annum (FTE) plus super and leave loading
Be part of a team providing laboratory testing and animal health research

About the Role

We are seeking Technical Assistants to join the Virology Diagnostic and Research Laboratory within NSW Biosecurity & Food Safety at the Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute (EMAI), Menangle. These are a full-time, two-year opportunity, with part-time/job share arrangements considered for the right candidate.

As a Technical Assistant, you will play a vital role in supporting animal health research and diagnostic testing. Your responsibilities will include:

Sample Collection, Processing and Testing: Assist with the collection, receipt, preparation, and testing of samples from farm and aquatic animals for evidence of viral infections. Ensure all procedures comply with biosecurity and laboratory standards.
Animal Care and Welfare: Provide hands-on care for a variety of terrestrial and aquatic species, ensuring their health, nutrition, and housing sanitation. Duties include feeding, watering, cleaning enclosures, and monitoring animal behaviour and well-being.
Biosecurity Compliance: Maintain strict biosecurity protocols to prevent disease transmission and safeguard research integrity.
Research Support: Work collaboratively with scientists and technical staff on animal health research projects, contributing to the advancement of biosecurity and disease prevention strategies.
Laboratory Operations: Perform general laboratory duties, including preparation of materials, cleaning, and safe handling of biological specimens.
Data Recording and Reporting: Accurately document animal health observations, environmental monitoring, and laboratory results in accordance with standard operating procedures.

This role offers a unique opportunity to combine animal care with laboratory science, contributing to critical research that protects NSW’s agricultural and aquaculture industries.

About You

To succeed in this role, you will bring:

A genuine interest in biological sciences and animal health
Experience working with and caring for animals in a research or similar environment
A strong commitment to biosecurity and disease prevention
Excellent attention to detail and systematic record-keeping skills
Qualifications that meet Part A, 2 (xv) of the Crown Employees (Department of Industry) Technical Staff Award
A current NSW Driver’s Licence

You’ll stand out if you also have:

Hands-on experience monitoring animal health and welfare, with knowledge of animal care and ethics protocols
Familiarity with accredited laboratory environments and following standard operating procedures
Skills in routine procedures such as blood collection and general laboratory duties
The ability to identify and report abnormalities in animal behaviour or health

What will help you thrive in this role:

Strong time management skills and the ability to prioritise tasks
Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
A collaborative mindset and willingness to work as part of a team
Adaptability and a proactive approach to learning new skills
A keen eye for detail, particularly when observing animal behaviour and health