Technical Assistant

We are seeking a highly motivated Technical Assistant to join the Australian Grains Genebank (AGG) team. As the national centre for plant genetic resources for grain crops, the AGG provides industry with informed access to crop biodiversity to underpin the development of resilient and productive grain crop varieties. The AGG operates at best practice and applies digital and genomic technologies to acquire, quarantine, conserve and maintain germplasm.

You will provide technical support for a range of activities including seed germination testing, seed processing and subsampling activities to underpin conservation, management and utilisation outcomes. You will have good self-organisation and time management skills, an ability to manage multiple tasks concurrently, high attention to detail, good verbal and written communication skills, and an ability to work independently and harmoniously in a team environment with a diverse range of people. You will also have experience using standard Microsoft Office programs and an ability and willingness to work with new technologies.

Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications

• Experience working with electronic data systems, including electronic management workflows using QR codes, for collecting, recording and maintaining scientific data.
• Demonstrated computer skills using standard Microsoft Office programs, as well as an ability and willingness to work with new technologies.
• Well-developed oral and written communication skills and the ability to work independently and harmoniously in a team environment with a diverse range of people including clients, colleagues and scientific staff.
• Proven self-organisation and time management skills, with demonstrated ability to deal with multiple tasks, establish priorities, meet deadlines, recognise barriers and find effective ways to deal with them and implement necessary changes.
• Knowledge or experience working in ex-situ orthodox seed genebank systems would be well regarded.

This is a fixed term position available until 30 June 2027. The work location for this position is Horsham.

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

Please refer to the Key Selection Criteria provided in the Position Description, including the mandatory requirements.

How to Apply:

If you are a current DEECA employee, please apply via DEECA Careers.

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Applications close 11.59pm on Monday, 04 May 2026.

All applications must be submitted through the online portal. We are unable to consider email or manual applications at this time.

Other relevant information:

Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form and a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History 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. For more information visit applying for a role with us.