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Research Farm Manager
Department of Primary Industries and Regions
Job reference: 855408
Location: 5350 - ROSEDALE
Job status: Ongoing
Eligibility: Open to Everyone

About the Opportunity

The South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI), the research division of PIRSA, is recognised nationally and internationally for delivering world-class research that drives the productivity, sustainability and profitability of South Australia's primary industries.

Are you a visionary agricultural leader passionate about people, innovation, and the future of farming? As SARDI's Research Farm Manager, you will lead the SARDI Farm Network and the iconic Turretfield Research Centre, inspiring teams and driving operational excellence across one of South Australia's premier agricultural research environments. Working at the intersection of farming, science, and industry, you'll help deliver research and innovation that shapes the future of agriculture while building capability, fostering collaboration, and creating lasting impact for South Australia's primary industries.

Situated in the heart of South Australia's agricultural landscape, Turretfield Research Centre is one of the state's flagship agricultural research facilities.

The centre is home to leading livestock and mixed farming research programs and plays a key role in advancing sheep genetics, animal production systems, sustainable farming practices and emerging agricultural technologies.

What You'll Do

  • Provide leadership across the SARDI Farm Network.
  • Lead and develop Farm Managers and operational teams across multiple sites.
  • Manage mixed farming operations at Turretfield Research Centre.
  • Support the delivery of high-quality agricultural research.
  • Drive innovation through modern farming technologies and practices.
  • Build strong relationships with researchers, industry and key stakeholders.
  • Oversee budgets, assets, livestock programs and infrastructure.
  • Champion safety, sustainability and continuous improvement.

What You'll Bring

You are a collaborative and forward-thinking leader with:

  • Extensive experience managing broadacre and livestock enterprises.
  • Strong people leadership and team development skills.
  • Sound business, financial and resource management capability.
  • Experience building productive partnerships with industry, research and government stakeholders.
  • A track record of operational excellence and continuous improvement.
  • Strong knowledge of biosecurity, animal ethics, WHS and risk management.
  • The ability to balance commercial outcomes with research priorities.

Benefits and Perks

Enjoy a rewarding leadership role with a competitive remuneration package while working at the picturesque Turretfield Research Centre. This unique opportunity offers the chance to collaborate with leading researchers, scientists and passionate farming professionals who are shaping the future of agriculture. With housing support available, flexible working arrangements, ongoing professional development opportunities, and a supportive and inclusive workplace culture, you'll be empowered to make a meaningful impact while enjoying an exceptional work environment and lifestyle.

The Ideal Candidate

You're a respected agricultural professional who thrives on leading people, solving complex challenges and delivering results. Most importantly, you're inspired by the opportunity to contribute to research and innovation that will shape the future of farming in South Australia.

Be part of the team helping to shape the future of agriculture. Apply now and lead one of South Australia's premier agricultural research facilities.

Remuneration
OPS6 - $97,292 min - $102,456 max per annum, plus superannuation

 

For further details about the role, including its responsibilities, special conditions, requirements and desirable qualifications, please refer to the Role Description.

 

Confidential Enquiries

Steve Olson

Acting General Manager, Research Support
Phone: 84292213
Email: [email protected]


Website: www.pir.sa.gov.au

 

Application Instructions

All applications must be submitted online.

If you are interested in this opportunity, please see the attached applicant instructions, and outline your skills and experience in relation to the Professional and Technical Knowledge, Business and Commercial Acumen and Planning and Organising Work capabilities of the attached role description.

Applicants must include the contact information of at least 2 referees with 1 being your immediate supervisor/manager and a completed “Pre-Employment Declaration in the SA Public Sector” form.


Applications close: 07/09/2026 11:45 PM

Attachments:
- Application Guidelines#2.pdf
- Pre-Employment-Declaration_240522.pdf
- RD - Research Farm Manager OPS6.pdf


Flexibility Statement
The South Australian public sector promotes diversity and flexible ways of working including part-time. Applicants are encouraged to discuss the flexible working arrangements for this role.