Join SARDI to deliver and contribute to innovative agronomy research projects across the state.

• Contribute to innovative research shaping sustainable agriculture.
• A rare opportunity to steer cutting-edge agronomy research for the State.
• Ongoing opportunity.

The Opportunity

South Australia's farming systems are evolving rapidly. Climate variability, emerging technologies, shifting market demands, and sustainability expectations are reshaping how we grow food and fibre. This role sits at the centre of that transformation.

As the Program Leader - Agronomy, you will play a pivotal role in steering the scientific direction, strategic priorities, and on‑ground delivery of agronomy research that underpins the productivity, resilience, and sustainability of South Australian farming systems.

A distinctive leadership role for someone with deep expertise in cropping systems who thrives on collaboration, drives innovation, and turns scientific insights into practical change that strengthens South Australia's primary industries.

About Us

South Australia is internationally recognised for the quality of its agriculture, food, and wine. Our regions are the backbone of our state and the economic powerhouse that drives prosperity for all South Australians.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) is a key economic development agency working in partnership with our primary industries and regional stakeholders.  

The South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI) is the research arm of the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA). SARDI conducts independent applied research to help South Australia's primary industries, regions, and communities grow and prosper. Working with industry, government, and research organisations, SARDI delivers practical, evidence-based solutions to improve productivity, manage climate and biosecurity risk, support sustainable resource use, strengthen market access, and drive food and agri-food innovation across key sectors for long-term impact.

We are a passionate team of around 800 people working across metropolitan and regional South Australia to develop and protect our state's regions and food, wine, aquaculture, fisheries, forestry, grains, livestock, dairy and horticulture industries.

It's no wonder there are so many exciting and diverse career opportunities in our organisation. If you're ready to join us, apply now!

Benefits

At the Department of Primary Industries and Regions, we offer our employees challenging and rewarding work with opportunities for career progression, learning and development and flexibility.

Our Commitment to Diversity 

The Department of Primary Industries and Regions is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace.  We embrace diversity and welcome applications from all people, irrespective of culture, faith, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or age.

Benefits you will get in return:

• Genuine flexibility with the option of working a 9-day fortnight.
• Hybrid working model with flexible working options to promote work life balance.
• Salary sacrificing options available.
• Opportunity to advance your career and work with some of the state's leading experts in research and development to support the primary industries across the state.

Special Conditions

• Successful applicant will be required to satisfactorily complete a National Police Check (NPC) prior to being made an offer of employment.
• Ongoing opportunity.
• Full-time, 37.5 hours per week.

Requirements

• Possession of a current driver's license and willingness to drive.
• Out of hours work and inter / intrastate travel may be required.
• Australian residency or current works permit is required (responsibility of applicant to provide evidence of a current work permit).
• You acknowledge your work, health and safety obligations and our expectations when applying for a role.
• The incumbent will be required to undertake emergency management training and must be willing to participate in emergency preparedness, response and recovery activities required by government agencies.

Remuneration

PO5 - $132,121 min - $144,504 max per annum, plus superannuation