Combine your practical cattle experience with your interest in agricultural research at Victoria River Research Station.
The Northern Territory Department of Agriculture and Fisheries is seeking a Beef Cattle Research Officer to help deliver livestock research trials, support daily station operations and contribute to the sustainable development of the NT pastoral industry.
Based at Kidman Springs, in the heart of the Victoria River District, this role offers varied work across cattle handling, rangeland management, research data collection and station maintenance, with free on-site accommodation provided.
The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries supports the Territory’s reputation as a supplier of safe, quality agricultural produce through scientific research, strong biosecurity practices and compliance with animal welfare legislation.
Victoria River Research Station provides facilities for agricultural research and extension in one of the Territory’s major cattle-producing regions.
Working as part of the Research Farm Team, you will:
Assist the Farm Manager with cattle research projects, station maintenance and development work.
Undertake daily livestock and rangeland management activities, including cattle handling and mustering.
Operate and maintain machinery, equipment, fences and water infrastructure.
Collect, record, collate and process research data relating to livestock production and native pastures.
Maintain accurate station records.
Assist with field days, demonstrations and extension activities supporting the NT pastoral industry.
The role may involve travel to remote locations for extended periods, fieldwork in challenging conditions, and early, late or weekend work as required.
You will bring:
An appropriate degree in agriculture, animal science or an equivalent discipline.
Experience in research techniques relevant to extensive pastoral operations.
Practical experience in cattle handling, mustering, fencing and machinery operation.
Experience collecting and processing livestock and native pasture research data, including working within a team and occasionally managing projects.
Strong interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work positively with producers, colleagues and government personnel.
A current driver’s licence and the ability to undertake fieldwork in challenging conditions for extended periods.
Good organisational and time management skills, and the ability to contribute effectively to a team.
Experience in beef cattle research in northern Australia’s tropical pastoral regions, a current NT HR driver’s licence and experience driving a 4WD are desirable.
A full-time, ongoing position with the Northern Territory Government.
A remuneration package of $86,482 to $110,012.
Free on-site accommodation in a two-bedroom demountable.
Six weeks’ recreation leave and three weeks’ personal leave.
An additional three days’ paid leave over the Christmas shutdown.
Annual leave loading of 17.5%.
The opportunity to contribute to research supporting northern Australia’s beef cattle industry.
Apply online via the APPLY NOW button, ensuring your application includes:
A one-page summary about you.
A detailed resume/CV.
Copies of your tertiary qualifications.
Apply online: https://jobs.nt.gov.au/Home/JobDetails?rtfId=358233
Applications close: 6 November 2026.
For further information, contact Zach Weir on 0434 000 291 or Zach.weir@nt.gov.au.
Quote vacancy number: 25618 | RTF: 358233
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