Biosecurity Officer

As a Biosecurity Officer you will support the Victorian community with preparing for and managing the impacts of biosecurity threats. You will be energetic, thoughtful and have enthusiasm for working within a diverse regional team to deliver high quality services to the Victorian community.
Biosecurity Officers support community and industry with invasive plant and animal management, plant biosecurity, pest and disease surveillance to enable market access, monitoring of chemical use in the agriculture sector, and preparing for and responding to biosecurity and agricultural relief emergencies.
In addition, the Biosecurity Officer has a key role in supporting community with delivery of projects funded under the Agriculture Victoria Partnership Against Pests Program. This will include working with local and regional community groups to provide technical advise in the development of invasive pest management projects, and attending community meetings, field days and workshops.
The position will have key responsibilities under State legislation relating to biosecurity practice and agricultural chemical use in Victoria to support priority operational delivery. As this is a regulatory position, you will be provided with training to obtain a Certificate IV in Government Investigations and will be required to conduct investigations and may be requested to appear in court.
You will work effectively as a member of a team, enjoy flexible working arrangements and establishing strong working relationships with internal staff and external stakeholders including private landowners, community and industry groups and local government agencies.
This position is a designated DEECA Authorised Officer and has responsibilities under the legislation relevant to the role.
Accountabilities
- Following training and study, achieve appointment as an Authorised Officer pursuant to the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994, Plant Biosecurity Act 2010, Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control of Use) Act 1992 and the Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Act 1981.
- Under guidance, monitor for specific invasive species, pests or diseases and maintain equipment and records to specified standards and undertake compliance activities under the provisions of the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994, Plant Biosecurity Act 2010 (Limited Powers), the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control of Use) Act 1992 and the Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Act 1981.
- Engage with landholders and communities to provide best practice control information for the management of established invasive plants and animals and proactively encourage voluntary participation in control programs.
- Respond to biosecurity incidents and other agricultural emergencies and recovery operations as required.
- Provide advice to members of the public, industry and other external and internal stakeholders in an effective and timely manner that maintains or enhances the reputation and effectiveness of Biosecurity and Agriculture Services.
- To practice cultural safety by creating environments, relationships and systems free from racism and discrimination so that people can feel safe, valued and able to participate.

Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications
- Current Drivers Licence for a motor vehicle
- Hold a current Applied First Aid Certificate (Level 2 to be completed during probation period)

This is a fixed term position available for a period of 2 years. The work location for this position is Ellinbank with hybrid work arrangements available.
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.
Applications close at midnight on Monday, 21st October 2024.
**Other relevant information**:
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.