Biosecurity Survey Officer

Location: Melbourne | Northern Metropolitan

Job type: Full time / Ongoing

Organisation: Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action

**Salary**: $58,539 - $75,175

Occupation: Agriculture/Primary Industry

Reference: VG/50959000

This position provides important plant biosecurity services through plant pest and disease surveillance across the South East Region, principally in the Greater Melbourne area. In conjunction with Agriculture Victoria Biosecurity Officer - Plants staff, the position plays an important role in maintaining Victoria's area freedom for various plant pests and diseases.

As a Biosecurity Survey Officer, you will be required to work undertake regular surveillance and monitoring activities for different plant pests and diseases which are exotic to Victoria. This role will primarily focus on activities around Exotic Fruit Flies (EFF). This will include the surveillance, identification and recording of pests and diseases using a structured process.

You may also be required to assist with maintaining industry market access through a variety of related tasks such as plant health certification and auditing.

This position has responsibilities under the Plant Biosecurity Act 2010.

The successful applicant will work effectively as a member of a team within the Plants, Chemicals and Invasives Branch in the Biosecurity and Agriculture Services Division.

**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 Plant Biosecurity Act 2010.
- Under guidance, monitor for specific invasive species, pests or diseases and maintain equipment and records to specified standards.
- Assist with the collection and entry of information using electronic and other forms of technology.
- Assist with maintaining industry market access through a variety of related tasks, such as auditing, accreditation and surveillance as required.
- Provide advice to Agriculture Victoria staff, industry and members of the public in an effective and timely manner that maintains or enhances the reputation and effectiveness of Victorian plant biosecurity operations.
- 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**
- Knowledge of Victorian agriculture and horticulture industries including biosecurity issues affecting these industries.
- Self-Management: experience in planning and prioritising work to ensure outcomes are achieved; resists the temptation to react immediately without taking time to think things through; and uses strengths to contribute constructively.
- Stakeholder engagement: Has collaborative, interpersonal and consultation skills, together with the ability to negotiate outcomes and liaise effectively with a wide range of stakeholders including government, non-government organisations, landholders and community members.
- Proficiency in the use of computer and telecommunication technology, including capturing data in the field on mobile devices.

**This is an ongoing position. The work location for this position is Attwood.**

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, 21**st** 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._