biosecurity research support officer

Department of Primary Industries and Regions

Job reference: 697926

Location: URRBRAE

Job status: Short Term Contract

Eligibility: Open to Everyone

The Opportunity

We have an opportunity for a Biosecurity Research Support Officer to be part of our Biosecurity Division within the Department of Primary Industries and Regions.

The Invasive Species Unit is focused primarily on the management of weeds and vertebrate pests declared under the Landscape South Australia Act 2019 and on the management of aquatic pests under the Fisheries Management Act 2007. The Invasive Species Unit works closely and effectively with regional landscape boards, the Department for Environment and Water (DEW), and equivalent interstate agencies to achieve impactful, coordinated, strategic responses to new incursions and management of existing priority pest species.

The Research Support Officer is responsible for providing professional support to groups working on pest animal programs and initiatives, which ensure the ongoing effective management of invasive species under the Landscape South Australia Act 2019. This position supports the provision of technical advice, research, analysis and services associated with projects on vertebrate pest animal problems affecting primary industries and natural ecosystems.

The role contributes to delivering the agency's priorities including stimulate growth and value, sustain the resource, and manage risk and recovery.

The position supports delivery of clear, well researched and expert analyses, technical advice, scientific papers, briefings and reports to support current NRM programs. The role sits within the Pest Animal Team of the Invasive Species Unit, which tackles landscape-scale pest animal challenges to improve farm productivity, enhance business confidence, and support the wellbeing of producers and their communities. The role is responsible for supporting the continued development and implementation of field and laboratory trials of new tools and strategies to control pest animals and supports effective data and records management services, ensuring accurate reporting.

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, regional stakeholders and across all levels of government to advance the prosperity and sustainability of South Australia's primary industries and regional communities.

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.

Special Conditions

• Successful applicant will be required to satisfactorily complete a National Police Check (NPC) prior to being made an offer of employment.
• Australian residency or current works permit is required (responsibility of applicant to provide evidence of a current work permit).
• Opportunity up to 12 months
• Full time opportunity, 37.5 hours per week

Requirements

• Possession of a current driver's licence 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.
• Appointment as an Authorised Officer responsible for implementing the Landscape South Australia Act 2019.
• 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.

Qualifications

• An appropriate Degree in Science, Natural Resource Management, Mathematics, or equivalent.
• Previous experience in research, project management and research data analysis.

Remuneration

PO2 - $88,255 min - $97,667 max per annum, plus superannuation

Enquiries

Brad Page

Principal Biosecurity Officer

Phone:

Email:

Website:

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, Analytical Thinking and Written Communication 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: 25/09/2025 11:45 PM