oceanographer

Department of Primary Industries and Regions

Job reference: 697389

Location: WEST BEACH

Job status: Ongoing

Eligibility: Open to Everyone

The Opportunity

We have an opportunity for an Oceanographer to be part of our South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI) Division within the Department of Primary Industries and Regions.

The primary purpose of the role is to support and deliver applied research, field data collection, and advanced modelling to improve understanding of oceanographic processes and their influence on South Australia's marine ecosystems and fisheries. The role is responsible for contributing to the development and application of regional hydrodynamic and biogeochemical models, and the analysis of ocean observing data, to support evidence-based decision-making by government and industry.

The role contributes delivering the agency's priorities including 'sustain the resource' and 'Manage risk and recovery' by informing the sustainable management of South Australia's seafood and marine-based industries, effective management of marine environmental assets, and enhanced resilience of regional communities through science-led innovation and policy advice. The role contributes to delivering SARDI Aquatic Sciences divisional objectives by generating high-quality oceanographic research and data that support marine ecosystem assessments, fisheries and aquaculture management, and environmental impact assessments. This includes leading or supporting strategic research initiatives such as the Southern Australian Integrated Marine Observing System (SAIMOS) and the Southern Australian Regional Ocean Model (SAROM).

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 September 2028.
• 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.
• 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.
• Periods of time will be spent at sea on small boats and large research vessels.
• The incumbent will be required to contribute to whole-of-agency working groups developing PIRSA policy responses to significant and emerging issues as required.

Requirements

Essential:

• PhD in physical, biological, or biogeochemical oceanography, or a related discipline with a strong focus on oceanographic modelling; or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and education/training.
• Demonstrated experience in the application of hydrodynamic and/or biogeochemical models, and in the collection and analysis of oceanographic data.

Desirable:

• Experience with the Regional Ocean Modelling System (ROMS) and/or similar ocean circulation or biogeochemical modelling frameworks.
• Proficiency in scientific programming and data analysis using tools such as MATLAB, Python or R.
• Demonstrated ability to work at sea, including deployment and retrieval of oceanographic equipment.
• Proven track record of scientific publication and effective communication of complex research findings to diverse audiences.

Remuneration

PO3 - $101,285 min - $107,078 max per annum, plus superannuation

Enquiries

Dr Mark Doubell

Research Scientist Sub Program Leader

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, Collaborative Approach and 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: 23/09/2025 11:45 PM