The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) lead the sustainable development of Western Australia’s regions and agriculture, aquaculture, food and fisheries sectors. In everything we do, we take an approach to protect, grow and innovate WA’s economy, community and environment. 

To learn more about our department, our team and the work we do, please visit our website. 

About the opportunity

Are you passionate about supporting world-class applied research that delivers lasting impact for Western Australia's livestock industries?

We are seeking two (2) outstanding leaders to join the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) as Manager Livestock Resilience and Manager Livestock Production within the Livestock Research Branch.

Reporting to the Director Livestock Research, these permanent leadership roles provide the opportunity to shape the future of livestock research in Western Australia. You will support high-performing multidisciplinary teams that generate and apply science to improve the productivity, profitability, resilience and sustainability of livestock production systems across the State.

Working collaboratively with industry, government, universities, funding bodies and national research partners, you will develop and maintain strong strategic partnerships that leverage investment and maximise research impact. You will support research planning, governance, resource management and program delivery, driving excellence in scientific capability, innovation and stakeholder engagement. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to Western Australia's position as a leader in applied livestock systems research and help deliver practical, evidence-based solutions that support a productive, resilient and sustainable livestock sector for future generations.

It is also important to be aware that DPIRD is an emergency management department and so on occasion, all employees may be required to work or travel during, or outside of, normal business hours to assist with incidents and emergencies. 

The positions are currently available for immediate filling, with the potential that this process may also be used to fill other same or similar fixed term or permanent vacancies that arise in DPIRD (within the locations listed in this advert) over the next 12 months. 

Diversity and inclusion

We value diversity and understand diverse workplaces are more effective and innovative so we encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disability, women, youth, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. As our department is an equal opportunity employer, supported by the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (WA), preference may be given to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, people of diverse sexualities and youth.

About the team and benefits

We are genuinely committed to developing and supporting our workforce to be their best by creating a positive work environment, supporting work/life balance and encouraging our employees to learn on the job and build their skills.

Some of the benefits of this job and working at DPIRD include:

• Opportunity to work for a department that is renowned as a world leader in a range of fields, from research and development to biosecurity and sustainability.
• Undertaking interesting and important work that involves collaborating and partnering with industry, universities and government to deliver commercial outcomes and make a real difference to local communities.
• Being part of a social, supportive and inclusive team.
• Modern, easily accessible and centrally located office premises and facilities, with proximity to a range of public transport options.

Assessment criteria and eligibility

We are looking for individuals with:    

• Demonstrated credibility in the livestock research community, with a proven track record of developing business cases, securing funding and delivering significant industry-level research and development outcomes.
• Demonstrated experience leading strategic research projects and managing people, budgets, and resources in a complex agricultural research environment.
• A collaborative leadership style, positive attitude and commitment to fostering strong working relationships and supporting team success.
• Well-developed analytical, strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify opportunities and drive practical solutions.

To be eligible for appointment, we will also require you to submit copies of your qualifications. Applicants must provide a copy of their Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Science, Science, or an approved equivalent qualification. For further information and requirements for this position, please see the attached Job Description Form (JDF). 

How to apply 

If you are interested in this opportunity, make sure you have read through all the attached information, click the ‘Apply’ button and upload the following:  

• A comprehensive CV that highlights your skills, experience, and achievements including details of your referees.  

• A cover letter of no more than two (2) pages demonstrating how your skills, knowledge, experience and attributes relate to this opportunity and the values of DPIRD.

• Copies of any relevant documents to demonstrate you are eligible for appointment.

The successful candidate will also be required to provide a current National Police Certificate (police clearance) before commencing employment. If not currently held, this must be acquired prior to appointment, which will be at your expense. You are also required to have a current and valid Western Australian "C" class (car) drivers’ license or equivalent (if not currently held must be acquired prior to commencement at applicant’s expense).

Please be aware that late applications will not be accepted. It is your responsibility to ensure it has been submitted prior to the closing date and time. If you experience technical difficulties applying online, please contact the RAMS Helpdesk on 1300 733 056.

Further information and support

To find out more about the opportunity, please contact Dr Clinton Revell, Director Livestock Research, on 0417 183 858 during office hours or email Clinton.Revell@dpird.wa.gov.au.

We are planning to conduct interviews for shortlisted candidates on Thursday, 15 October at the DPIRD Head Office in Perth. If required, we may also use other assessment methods to gather evidence in relation to the suitability requirements of the position and supplement the field of applications by conducting a candidate search.

If you have any support or access needs that may require adjustments to allow you to fully participate in this assessment process, or other questions about the recruitment process, please contact our Talent team via recruitment@dpird.wa.gov.au or (08) 6552 1943.

Privacy and your personal information 

DPIRD handles and releases information in accordance with relevant privacy and information access laws including the Freedom of Information Act 1992 (FOI) and the Privacy and Responsible Information Sharing Act 2024  (WA) (PRIS). Further information is available via our Privacy Statement.