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

We currently have one (1) fixed-term full-time opportunity available for a Project officer to join DPIRD’s Intensive and Irrigated Plant Systems until 30 June 2027, with the possibility of extension and/or permanency.

As the successful candidate, you will deliver operational and strategic communication activities to promote horticultural research outcomes and support effective stakeholder engagement. You will work closely with project teams, external stakeholders, funding organisations and other government departments to ensure horticultural research outcomes and impacts are communicated clearly, effectively and in a timely manner. You will also ensure communication activities meet the expectations and commitments outlined in research agreements, providing targeted information to key stakeholders and highlighting the outcomes and impact of projects.

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 position is currently available for immediate filling and includes the possibility of extension or permanency in the future. 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 alongside and learn from world leading scientists, compliance officers and other specialists.
• 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.
• Opportunity to be a valued team member undertaking a range of interesting and important projects.
• Access to a range of flexible working arrangements, including working from home for 50 percent of your work week and a range of generous leave entitlements.
• 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 experience in project management, including the ability to deliver agreed outcomes within specified timeframes.
• Well-developed interpersonal and negotiation skills, including the ability to build and maintain internal and external relationships.
• Strong organisational skills including the ability to prioritise tasks effectively, manage competing demands and meet deadlines.
• Experience in:
  • Preparing high-quality communications materials,
  • Developing and implementing communication strategies that support organisational priorities, projects and initiatives.
  • Providing communications advice to managers on messaging, stakeholder engagement and reputational issues.

To be eligible for appointment, we will also require you to submit copies of your right to work in Australia as part of your application to demonstrate you meet the position requirements.  

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.

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 Vicki McAllister, Director Policy and Strategic Advice, on 9368 3514 during office hours or send an email to vicki.mcallister@dpird.wa.gov.au.  

We are planning to conduct interviews for shortlisted candidates on 30 November 2026 at 1 Nash Street East Perth or via Teams. 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.