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.

Are you an experienced compliance professional with a passion for protecting our fisheries and marine resources?

There are currently two (2) permanent full-time positions available for immediate filling.

These positions are located in Geraldton and Carnarvon.

Geraldton is a large coastal living city known for its fishing, beaches, mediterranean climate, and a gateway to the region's natural wonders, including the Abrolhos Islands, Kalbarri Gorges, and the peaceful beaches and favourable surf conditions.

Carnarvon is known for its fishing, water activities, fresh fruit and humpback whales during the annual migration. There are many places to visit and station stays when you’re out and about exploring WA’s very own Coral Coast.

About the opportunity

We are seeking a motivated and capable Senior Fisheries and Marine Officer to lead compliance and enforcement activities relating to fisheries and marine legislation. In this role, you will oversee investigations, surveillance operations, community education initiatives, while mentoring and supporting employees in the delivery of compliance activities.

You will be responsible for planning, coordinating, and conducting land- and sea-based patrols, gathering and managing evidence, and supporting prosecution processes within the region. You will also provide expert advice on the interpretation and application of relevant legislation, policies, and procedures to ensure consistent and effective compliance outcomes.

This is an opportunity to make a real difference by protecting valuable natural resources, leading high-quality compliance outcomes, and supporting a safe and sustainable future for our fisheries and marine environment.

If you are a confident leader with strong investigative skills, sound judgement, and a commitment to public service, we encourage you to apply.

About You

We are looking for individuals who have:  

• Certificate qualifications in compliance and investigations and/or possession of relevant experience.
• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of relevant compliance legislation, compliance governance framework, and operational procedures.
• Ability to interpret and apply legislation.
• Ability to engage with stakeholders using your well-developed written and verbal communication skills.
• Possession or willingness to undertake First Aid Certification.
• Experience in operating and maintaining vessels, 4WD vehicles and associated equipment.

For further information and special requirements for this role please see attached Job Description Form (JDF).

Equity and Diversity

At DPIRD we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce and are an equal opportunity employer. We value and strongly encourage people with disabilities, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, young people, women and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to apply for positions within our agency.

How to Apply

Click the Apply button and attach the following to your application:

• A comprehensive CV of no more than two (2) pages in length that highlights your skills, experience, and achievements including details of two (2) referees.
• A cover letter of no more than two (2) pages in length demonstrating how your skills, knowledge and experience relate to the following Work Related Requirements listed in the JDF:
  
  
  • Role Specific: 1, 2
  • Core Capabilities: 3, 5 ,7

It is recommended that you consider all information contained in the advertisement and any other related information. All Work-Related Requirements will be assessed at some stage during the selection process.

Need further information?

For a confidential conversation about the role in Carnarvon, please contact Jake Lewis , Supervising Fisheries and Marine Officer, on 0438 246 895 during office hours.

For a confidential conversation about the role in Geraldton, please contact Jack Dawson, Supervising Fisheries and Marine Officer, on 0417943422 during office hours.

If you experience technical difficulties applying online, please contact the RAMS Helpdesk on 1300 733 056 in first instance. For further information about the recruitment process please contact our Employment team on (08) 6552 1943.

Employment Conditions and Additional Information

DPIRD is an Emergency Management Agency and all employees may be required to work or travel during, or outside of, normal business hours to assist with incidents and emergencies.

Am I eligible to apply?

To be eligible for a permanent appointment to the Western Australian public sector you must be an Australian citizen or have permanent residency status in Australia. To be eligible for a fixed term or a casual appointment you must have documentary evidence of your entitlement to live and work in Australia for the period as part of your application.

You will 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 at applicant’s expense. 

This process may be used to fill other same/similar fixed term, permanent, vacancies that arise in DPIRD at locations listed in this advert. In addition to this, should the successful applicant decline or vacate the advertised position, the panel may select another suitable applicant from this selection process. Both of these options remain valid for a period of twelve (12) months from the approval of the initial recruitment decision.

The recruitment process may include online written assessments, psychometric, cognitive or other testing, job-related tasks, video or live stream interviews, documentation and reference checks or other assessment methodologies as required. We reserve the right to supplement the field of applicants via an executive search if required.

Please ensure you have plenty of time to submit your application to allow for unanticipated problems, as late and proforma applications will not be accepted. (Please note: Online lodgement is system generated. Any submissions on or after 4:00pm will not be accepted)

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.