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

The Field Research Operations (Broadacre) branch delivers over 150 field trials annually for DPIRD and external clients from Esperance (south) to Geraldton (North).

We are seeking an experienced Senior Technical Officer to manage field research operations at the Geraldton (Woorree) Research Facility on a fixed-term basis until July 2029, with the possibility of extension or permanency.

You will oversee a team of technical staff in the daily operation and management of the research facility and equipment to achieve clients research outcomes.

As a requirement of this role, some travel will be required throughout the WA agricultural region. On-site accommodation under the GROH program may be available to the successful applicant (conditions apply).

We are looking for individuals with:

• A proactive attitude to operate in the challenging operational research environment providing high level technical support to field research projects.
• Highly developed workplace communication skills including written, verbal and interpersonal; negotiation and facilitation skills, and substantial experience managing agriculture research operations.
• Knowledge and expertise in the use of agriculture practices.
• Experience operating a range of farm machinery and equipment
• Demonstrated knowledge of asset management, WHS, procurement and recruitment processes.
• Proven ability to work independently, and collaboratively across different areas.
• Demonstrated experience leading a team.
• The capacity to problem solve issues as they arise on the research facility and external trial (farmer/grower) sites.
• A current ChemCert certification, High Risk Work Licence (forklift) and truck license (HR or MC).
• A good level of physical fitness, willing and able to undertake year-round manual work.

As special requirements of this position, you are also required to have:

• Diploma in a relevant discipline with relevant practical experience or substantial relevant experience.
• A current and valid Western Australian "C" class (car) drivers’ license or equivalent is required (if not currently held must be acquired prior to commencement at applicant’s expense).

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 that highlights your skills, experience, and achievements including the details of two (2) referees, and
• A cover letter of no more than two (2) pages in length, demonstrating how your skills, knowledge and experience relate to the following Essential Work Related Requirements.

• Role specific 1: Extensive knowledge and expertise in the use of agricultural practices, research techniques and operations.

• Core Capabilities:
  • Core Capability 2- Build effective relationships: Well-developed communication, interpersonal and negotiation skills; and the ability to build and maintain relationships with a range of stakeholders, clients and suppliers.
  • Core Capability 5 – Deliver in a changing environment: Well-developed planning and organisational skills, including the ability to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines.
  • Core Capability 6 - Lead and empower others: Demonstrated leadership and people management skills, with the ability to motivate, develop and utilise the diverse talents of people.

• Your cover letter should also include examples from your previous experience and achievements that demonstrate how your personal values align with the departments. For an overview of the department’s values, view the attached DPIRD Applicant Information Kit.

It is recommended that you consider all information contained in the advertisement and any other related information. All work-related requirements will be assessed during the selection process.

Need further information?

For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact Gavin Sarre, Field Research Operations Manager on 046 7788 372 (during business hours) or email via gavin.sarre@dpird.wa.gov.au.

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 may arise in DPIRD at other regional locations across the state. 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 options remain valid for a period of twelve (12) months from the approval of the initial recruitment decision.

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.