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 Technical Officer to join DPIRD’s crop innovation branch until 31 August 2027 with the possibility of extension and/or permanency.

As the successful candidate in this role, you will work independently and also under the guidance of senior officers where necessary to carry out routine research activities, assist with experiments, and accurately collect and record research data. The position will also involve conducting trials in acid soils in regional locations across WA, with all work undertaken in accordance with established procedures, safety requirements and approved techniques.

Reporting to the Research Scientist, you will gain hands-on experience across a range of research environments while contributing to practical and innovative agricultural outcomes.

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

In this role you will have the opportunity to work with senior technical officers, research scientists of different expertise, and engage with research collaborators, breeders and industry stake holders. You will have the opportunity to further enhance your technical experience in conducting field and glass house trials.

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.
• Opportunity to work alongside and learn from world leading scientists, compliance officers and other specialists.
• Opportunity to be a valued team member undertaking a range of interesting and important projects.
• Being part of a motivated, 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 specifically looking for individuals with:    

• Demonstrated experience in field and glasshouse work.
• Substantial technical experience on chickpea acid soil research/field trials.
• Demonstrated experience in hydroponics screening.
• Knowledge and experience in chickpeas and other legumes.
• Ability to drive to field trials in regional sites and other work locations.
• Demonstrated experience in working well within a team and independently.
• A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline would be highly desirable.

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. 

Also, a current and valid Western Australian "C" or “C-A” class (car) drivers’ license or equivalent is required (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 Sakura T Mudiyanselage, Research Scientist, on 0422 598 240 during office hours or send an email to sakura.thennakoonmudiyanselage@dpird.wa.gov.au.

We are planning to conduct interviews for shortlisted candidates in October 2026 at a location within the Perth Metropolitan Area. 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.