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. 

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. 

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. 

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) full-time fixed term opportunity available until 30 June 2027 with a possibility of extension and/or permanency.

As the successful candidate, you will support the delivery of key initiatives and implementation of the Ord River Irrigation Area Strategy 2024-34 (ORIA Strategy). You will also coordinate and support committees and working groups, including preparation of meeting papers and minutes, monitoring actions and supporting the progression of agreed actions.

You will conduct research and analysis to inform recommendations, monitor project progress, support evaluations, and assist with risk management.

The role requires an ability to understand the broader strategic context, make connections between issues and priorities, and communicate complex information clearly and concisely. You will work collaboratively with colleagues, other government agencies, industry and regional stakeholders to support delivery of projects and initiatives across the Ord.

This role also requires you to undertake field-based environmental monitoring and water sampling as part of a two-person team, supporting compliance with the State’s environmental obligations and work health and safety requirements.

Some fieldwork is essential in this role. Applicants will need to have an appropriate level of mobility to safely undertake water sampling activities in wet and marshy terrain.

Key responsibilities include:

• Coordinating committees and working groups, including preparing agendas, recording clear and accurate minutes, monitoring actions and supporting follow-up.
• Preparing high-quality briefings, reports, correspondence, presentations and other written material for a range of audiences.
• Coordinating and progressing discrete projects and actions arising from the ORIA Strategy and broader Ord development priorities.
• Undertaking research and analysis, synthesising information from multiple sources and contributing to recommendations and advice.
• Monitoring project activities, milestones, risks and emerging issues and supporting reporting and evaluation activities.
• Engaging and working collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders.
• Supporting field-based environmental monitoring and other activities as required.

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. 

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:

• Undertaking interesting and important work that involves collaborating and partnering with industry, universities, government 
• Opportunity to be a valued team member undertaking a range of interesting and important projects.
• Being part of a fun, supportive and inclusive team.

Assessment criteria and eligibility

We are looking for individuals with:    

• Well- developed written communication skills, including the ability to prepare clear, concise and accurate minutes, briefings, reports, correspondence and other written material, and to distil complex discussions and information into key messages, decisions and actions.     
  
  
• Sound judgement and analytical skills, with the ability to understand the broader strategic context, identify connections between issues, interpret and synthesise information from a range of sources, and contribute to practical advice, recommendations and solutions.
  
  
• Well-developed planning, organisation and project coordination skills, including the ability to manage competing priorities, monitor actions and deadlines, work with a degree of independence and progress multiple pieces of work through to completion.
  
  
• Strong interpersonal and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to build productive working relationships, communicate effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders and contribute positively within a collaborative team environment.

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 Rana Murad Harris, Project Manager on 0408 640 191 during office hours or send an email to rana.muradharris@dpird.wa.gov.au. 

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.