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

There is currently one (1) full time position available for immediate filling. 

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Research Scientist to lead the Invertebrate Trawl Team in delivering high-quality stock assessments and maintaining external certification requirements. Engaging with industry members to foster strong collaborative relationships, provide scientific advice, and contribute to the continuous improvement of stock assessment methodologies and certification.

While leading the team you will collect, analyse, and interpret research data, coordinate and supervises research staff and project activities. This includes preparing reports, scientific publications, and evidence-based recommendations; and communicates research findings effectively to colleagues, stakeholders, and industry partners.

About You

We are looking for individuals with:   

• A Bachelor’s degree in an appropriate scientific discipline or an approved equivalent
• Knowledge and understanding of the fishing industry (all sectors) relevant to Western Australia or comparable jurisdictions, including an extensive knowledge of fisheries and aquatic science relative to applied natural resource management.
• Experience in planning, managing and delivering research projects with the ability to lead research teams and coordinate collaborating scientists, develop and control project budgets.
• Proven ability to publish scientific papers in international literature relevant to fisheries research.

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 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 this opportunity, with particular reference to the points outlined in the “About You” section.
• 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 Candidate Information Kit.
• As there are multiple levels being advertised the panel will assess your skills, knowledge and experience to determine which classification level you may be considered suitable for. The assessment will take into consideration any relevant Qualification(s) and previous relevant experience.

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, please contact Jason How, A/Director Fisheries Science and Assessment, on (08) 9203 0247 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.