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, fixed-term position for 2 years available for immediate filling, with the possibility of extension and/or permanency.

The position is based at DPIRD’s Hillarys facility and forms part of the team responsible for supporting the delivery of vessel-based fisheries research across Western Australia.

The role helps plan and deliver vessel-based fisheries surveys in collaboration with scientists; prepares and maintains research vessels, sampling systems and technical equipment; undertakes routine maintenance and fault-finding; conducts or supports sampling and data collection at sea; coordinates survey logistics, stores and equipment; and maintains vessel, safety and technical records.

The position regularly undertakes sea-going and remote field duties, which attract additional allowances above the advertised base salary.

About You

We are seeking a practical, organised and hands-on person with demonstrated experience working aboard seagoing vessels, strong digital literacy and the ability to contribute effectively within a small operational team.

You will have sound mechanical aptitude and be comfortable undertaking vessel and equipment maintenance, fault-finding, field preparation and practical operational problem-solving. You will also be capable of managing competing priorities, coordinating survey logistics, maintaining accurate vessel and technical records, and using computer-based systems for planning, administration, data collection and reporting.

An essential operational requirement of the role is the ability to work safely and effectively aboard vessels for extended periods and in varied sea conditions, including non-susceptibility to seasickness.

An understanding of research survey and sampling design, and the importance of collecting consistent, accurate and defensible scientific data, is important. Applicants may come from either a strong maritime and technical background or a fisheries and marine research background but must demonstrate the capacity to work effectively across both aspects of the role.

• A Diploma or Degree in a relevant discipline, an equivalent qualification, or very extensive relevant experience is required.
• The successful applicant must be able to work for extended periods away from base, either at sea or from shore-based facilities.
• A Master <24m Near Coastal qualification and a Marine Engine Driver Grade 2 qualification are highly desirable and will be particularly well regarded.

For further information and the full requirements of the role, please refer to the 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 outlining how your skills, qualifications and experience relate to this opportunity. Your letter should particularly address your sea-going experience; vessel, machinery or technical experience; survey, sampling or research experience; organisational and administrative capability; and experience using computer-based systems.

It is recommended that you consider all information contained in the advertisement and any other related information. Please note you do not have to address the work-related requirements at this stage.  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 Kelvin Rushworth, Project Manager Research Vessel Fleet, on 0407 122 067 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.