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 Insect and Disease branch until 31 July 2030, with the possibility of extension and/or permanency.

As the successful candidate, you will contribute to the CRC SAAFE chilli thrips project, supporting research activities aimed at addressing challenges associated with chilli thrips management.

Reporting to the Senior Research Scientist, this role will primarily involve planning, coordinating and implementing laboratory and field trials in accordance with the project's research objectives, work plans and agreed milestones. The role will support the delivery of high-quality research outcomes through experimental design, trial establishment, data collection, monitoring and analysis.

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

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.
• Contributing to outcomes for the Hazard Management Agency for animal or plant pest or disease emergencies.
• 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:    

• Experience conducting field and laboratory research in insect pest management and biological control.
• Experience assessing and monitoring insecticide resistance in insect pests.
• Skills in surveying, identifying and rearing natural enemies and beneficial organisms, including predators, parasitoids and entomopathogens.
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, think creatively and develop practical solutions to challenges.

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.

To be eligible for appointment, we will also require you to submit copies of your right to work in Australia as part of your application to demonstrate you meet the position requirements.

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. 

A current and valid Western Australian “C” class (car) drivers’ licence or equivalent is required (if not currently held, must be acquired prior to commencement at applicant's expense).

All Work-Related Requirements will be assessed at some stage during the selection process.

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 Kiran Mahat, Senior Research Scientist on 04 1617 3797 during office hours or send an email to Kiran.Mahat@dpird.wa.gov.au

We are planning to conduct interviews for shortlisted candidates on 30 November 2026 (tentatively). 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.