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.
About the opportunity
There is currently one (1) fixed term, full time position with the possibility of extension and/or permanency available for immediate filling.
Your role will provide seed analysis expertise as part of the Seed Testing Laboratory within the DPIRD Diagnostic and Laboratory Services branch of our Department. You will deliver high quality seed testing and analysis, and general surveillance to support market access and biosecurity.
Skills in botanical identification, previous experience with agricultural seed industries, knowledge of agricultural systems and understanding of laboratory quality systems will be highly advantageous.
Working within a laboratory team environment you will follow processes accredited by the International Seed Testing Association. These include visually assessing physical seed samples for quality, or to determine suitability to meet market requirements.
You would be required to liaise with various internal stakeholders, crop industry bodies and industry participants at an operational level to communicate outcomes from testing and facilitate export.
Contributing to the implementation of established quality systems and participating in continuous improvement within the laboratory is a critical aspect of the role.
Strong computer skills and knowledge of Oracle based databases is advantageous.
Key tasks include
- Process samples and deliver informative and accurate results to clients according to agreed timeframes
- Process customer enquiries in a polite and respectful manner
- Participate in technical training programs
- Develop and maintain sound theoretical and practical knowledge in all aspects of seed testing
- Test samples in accordance with established laboratory methods for purity, germination planting / assessment, seed identification and thousand seed weight
- Develop skills in working with a sample management database and DPIRD operational systems to maintain accurate sample and client information
- Apply the requirements of ISTA and Laboratory Accreditation systems to all aspects of seed testing and laboratory practice
- Participate in proficiency testing and continuous improvement
We are looking for process driven, self-motivated individuals with:
- High attention to detail and who strive for excellence.
- Knowledge of laboratory techniques, scientific methods and analytical procedures.
- Some experience providing technical support to laboratory, research or certification programs relating to seed testing, seed certification and/or plant diseases and/or pests.
- Demonstrated ability to maintain accurate laboratory records and documentation.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work cooperatively within a team and respond to routine enquiries.
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.
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 Michael Davies, Supervisor DDLS Seed Testing and Certification, on 0419 965 132 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)
