Job opportunity

Fixed term opportunity until 30 June 2032

Strengthening resource understanding through seismic innovation

Would you like to be a part of the new Department of Mines, Petroleum and Exploration?

As a member of the department, you will help support the development of Western Australia’s resources sector, which oversees resource development and improved environmental outcomes for mining, petroleum and exploration for the benefit of WA and future generations.

Our people will be provided with a range of benefits, including flexible work arrangements, working at home, in the field or in the office, training and development opportunities, and ongoing support to enable you to achieve outcomes for our community.  We value diversity and appreciate every individual’s perspective, bringing together a diverse and inclusive workforce to drive innovation and success.

The role

As Chief Seismologist – WA Array, you will provide scientific and strategic leadership in the design, delivery and interpretation of major natural-source seismology projects across Western Australia, with a primary focus on the WA Array initiative. You will play a key role in advancing the understanding of the structure and evolution of the WA crust and lithosphere through the integration of seismic, geophysical and geological datasets into high-quality, publication-standard outputs including reports, maps and 3D models.

You will undertake an instrumental role in leading the processing and interpretation of complex seismological datasets using industry-standard tools, ensuring the delivery of robust and high-impact geophysical models that contribute to the Geological Survey’s broader data products and strategic objectives.

In addition to your technical leadership, you will provide expert geophysical advice to internal and external stakeholders, contribute to peer review processes, and represent the organisation in collaborative research partnerships with academic institutions and industry.

This position requires a forward-thinking geoscientist who can combine deep technical expertise with strong collaborative and leadership skills to deliver innovative outcomes that enhance the understanding of Western Australia’s subsurface and support informed resource management decisions.

Please refer to the Job Description Form (JDF) attached for further information regarding the position, including any specific requirements, capabilities and pre-employment checks which will be assessed as part of the selection process.

While this selection process will initially be used to fill the above vacancy, it may also be used to fill other similar vacancies (permanent, fixed-term, full-time or part-time) within the department for the next 12 months, from the date that the recruitment breach period has been finalised.

Eligibility

To be eligible for fixed term employment you must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, have a visa to live and work indefinitely in Australia or have a valid visa to live and work in Australia for the duration of the fixed term employment at the time of application.

Should a qualification be required for this position, applicants must provide their certification and/or academic transcripts to verify relevance to the job requirements. Qualifications obtained outside of Australia must be provided with an assessment from the Overseas Qualifications Unit to ensure they meet Australian Standards (this is a free service).

To work for DMPE, you must consent to a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check and obtain a clearance before you start. If deemed suitable, DMPE will coordinate and pay for your NCCHC as part of your pre-employment checks.

More information about eligibility requirements can be found on the Job Description Form.

Further information

Please contact Ruth Murdie, Manager Earth Imaging and Observation on (08) 9222 3738  or via Ruth.MURDIE@dmpe.wa.gov.au or visit our website. You can also keep up to date on DMPE achievements and activities by following us on LinkedIn.

How to apply

We ask for you to provide:

A detailed resume outlining your key achievements, work history, education and professional development and covering letter of no more than two (2) pages, addressing the following role specific requirements:

• National or international recognition for their contribution to Geoscience and the understanding of the geoscience of Western Australia would be highly regarded.
• Proven experience in the acquisition, processing and interpretation of natural-source seismological data and a demonstrated ability to compile quality comprehensive reports, maps and models to publication standard.
• Proven experience in processing and interpreting seismological data for crustal and lithospheric imaging, local seismicity and seismic hazard monitoring.

Applicants must hold a Bachelor of Science (Geophysics) or an approved equivalent qualification.

Shortlisted applicants will have their skills and experience in relation to the remaining role specific requirements and leadership behaviours assessed in further stages of the recruitment process. The complete list of role specific requirements and expected leadership behaviours can be found in the attached Job Description Form.

In the attached Applicant Information Pack, we offer further information on how to apply and the range of incentives offered to employees who work with DMPE. If you have any questions about employment conditions or the application process, or require any technical support when submitting your application online, please contact Shae Taaffe, Recruitment Officer on (08) 6251 1917 or email recruitment@dmpe.wa.gov.au.

To submit your application, click on the “Apply for Job” button at the bottom of this page. You will be asked to complete several questions, before attaching your resume and covering letter.

Supporting Diversity and Inclusion

The department is committed to building and maintaining an inclusive and supportive workplace.  That’s why championing diversity and inclusion is so important to us; when we embrace different perspectives and give everyone the chance to be the best they can be, we can think in new, creative ways that grow and enhance our department.  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.

We are proud to be recognised as an Inclusive Employer for 2023-2024 by Diversity Council Australia. Learn more about our commitment to diversity and inclusion here.                         

We use the National Relay Service (NRS) to ensure we are accessible to people who are deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment. NRS can help you connect with us on:

• TTY/voice calls – 133 677
• Speak & Listen – 1300 555 727
• SMS relay – 0423 677 767

If you have any access needs that may require adjustment to allow you to fully participate in the application and interview process, including alternate methods of communication, or to request a document in an alternative format please contact us at recruitment@dmpe.wa.gov.au

CLOSING DATE: 4.00PM on Wednesday, 13 May 2026 (WST)

Please ensure you allow yourself sufficient time to lodge your application online as late applications will not be accepted. It is your responsibility to ensure your application is submitted on time.

We look forward to receiving your application and considering you for this exciting opportunity to join our team.