CLOSING DATE: Friday, 29 May 2020 at 11:45PM WST
Who we are
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s (DPIRD) purpose is to create enduring prosperity for all Western Australians. Our department ensures that primary industries and regions are key contributors to the Government’s agenda for economic growth and diversification, job creation, strong communities and better places.
We work collaboratively across government, industry and community to advance three goals: Protect, Grow, Innovate.
For more information about the Department, please visit our website.
Position Profile
We currently have one (1) permanent full time vacancy available for immediate filling.
This process may be used to fill other similar vacancies throughout the department. 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 six (6) months from approval of the initial recruitment decision.
We are looking for a Research Scientist to contribute to the development of integrated disease management programs for plant pathogens of horticultural crops grown in the Kimberley region of WA, with a focus on export led growth and/or protection of the resource base. The successful applicant would offer support to the development of new research ideas and the implementation of research grants. They will interact and communicate (written and verbally) with industry bodies and representatives, and be involved in extension related activities. This is an exciting opportunity for someone with plant pathology and disease identification and assessment experience. The role will also require a combination of applied and molecular diagnostic skills, and the ability to work independently as part of a broader horticulture team in field based scenarios, located in a regional area.
Intra and interstate travel may be required.
Please refer to the Job Description Form attached for full position details.
Eligibility / Other Conditions
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 of the contract and this is required as part of your application.
Bachelor degree in Agricultural Science, Science or an approved equivalent
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).
This position is located in Kununurra.
Please note, any successful candidate, including current employees of the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, will be offered employment subject to the award and agreement conditions that apply to the advertised role as outlined in the attached JDF. By accepting an offer of appointment, the successful applicant accepts the conditions and entitlements under the specified award and agreement.
Further Job Related Information
To discuss this role or for specific enquiries please contact Helen Spafford, Senior Research Scientist via 0455 320 034 (during business hours).
How to Apply
Applicants are required to submit:
- A current comprehensive CV, including details of two (2) referees; and
- A covering letter/statement that demonstrates how your skills, knowledge and experience relate to the following Work Related Requirements, as detailed on the Job Description Form and in the context of the job specific details in this advertisement in no more than four (4) pages:
- Work Related Requirement 1 – Knowledge of agri-food industry sustainable production systems and basic principles of scientific research;
- Work Related Requirement 2 – Build effective relationships: Well-developed written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to relate to people from a wide and varied range of backgrounds, both internal and external to the organisation; and
- Work Related Requirement 3 – Challenge for innovation: Ability to contribute to the development of plans and projects and able to use initiative to deliver improvements to outputs/outcomes.
Applications will be assessed against these work related requirements of the position. The values and business needs of our Department may also be considered. It is therefore recommended that you consider all information contained in the advertisement and any other related information before applying for the vacancy.
Please note that, should you be shortlisted, your ability to meet the other work related requirements will be assessed through future stages of the recruitment process.
Applicants are required to apply on line by clicking on the “Apply for Job” button at the top/bottom of the screen. Applicants must have a current, valid email address in order to apply online and this email address will be used for communication with applicants. Further information is available in the attached Applicant Information Kit.
Equity and Diversity
DPIRD is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce and is 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.
The Department also promotes staff health and wellbeing, through the provision of flexible work provisions and a wellbeing and support program.
If you are having trouble downloading the attachments or lodging your application online, please contact (08) 6552 1943 (during business hours) and quote the Reference number.
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 11:45pm will not be accepted)
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development has a four day breach claim period. For more information, please see the Public Sector Commission Website