Research Scientist
Specified Calling Level 2 | 12 month Fixed Term contract until December 2022
- Conduct research and analysis to improve plant biosecurity knowledge and outcomes
- Contribute to the development of plant biosecurity preparedness activities
- Actively participate in plant biosecurity emergency responses
What will your typical day look like?
We currently have one (1) full time 12-month fixed term contract position available. Part-time arrangements may be considered.
We are looking for an enthusiastic, forward thinking Research Scientist interested in contributing to improving biosecurity knowledge and outcomes.
You will assist with triage of insect, animal, weed and plant disease reports received via the DPIRD pest reporting applications. The role includes liaising with experts to identify pest/diseases, providing pest reporters with feedback and advice, and providing technical support for targeted biosecurity community engagement activities.
Key responsibilities include:
- Promotes client engagement and biosecurity reporting through close contact with farmers, department officers, private consultants, the wider community, and other end users.
- Under general direction, provide scientific advice and analysis in support of policy development for plant biosecurity in Western Australia.
- Maintains an up-to-date knowledge and awareness of relevant research, development findings, issues and trends relevant to area of expertise.
For further key responsibilities please see attached JDF.
Enough about us, let’s talk about you.
In this role, you will apply your plant biosecurity knowledge and practical skills as required to participate in monitoring and reporting on plant pests and diseases to inform policy, technological and organisational changes affecting the biosecurity status of Western Australia’s agricultural industries. You will also provide input to frontline activities in response to exotic plant pest incursions, emerging plant pests, product integrity and related areas as required.
Experience in practical and applied entomology or plant pathology, and insect identification together with relationship management would be highly desirable.
For all essential criteria, please see the attached JDF.
Why DPIRD?
At DPIRD we are 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.
Get ready to apply. It’s simple.
Click the Apply if this is something that excites you! All we need is:
- A resume of no more than three (3) pages including details of two (2) referees
- A cover letter of no more than three (3) pages in length demonstrating how your skills, knowledge and experience relate to the following Essential Work Related Requirements:
- Work Related Requirement 1 – Role specific: Demonstrated experience in scientific research and knowledge of agri-food industry sustainable production systems.
- Work Related Requirement 2 – Build effective relationships: Well-developed communication skills, both verbal and written, including the ability to consult, advise and convey information to stakeholders in order to achieve strategic outcomes.
- Work Related Requirement 5 – Deliver in a changing environment: Deliver in a changing environment: Well-developed project, time management and organisational skills including the ability to effectively contribute to the management of change
It is recommended that you consider all information contained in the advertisement and any other related information. Please note that all of the Work-Related Requirements will be assessed at some stage during the selection process.
Need further information?
We’d love to hear from you!
To have a confidential discussion, Nichole Hammond, Technical Area Manager, on 9368 3967 (during business hours).
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 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.
Special Requirements for this position:
- Applicants are advised of the recently announced mandatory vaccination policy for a majority of occupations and workforces in WA. This will be introduced in a phased approach and more information can be found Mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy for WA workforces (www.wa.gov.au). Should this policy apply to an offer of employment resulting from this recruitment process, prospective appointees will be advised accordingly.
- Bachelor degree in an appropriate scientific discipline or an approved equivalent.
- A current and valid Western Australian "C" class (car) drivers’ license or equivalent is required (if not currently held must be acquired prior to commencement at applicant’s expense).
- An acceptable National Police Certificate (police clearance) is required. If not currently held, must be acquired prior to commencement at applicant’s expense.
- Occasional travel to and from metropolitan and regional offices may be required.
- The contract of employment specifies terms and conditions relating to this position.
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 twelve (12) months from 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. Applicants will be advised of this where necessary.
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)
CLOSING DATE: Wednesday, 05 January 2022 at 4:00 PM WST