The Opportunity
We have an exciting opportunity for a Biosecurity Research Officer, Pest Animals to be part of our Biosecurity Division within PIRSA. The role reports to Principal Biosecurity Officer, Pest Animals.

The Biosecurity Research Officer, Pest Animals is responsible for providing research, analysis and services associated with key vertebrate pest problems affecting primary industries and natural ecosystems, including rabbits, deer, foxes and rodents.  The role is also responsible for the development and application of appropriate laboratory testing methods to support the identification and management of biological controls against pest animal threats in SA.  The incumbent manages biological materials received for analysis and ensures the safe and efficient operation of the laboratory. Effective data and records management services, ensuring accurate reporting and effective dissemination of information, technical data, technical advice and reports inform and support current NRM programs.

The position undertakes strategic liaison across a broad range of stakeholders, including NRM authorities, State and local governments, land managers, community groups and the public to provide a range of expert technical, policy and planning advice to contribute to the address of complex pest animal related queries and issues.  It is essential that the incumbent has a sound understanding of the Natural Resource Management Act 2004 and its operation, as well as being familiar with a number of other relevant state and national legislative framework.

Biosecurity SA has overall responsibility for biosecurity including pest and disease policy, planning, surveillance, preparedness, incursion response and ongoing management. The Invasive Species unit, which includes vertebrate pests, weeds and aquatic pests, is parallel with other Biosecurity SA units for animal health and plant health. Other cross-sector units in Biosecurity SA cover strategy and policy, compliance, emergency management, compliance and business performance.

The Invasive Species unit is focused primarily on the management of weeds and vertebrate pests declared under the Natural Resources Management Act 2004 (NRM Act) and on the management of aquatic pests under the Fisheries Management Act 2007. The Invasive Species unit works closely with the eight NRM Boards, through their partnership with the Department for Environment and Water (DEW), and equivalent interstate agencies to achieve coordinated, strategic responses to new incursions and management of existing priority pest species. The Invasive Species unit provides policy and technical advice and support to regulatory activities, collaborates in research on pest control techniques, fosters surveillance and early intervention systems and supports pest awareness and education activities. These all contribute to achieving the State NRM Plan, delivery of premium food, wine and fibre production, and protection of natural environments and public safety.

About Us
Primary Industries and Regions SA, as a key economic development agency of the South Australian Government, works across a diverse range of industry sectors including agriculture, livestock, forestry, fishing and aquaculture and regional development. We involve and engage with others to ensure we make good decisions, have clear policies, plan and implement effective programs, drive relevant projects, promote efficient resource use and broker shared responsibility. In this way we enable the State’s primary industry sectors and regions to remain competitive, productive and sustainable.

Benefits
At PIRSA, we offer our employees challenging and rewarding work with opportunities for career progression, learning and development and flexibility.

Our Commitment to Diversity
PIRSA is committed to building a flexible, diverse and inclusive culture, planning for and promoting diversity. We welcome and encourage applications from diverse community groups and ages including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, LGBTIQ, people with disabilities, women and other diversity groups. PIRSA recognises the benefits that such an approach brings for our staff and customers in delivering the future of SA.

Flexibility Statement
The South Australian public sector promotes diversity and flexible ways of working including part-time. Applicants are encouraged to discuss the flexible working arrangements for this role.

Essential Qualifications

• An appropriate Degree in Science, Natural Resource Management or equivalent is essential.

Special Conditions

• A postgraduate qualification in Science, Natural Resource Management is desirable.
• Interstate travel and overnight absences may be required.
• Remote intrastate travel, including extended overnight absences will be required.
• Possession of a current driver’s licence and a willingness to drive.
• Out of hours work may be required.
• Complete the course on the Natural Resources Management Act 2004 and associated compliance to Authorised Officer level.

Remuneration
PO2 $83,152 - $92,020

Enquiries
Brad Page 
Phone: 08 8429 0803
Email: Bradley.Page@sa.gov.au
Website: www.pir.sa.gov.au

Application Instructions
All applications must be submitted online.

If you are interested in this opportunity, please submit a Covering Letter (no more than 3 pages) outlining your skills and experience in relation to the Professional and Technical Knowledge, Written Communication and Planning and Organising (Work Management) capabilities of the role description and a current CV (no more than 5 pages). Applicants must include the contact information of at least 2 referees with 1 being your immediate supervisor/manager and a completed “Pre-Employment Declaration in the SA Public Sector” form.

Applications close: 01/01/2020 11:45 PM 

Attachments:
- Application Guideline.doc
- Pre-Employment Declaration.pdf
- Role Description.docx