Research Scientist

Salary: Specified Calling Level 1, $83,456 - $109,860 pa, Public Sector CSA Agreement 2024

Location: Jandakot

Closing Date: 2026-06-19 4:00 PM (YYYY-MM-DD)

Pillar/directorate

Primary Industries Development

Branch

Crop Protection

Tenure

Fixed Term - Part Time

Position Number

70220214

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 part-time (0.8FTE) position, until the 28 February 2028, with the possibility of extension and/or permanency available for immediate filling.

Support innovative scientific research activities that contribute to the growth and sustainability of the agri-food industry. Working under the guidance of senior staff, you will assist with research projects, investigational work and scientific extension activities that support export growth and help protect our valuable natural resources. Your work will contribute to outcomes that make a real impact at the enterprise and industry level.

We are looking for individuals with:

Bachelor degree in Agricultural Science, Science or an approved equivalent.
Experience with plant virology research including ability to design and conduct laboratory and/or field experiments utilising virus transmission and molecular and serological virus detection techniques
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders.
The ability to contribute to projects and identify opportunities to improve outcomes and processes.
Well-developed analytical and problem-solving skills with a practical, solutions-focused approach.
Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
A collaborative mindset with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

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 addressing the work-related requirements of the role as per the attached Job Description Form, demonstrating your suitability for the position.

Please note: Applicants will be assessed based on the information provided in their written application only. Interviews will not be conducted as part of this recruitment process.

Your cover letter should also include examples from your previous experience and achievements that demonstrate how your personal values align with the departments. For an overview of the department’s values, view the attached DPIRD Applicant Information Kit.

It is recommended that you consider all information contained in the advertisement and any other related information. The Work-Related Requirements will be assessed based on the information provided in their written application only.

Need further information?

For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact Ben Cogdon , Senior Research Scientist, on (08) 9368 34*** during office hours.

If you experience technical difficulties applying online, please contact the RAMS Helpdesk on 1300 733 *** in first instance. For further information about the recruitment process please contact our Employment team on (08) 6552 1***.

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)

dpird.wa.gov.au