Position Details APS 5 - $81,690 - $89,615 per annum plus superannuation Biosecurity Plant and Science Services Division Darwin, NT Who We Are The Biosecurity Plant and Science Services Division (BPSSD) safeguards Australia's plant health status to achieve, maintain and expand overseas markets, while protecting the economy and environment. The division includes four branches, which together focus on providing scientific analysis and technical advice, facilitating the safe importation of plants and plant products, improving systems, market access, capacity building and stakeholder engagement.
The Job Under the general direction of the Senior Entomologist, the Entomologist will contribute to scientific services and operational and policy advice. The duties of the roles may include, but are not limited to:
Undertaking diagnostics of insects and other invertebrates to a high level and in accordance with departmental policy, procedures and the laboratory quality management system. Preparing specimens for diagnostics and long-term preservation in departmental reference collections. Undertaking high quality diagnostic imaging of invertebrate specimens. Providing risk-based biosecurity management advice to Biosecurity Officers and other stakeholders. Maintaining paper-based and electronic data and records in line with policy, data and quality standards. Maintaining and developing diagnostic and other technical capability through participation in training, competency assessments and laboratory proficiency testing in line with quality system requirements. Contributing to the provision of technical advice and reporting for OSS clients that cover a range of policy, auditing, inspection, risk management and treatment activities. Participating in pest inspections, surveillance and response activities. Liaising, negotiating and communicating with technical specialists, government agencies, industry bodies and other stakeholders. Assisting with the development and delivery of training and awareness courses for inspection staff and other stakeholders. Participating in working groups and other network meetings and contributing to the development and review of national policies and procedures. Prioritising and managing time to provide an efficient and effective service to meet internal and external client expectations, within a regulatory environment. Working independently or under limited guidance and with a high level of initiative, integrity and flexibility to support the work practices of the team and the day-to-day operations of the laboratory. Providing innovative advice and supporting changes that may affect Operational Science and Surveillance and/or delivery of key outputs to clients. Promoting and ensuring compliance with departmental WH&S policies and guidelines and being alert for and reporting risks regarding WH&S issues. Knowledge and Experience A significant aspect of these roles involves the operational application of technical knowledge and expertise. The successful applicant will have:
Knowledge of insects, arachnids and/or invertebrate pests of biosecurity significance to Australia. Practical experience in performing accurate morphology-based identification of invertebrate specimens (additional experience in molecular diagnostics would be advantageous). Knowledge of the Australian biosecurity environment and the application of pest risk mitigation measures, or the ability to rapidly acquire this knowledge. Skills and Capabilities The successful applicant will have:
A well-developed ability to perform routine diagnostics of invertebrates, including the ability to correctly identify pests of biosecurity significance. The capability to conduct advanced diagnostic tests including morphological identifications of problematic or specialist groups and/or molecular assays to confirm species level identification or other information. The ability to effectively develop further technical capacity in specific areas where required. A well-developed ability to interpret scientific literature and implement new diagnostic protocols. A well-developed ability to record data, analyse information and prepare reports and documentation. The ability to think laterally, solve problems and implement innovative solutions to improve existing practices whilst under limited supervision. A well-developed ability to provide timely and quality science-based risk advice. Demonstrated initiative, self-motivation and an ability to commit energy and drive to see that goals are achieved in an efficient and timely manner. Mandatory Qualifications Tertiary qualifications (bachelor's degree) in agriculture, ecology, or a related field that emphasises entomology.
Hold and maintain a valid Australian motor vehicle drivers licence. Note that relocation assistance is subject to negotiation. Wear an official uniform supplied by the department, including during field operations (as applicable), in accordance with the department's uniform policy. Wear appropriate protective personal equipment and clothing to comply with departmental Work Health & Safety policies and procedures. Note that the physical requirements of the role(s) involve a combination of outdoor, laboratory and office-based work. Note that intra and interstate travel is a requirement of the position. Note that there may be a requirement to work out of hours (including on weekends and public holidays) to provide out of hours diagnostic support, participate in emergency response and other activities.
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