The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry
As a senior scientific leader reporting to the Assistant Secretary, Natural Resources Branch, you will be well established in your career in forest sciences, experienced in leading teams, managing projects, collaborating widely, undertaking research and analysis, preparing high-quality briefings and scientific and policy communication products.
Who we are
ABARES - the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences - is the research arm of the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. We provide professionally independent, high-quality research, analysis, forecasting, and statistics on portfolio industries, to government and private sector decision-makers. We are a unique organisation comprised of innovative and passionate teams and offer the opportunity to work in a collaborative, relaxed, and inclusive working environment. ABARES has a wealth of expertise in applied economic and scientific research developing innovative modelling techniques, undertaking comprehensive surveys, and developing internationally recognised data management processes. The bureau also provides integrated socio-economic and biophysical analysis to address the policy issues facing Australia's primary industries.
The Natural Resources Branch provides scientific and economic research, analysis, and statistics that inform policy development for Australia's forests, water markets, agricultural land, domestic fisheries and Australia's engagement in international forest and fisheries matters. The branch capability includes geospatial analysis, scientific sustainability assessments for forests and fisheries, and economic assessment and forecasting. The branch produces a range of outputs including regular publications and datasets, research and technical reports, representation and engagement in meetings, and direct advice to policy makers.
The Forest and Land Sciences Program responds to the needs of the Australian Government for policies and programs that promote more efficient, productive, and sustainable forest and land management, and support agriculture and forest communities with authoritative information for industry development. The Program also meets domestic and international reporting obligations in relation to Australia's native and plantation forests, sustainable forest management, agricultural land, and land degradation and restoration, including through the Australia's State of the Forests Report series. The Program has a strong focus on integrated spatial analysis, develops and holds key national datasets on forests and land use, manages the Forests Australia website, and works collaboratively with other government and research agencies to deliver its information products.
The Job
The duties of this role include:
Undertake and lead advanced scientific research and analysis, and clearly articulate findings in reports, briefs, papers, and presentations. Also includes ensuring the quality and timeliness of research outputs, and provision of effective and timely high-level advice to Departmental divisions, executive, and Portfolio Minister. Manage and contribute to projects through provision of specialist technical expertise and research, and communication of research insights and outputs. Build partnerships, collaborate, and ensure effective communication and consultation with internal and external stakeholders to understand, respond to, and anticipate, current and future requirements for Australian forest sector priorities and issues, both native forests and plantations. Negotiate effectively in national and international forums, on behalf of the Department. Contribute to the development and implementation of the Forest and Land Science Program work plan, to ensure projects are aligned with Departmental priorities. Ensure finances and people resources are prudently and effectively managed.
Skills and Capabilities
The successful candidate will possess the following attributes, skills, and capabilities: A strong background in applied research in one or more of forest ecology, sustainable natural resource management, or environmental sciences. Highly developed scientific and analytical skills, with excellent written and verbal communication skills. Highly motivated, productive, and able to work carefully, accurately, and rapidly with a high level of attention to detail. An understanding of relevant federal government responsibilities, programs, and legislation. Demonstrated ability to build and maintain constructive professional working relationships and collaborations with colleagues and staff including from other government bodies, external agencies, and industry.
Knowledge and experience
The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate: An excellent record of achievement in applied forest science, environmental science or natural resource management. Extensive scientific experience, preferably including in Australia's native forests and plantations, working in one or more of forest ecology, forest health and vitality, forest carbon dynamics, or forest productivity. Experience with analysing or reporting on environmental performance and/or sustainable forest management. A strong understanding of the management of Australia's forests and forest industries. A sound history of successful project management and delivery. Mandatory qualifications
Bachelor of Science (Honours), or equivalent qualification, in an appropriate discipline (forest sciences, environmental sciences, natural resource management or a related field). Postgraduate qualifications are an advantage.
Eligibility Citizenship - To be eligible for employment with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry you must be an Australian citizen.
Security Clearance - This position requires a Baseline Vetting security clearance. You will be required to obtain and maintain a clearance at this level.
Pre-employment Check - Your suitability for employment will be assessed through a pre-employment screening process. This process includes a requirement to undergo and satisfy a National Police Check, referee checks, character clearance, and where required a pre-employment medical assessment, specified mandatory qualification(s) validation, and a probation period of 6 months.
MSIC and ASIC Licences – If the position requires unescorted access within an aviation or maritime security zone, you will be required to obtain and maintain an Aviation Security Identification Card (ASIC) or Maritime Security Identification Card (MSIC).
The successful applicant must: ABARES is based in Canberra but actively supports flexible and remote working arrangements. The location preference is for 'Canberra-based employees but other locations considered'. Experience working in Federal, state or territory governments is desirable.
For additional information, please read the Job Description below .
Candidate Information Package (word doc)
Candidate Information Package (pdf doc)
Job Description #J-18808-Ljbffr
