Principal Officer Plant Biosecurity

We have an exciting opportunity for a Principal Officer Plant Biosecurity to be part of our Biosecurity Division within PIRSA. The role reports to the Manager Biosecurity Governance and Projects.
PIRSA's Biosecurity division manages the risks posed to South Australia by animal and plant pests and diseases, food borne illnesses, and the misuse of rural chemicals.
Through these biosecurity efforts we are able to maintain the productivity of our primary industries, produce clean and safe foods and beverages, protect our natural environments and sustain the health and wellbeing of our communities.
This role provides expert Plant Biosecurity scientific advice, assesses plant pest risks and develops Plant Biosecurity policies and strategic plans, whilst representing the agency and state government on technical and policy forums, and contributing to the work of the broader Biosecurity Governance and Projects team.
What you'll be working on:

• Leading and developing policy and legislative initiatives to achieve state and national objectives on a range of Plant Biosecurity issues.
• Providing specialist advice including assessing and managing critical risks for highly complex Plant Biosecurity issues.
• Preparing high level Plant Biosecurity submissions, reports and briefings to key stakeholders.
• Developing and maintaining effective regulatory tools to support delivery of state and national responsibilities.

About you:

• You will have an expert knowledge of biosecurity and plant health practices at all levels of government.
• You will have a thorough understanding of decision-making and governance processes within state and federal government.
• You will be a collaborative strategic thinker, able to identify and solve complex problems, with astute political judgment.

What you will need:

• A degree in agricultural science, science or relevant discipline is essential, preferably with a focus on plant pathology and/or entomology.

About Us
South Australia is internationally recognised for the quality of its agriculture, food, and wine. Our regions are the backbone of our state and the economic powerhouse that drives prosperity for all South Australians.
The Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) is a key economic development agency working in partnership with our primary industries, regional stakeholders and across all levels of government to advance the prosperity and sustainability of South Australia's primary industries and regional communities.
We are a passionate team of around 800 people working across metropolitan and regional South Australia to develop and protect our state's regions and food, wine, aquaculture, fisheries, forestry, grains, livestock, dairy and horticulture industries.
It's no wonder there are so many exciting and diverse career opportunities in our organisation. If you're ready to join us, apply now!
Benefits
At the Department of Primary Industries and Regions, we offer our employees challenging and rewarding work with opportunities for career progression, learning and development and flexibility.
Our Commitment to Diversity
The Department of Primary Industries and Regions is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We embrace diversity and welcome applications from all people, irrespective of culture, faith, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or age.
Special Conditions

• Successful applicant will be required to satisfactorily complete a National Police Check (NPC) prior to being made an offer of employment.
• Australian residency or current works permit is required (responsibility of applicant to provide evidence of a current work permit).
• The position may be located at other PIRSA sites within metropolitan Adelaide.

Requirements

• Out of hours work and inter / intrastate travel may be required.
• Australian residency or current works permit is required (responsibility of applicant to provide evidence of a current work permit).
• You acknowledge your work, health and safety obligations and our expectations when applying for a role.
• You will be required to undertake emergency management training and must be willing to participate in emergency preparedness, response and recovery activities required by government agencies.

Remuneration
PO4- $109,060- $118,690 per annum, plus superannuation
Enquiries
Petra Lennon
Phone: (08) 8429 0101
Email: petra.lennon@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 (of no more than 1200 words) outlining how your skills and experience demonstrate your ability to meet the Professional and Technical Knowledge, Vision and Problem Solving capabilities of the role description and a current CV (no more than 2 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.