Department of Primary Industries and Regions
Job reference: 849353
Location: 5024 - WEST BEACH
Job status: Short Term Contract
Eligibility: SA Public Sector Employees only

The Opportunity

We have an opportunity for a Research Services Officer to be part of our SARDI Division within the Department of Primary Industries and Regions.

Join SARDI Aquatic Sciences and be part of hands-on marine research that makes a real impact.

Working within the Marine Ecosystems Program, you’ll support important research across environmental assessment, oceanography, marine biosecurity, and seagrass restoration. This is a practical, varied role where no two days are the same. You will be combining fieldwork, time at sea, and laboratory support in a collaborative research environment.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working outdoors, contributing to science in action, and building broad technical experience across multiple marine disciplines.

How you'll make a difference

You will play a key role in supporting research delivery by:

• Providing practical field and laboratory support across multiple projects
• Undertaking regular work at sea on research vessels, including physically demanding conditions
• Assisting with surveys, experiments, diving activities, and equipment handling
• Supporting laboratory activities such as sample preparation, seagrass processing, and video analysis
• Collecting, managing, and accurately recording research data
• Following safety procedures and ensuring all work is completed to a high standard
• Working closely with research teams to ensure projects run smoothly and efficiently

Your work will directly contribute to research that supports sustainable primary industries and helps South Australia adapt to climate and environmental change.

About you

You’re a reliable, safety-focused team member who enjoys hands-on work in dynamic environments. You bring:

• A strong work ethic and willingness to undertake physical, outdoor, and marine-based work
• The ability to work effectively with others and contribute positively to team outcomes
• Good attention to detail and the ability to follow scientific procedures
• Capability to carry out tasks with minimal supervision once trained

Essential:

• Rescue Diver (or higher) certification

Desirable:

• Relevant licences or qualifications (e.g. Coxswain, ADAS, forklift) or a tertiary qualification in a related discipline

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.
• Full time opportunity up to January 2027

Requirements

• Possession of a current C class driver’s license and willingness to drive.
• Out of hours work and inter / intrastate travel may be required, including extensive periods of time spent at sea on small and large vessels.
• Australian residency or current works permit is required (responsibility of applicant to provide evidence of a current work permit).
• The incumbent 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.
• Ability to pass an annual occupational diving medical and diving fitness test.
• You acknowledge your work, health and safety obligations and our expectations

Remuneration

OPS3 - $71,589 min - $76,033 max per annum, plus superannuation

Enquiries

Jason Tanner

Principal Scientist
Phone: 0422002948
Email: jason.tanner@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 see the attached applicant instructions, and outline your skills and experience in relation to the Professional and Technical Knowledge, Achievement Orientation and Attention to Detail capabilities of the attached role description.

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: 16/07/2026 11:45 PM

Attachments:
- Application Guidelines.pdf
- Pre-Employment-Declaration_240522.pdf
- Role Description - OPS3 Research Services Officer - Seagrass.pdf

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.