Department of Primary Industries and Regions
Job reference: 838700
Location: 5064 - URRBRAE
Job status: Long Term Contract
Eligibility: Open to Everyone

The Opportunity

As the Senior Research Officer, Entomology, you’ll step into a pivotal role driving research that directly supports South Australia’s grains and horticulture industries, while delivering high‑value diagnostic and scientific advisory services to Biosecurity SA.

In this position, you’ll help shape and deliver integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, contribute to innovative research programs, and play an active role in investigating unusual or emerging pest issues. You’ll also support and deliver diagnostic training workshops, collaborate closely with growers, agronomists and industry partners, and help maintain the program’s reputation for high‑quality, reliable diagnostic capability.

If you bring expertise in invertebrate taxonomy, biology, ecology and IPM — and you can translate complex technical information into clear, practical insights — this role offers the chance to make a meaningful impact. Strong relationship‑building skills and a passion for working alongside growers and regional groups will set you up for success.

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!

About SARDI – Waite Campus

Since 1924, the Waite Campus in Urrbrae SA has been the home of agricultural research and teaching. This beautiful site nestled 7 kilometers southeast of the Adelaide CBD is home to staff and students working on various research projects to deliver critical innovations, discoveries and breakthroughs.

The SA Research and Development Institute has pursued world-leading research and development solutions here for primary producers in South Australia and beyond since it was established in 1992 and has a valued role in informing the Department of Primary Industries and Regions’ (PIRSA’s) pursuit of advancing the prosperity of the State’s primary industries and regional communities.

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.

Benefits you will get in return:

• Free parking is available onsite at the picturesque Waite campus
• Genuine flexibility with the option of working a 9-day fortnight
• Hybrid working model with flexible working options to promote work life balance
• Salary sacrificing options available
• Opportunity to advance your career and work with some of the state’s leading experts in research and development to support the primary industries across the state

Special Conditions

• Successful applicant will be required to satisfactorily complete a National Police Check (NPC) prior to being made an offer of employment.
• Opportunity up to December 2027, with opportunity of extension pursuant to new projects.
• Full time opportunity, 37.5 hours per week.

Requirements

• Possession of a current driver’s licence and willingness to drive.
• 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.
• The position will be working in collaboration with Universities and External Funding Bodies.
• 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.

Remuneration
PO2 - $91,565 min - $106,074 max per annum, plus superannuation

Confidential Enquiries

Peter Crisp
Program Leader, Entomology  
Phone: +61 884 290 401
Email:  peter.crisp@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, Attention to Detail and Communication 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: 17/04/2026 11:45 PM

Attachments:
- Application Guidelines#2.pdf
- Pre-Employment-Declaration_240522.pdf
- Role Description - PO2 Senior Research Officer - Entomology.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.