Department of Primary Industries and Regions
Job reference: 862253
Location: 5024 - WEST BEACH
Job status: Long Term Contract
Eligibility: SA Public Sector Employees only

Help deliver the science that shapes the future of South Australia's inland waterways, fisheries and regional communities.
PIRSA is seeking a motivated and collaborative professional to join our Fish Ecology team and contribute to research that supports the conservation, management and rehabilitation of South Australia's inland waters, estuaries and freshwater fisheries.
As part of the Inland Waters and Catchment Ecology Program, you will provide technical and scientific support across a range of fish monitoring and research projects in the South Australian River Murray. Your work will generate high-quality scientific information that supports evidence-based policy, sustainable resource management and positive outcomes for industry, government, First Nations communities and the broader public.
A key focus of the role is supporting meaningful First Nations engagement, helping strengthen partnerships and ensuring diverse perspectives contribute to the management of our aquatic ecosystems.

What You'll Do

• Contribute to fish ecology research and monitoring programs that inform the sustainable management of South Australia's inland and estuarine aquatic resources.
• Undertake fieldwork, including vessel-based monitoring, as well as laboratory, data management and analytical activities.
• Support the collection, management, analysis and interpretation of scientific data and research outcomes.
• Coordinate research data management and storage processes to ensure data integrity and accessibility.
• Play a central role in First Nations engagement activities and reporting.
• Assist in the preparation of technical reports, presentations and project updates for government, industry and community stakeholders.
• Build strong working relationships across PIRSA and with external partners to support successful project delivery.

Why Join PIRSA?
At PIRSA, you'll be part of an organisation committed to supporting sustainable industries, resilient environments and thriving regional communities. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to significant environmental research while building a rewarding public sector career.

We offer:

• Meaningful work that directly influences environmental management, fisheries sustainability and natural resource decision-making.
• The opportunity to contribute to important River Murray and freshwater ecology research programs.
• A diverse role combining fieldwork, scientific research, stakeholder engagement and project support.
• Challenging and rewarding work within a collaborative and supportive team environment.
• Opportunities for career progression, learning and professional development.
• Flexible working arrangements that support work-life balance.
• The stability and benefits of a South Australian Public Sector career.
• A workplace that values diversity, inclusion, innovation and strong community partnerships.

If you're looking to apply your skills in a role where your work delivers tangible outcomes for South Australia's waterways, ecosystems and communities, we'd love to hear from you.

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!

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.
• Opportunity up to November 2027.
• Full time opportunity, 37.5 hours per week.

Requirements

• Regular intra-state and occasional inter-state travel.
• Fieldwork requires extended periods on small vessels.
• Possession of a current driver’s licence and willingness to drive.
• 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 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.

Qualifications

Essential

• Tertiary qualification in a field of scientific research (e.g. environmental, zoology).

Desirable

• Understanding and demonstrated experience in fish ecology research.
• Apply first aid.
• Electrofishing Safety Training certification
• Experience in working with First Nations communities in the southern Murray-Darling Basin.

Remuneration
PO1 - $73,533 min - $89,764 max per annum, plus superannuation

Enquiries
Chris Bice
Fish Ecology Sub-Program Leader
Phone: 0428114097
Email: [email protected]

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: 01/11/2026 11:45 PM

Attachments:
- Application Guidelines.pdf
- Pre-Employment-Declaration_240522.pdf
- Role Description - PO1 Research Officer Inland Waters (Fish Ecology).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.