Department of Primary Industries and Regions
Job reference: 861999
Location: 5024 - WEST BEACH
Job status: Short Term Contract
Eligibility: SA Public Sector Employees only

Apply molecular science to assist in the stock assessment of a key commercial fish species.

Join SARDI Aquatic Sciences as a Technical Grades Officer - Molecular Technologist and play a key role in delivering the science that supports sustainable management of South Australia's marine resources.
Working within the Molecular Biotechnology Subprogram, you'll apply molecular technologies, including in-situ hybridisation (ISH), PCR and qPCR, to rapidly and accurately detect snapper eggs from mixed field samples. Your work will contribute to research, monitoring and rapid response programs that help protect marine ecosystems, support industry confidence and inform critical management and policy decisions.
This is a hands-on technical laboratory role operating at the forefront of aquatic molecular science. You'll manage and optimise laboratory workflows, prepare and analyse environmental samples, and develop and validate new molecular assays for rapid and accurate species identification.
Working alongside field staff, research scientists and technologists, you'll help generate reliable, high-quality scientific data that supports sustainable industries, healthy marine environments and resilient regional communities.
We're seeking a detail-oriented and innovative laboratory professional with strong molecular biology expertise, a commitment to quality and a passion for applying science to solve real-world environmental and industry challenges.
In return, you'll join a collaborative and highly regarded research environment, with opportunities to work on cutting-edge technologies, contribute to nationally significant research programs and continue developing your technical and professional capabilities.
At PIRSA and SARDI, we value diverse perspectives and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels respected, supported and empowered to contribute. We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds who are passionate about making a difference through science.

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 work permit is required (responsibility of applicant to provide evidence of a current work permit).
• Opportunity up to June 2027.
• 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.
• Undertaking field work.
• 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.
• The incumbent will be required to contribute to whole-of-agency working groups developing PIRSA policy responses to significant and emerging issues as required.

Qualifications

Essential

• Diploma or Advanced Diploma in an approved and recognized qualification or an equivalent.

Desirable

• Tertiary qualification (BSc with Honours or equivalent) in molecular biology, genetics, microbiology, or related discipline.

Remuneration
TGO3 - $90,371 min - $95,410 max per annum, plus superannuation

Enquiries

Sarah Catalano

Sub-Program Leader – Molecular Biotechnology
Phone: 0884292107
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: 10/11/2026 11:45 PM

Attachments:
- Application Guidelines.pdf
- Pre-Employment-Declaration_240522.pdf
- Role Description - TGO3 Molecular Technologist - Snapper ISH.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.