Department of Primary Industries and Regions
Job reference: 853568
Location: 5024 - WEST BEACH
Job status: Ongoing
Eligibility: SA Public Sector Employees only

The Opportunity

We have an opportunity for a Senior Research Services officer - Pelagic Fishes to be part of our South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI) within the Department of Primary Industries and Regions.

Are you an experienced public sector professional looking to apply your leadership, project management and operational expertise to impactful scientific research?

SARDI Aquatic Sciences is seeking a skilled and motivated professional to coordinate the planning and delivery of field-based research operations and laboratory activities supporting the Pelagic Fishes Sub-Program. This role offers an opportunity to contribute to the sustainable management of South Australia's fisheries resources while working within one of Australia's leading fisheries research agencies.

Working across a large and complex research program, you will lead the coordination of field operations conducted on both commercial fishing vessels and SARDI research vessels, oversee fieldwork staff, ensure compliance with WHS and hazard management requirements, and contribute to fisheries stock assessments and scientific research projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate and oversee fisheries research operations and field-based scientific programs.
• Lead operational planning and delivery of research activities across multiple locations and vessels.
• Supervise fieldwork staff and support safe, effective research practices.
• Implement and maintain WHS systems, risk management processes and operational procedures.
• Lead and contribute to stock assessments and fisheries research projects.
• Provide expert operational advice to support scientific investigations and evidence-based fisheries management.
• Develop and maintain productive relationships with industry, stakeholders, research organisations and government partners.

About You

You will bring experience in managing complex operational programs, coordinating field-based activities, and leading teams in dynamic environments. Your ability to work collaboratively, manage competing priorities, and apply sound judgement will enable you to successfully support high-quality scientific outcomes.

Government experience will be highly regarded, particularly in project delivery, program coordination, natural resources, environmental management, research, or primary industries. Strong stakeholder engagement, leadership and organisational skills are essential.

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 to be Ongoing.
• 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.
• Field trips on research and commercial vessels.
• 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.
• 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

OPS4 - $82,212 min - $86,180 max per annum, plus superannuation

Enquiries

Vinuri Silva

Senior Research Officer – Pelagic Fishes
Phone: 08 71 338 933
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: 15/08/2026 6:00 PM

Attachments:
- Application Guidelines.pdf
- Pre-Employment-Declaration_240522.pdf
- Role Description - OPS4 Senior Research Services Officer - Pelagic Fishes.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.