Biosecurity Officer

Biosecurity Officer  
Permanent – ongoing, full time 
  
The Opportunity
Hinchinbrook Shire Council is seeking a proactive and community-focused Biosecurity Officer to join our Biosecurity Team. In this hands-on role, you will help protect the region's environment, agricultural productivity and community wellbeing through the delivery of biosecurity programs, invasive species control, compliance activities and stakeholder engagement. Working across diverse landscapes, you will conduct inspections, provide specialist advice, undertake surveillance and monitoring activities, and support the implementation of Council's Biosecurity Plan and legislative obligations. 
 
What Council Offers:

• 72.5 hour fortnight with roster variations depending on the position (9-day fortnight - RDOs in accordance with Council policy) 
• Up to 12.5% Superannuation employer contribution for contributing members 
• 5 weeks annual leave plus 17.5% annual leave loading 
• 15 days paid sick/parental leave 
• Salary Packaging options 
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) 
• Accredited Mental Health First Aid Officers 
• Annual Flu vaccinations + Skin Checks  
• Corporate Uniforms (annual allowance) and PPE supplied 

General Salary Information:
This position is classified as Level 2C under the Hinchinbrook Shire Council Local Government Officers (Stream A) Certified Agreement. 

The salary is $73,303 per annum + superannuation. $38.8876 per hour including allowances. 

Our Ideal Candidate
We are looking for a motivated and practical professional who enjoys working both independently and as part of a team. You will have experience in biosecurity, land management, pest management or a related field, together with strong communication and relationship-building skills. The successful candidate will be confident working outdoors in a variety of conditions, have sound knowledge of safe chemical application practices, and be capable of engaging constructively with landholders, government agencies and community stakeholders. You will also possess well-developed computer literacy skills and be comfortable using a range of digital systems and tools in your day-to-day work. A commitment to workplace safety, environmental stewardship and high-quality customer service is essential. 
  
Key Responsibilities

• Carry out activities within specific biosecurity, plant and animal risk prevention and response programs, including undertaking field inspections, applying and monitoring controls, education, data collection and reporting.  
• Utilise specialised equipment and knowledge in the application of chemicals, ensuring compliance with legislative, licensing requirements and operating procedures.  
• Regularly maintain equipment to ensure it is in good working order and can appropriately store and safely transport herbicides and other hazardous substances.  
• Engage with landholders and other agency field staff in the delivery of Hinchinbrook Local Government Area Biosecurity Plan (HLGABP) priority pest management actions and General Biosecurity Obligations (GBOs) under the Biosecurity Act 2014. 

See the Position Description for a more extensive list of key responsibilities. 
  
Key Selection Criteria  
If our values resonate with you ‘Opportunity, Respect, Strength and Accountability’ and you possess the following qualifications and experience, read below about how to apply: 
  
Mandatory: 

• Current Queensland Commercial Operators License – Herbicides (or the ability to obtain);  
• Ability to safely work herbicides and other hazardous substances;  
• Experience in the operation of 4WD vehicles in challenging conditions;  
• Well-developed computer literacy skills in Microsoft Office products and computer peripherals, including Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and mapping software; 
• Good communication skills, both verbal and written; and  
• Current Queensland ‘C’ Class Drivers Licence (minimum P1).  

Desirable: 

• Certificate in Conservation and Land Management or a related qualification; and 
• A combination of a Firearms License, 1080 Poisons Accreditation, Vector Control Qualifications, and/or Marine Operators License. 

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements: 
Applicants must be able to safely and competently carry out strenuous labouring and manual handling activities. The position will require the employee to carry out physical tasks which may include manual handling, repetitive bending, kneeling, twisting and/or squatting, lifting, working in confined spaces, and working at heights. 

How to Apply  
To apply, submit your application online by clicking 'Apply For Job' and follow the steps. Please provide: 

1. A current resume 
2. A cover letter addressing the “Our Ideal Candidate” and Key Selection Criteria section (max. 2 pages). 

Applications close on ‘Wednesday 26 August 2026 at 5.00pm AEST’ 

Applications that do not meet the above requirements may not be shortlisted. The advertisement will be closed either when a successful applicant is identified or on the application close date, whichever is sooner. 
 
For More Information: 
Thank you for your consideration and interest in this position. For a confidential discussion, contact Matthew Buckman Biosecurity Coordinator on (07) 4776 4***. 

The Selection Process 
We welcome candidates to inform us of any adjustments they may need to ensure a supportive and inclusive recruitment experience and workplace environment. Hinchinbrook Shire Council is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people and disadvantaged job seekers to apply. 
 
Celebrating the rich diversity of our community, we are dedicated to attracting and employing people who reflect the community we serve. We value and respect the unique contributions of our employees and are committed to fostering an inclusive and safe workplace where everyone is supported to reach their full potential. 
 
Please note that only individuals with the right to work in Australia are eligible to apply. As part of the recruitment process, the preferred candidate will need to undertake a National Police Check and pre-employment medical assessments, which may include drug and alcohol testing, to confirm their ability to meet the role's inherent requirements.