Leading Biosecurity Officer

Company description:

Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action

Job description:

The Leading Biosecurity Officer provides regional leadership in the delivery of invasive plant and animal management, plant biosecurity and agricultural chemical programs across Victoria. The role leads and coordinates complex projects, ensures priority operational outcomes are achieved, and manages a diverse team of Biosecurity Officers to deliver high‑quality regulatory and advisory services to industry and the wider community.

The position works closely with internal and external stakeholders to support preparedness for, and response to, biosecurity risks and emergencies, contributing to the protection of Victoria's agricultural productivity, environment, and market access.

Operating within a regulatory framework, the role exercises authorised powers under relevant legislation, undertakes investigations, and may represent the department in legal proceedings.

Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications

• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in project management, including the ability to plan, implement, monitor and evaluate complex programs and resolve operational service delivery issues in line with strategic and operational objectives.
• Demonstrated experience in leading and managing teams, including supervision, performance management, staff development and mentoring, and the design and implementation of professional development programs.
• Demonstrated experience in managing biosecurity‑related projects, with proven ability to liaise, negotiate and collaborate with a broad range of internal and external stakeholders.
• Highly developed written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare detailed reports, briefs and correspondence on complex and sensitive issues, and to deliver clear and effective presentations to internal and external audiences.
• Proven ability to interpret and apply legislation, undertake compliance and regulatory activities, and conduct investigations into alleged breaches, including the ability to gather evidence, prepare documentation, and support enforcement or legal proceedings where required.

Mandatory qualification

• Tertiary degree in Agricultural Science, Science or an equivalent science qualification. Candidates must have these qualifications to be considered eligible and verification is required prior to appointment.

This is a fixed term position available until 30 June 2027. The work location for this position is Flexible within South West Victoria with hybrid work arrangements available.

To be considered for this position, applicants are encouraged to submit a resume and cover letter (no longer than 2 pages) summarising their skills and relevant experience.

Please refer to the Key Selection Criteria provided in the Position Description, including the mandatory requirements.

How to Apply:

If you are a current DEECA employee, please apply via DEECA Careers.

Click the ‘Apply' button and you'll be redirected to a new platform and create an account.

Applications close 11.59pm on Tuesday, 18 August 2026.

All applications must be submitted through the online portal. We are unable to consider email or manual applications at this time.

Other relevant information:

Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form and a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check.

To be eligible for appointment to this role, applicants will possess corresponding work rights for the advertised employment period. Appointment to an ongoing position is only available to an Australian/New Zealand citizen or an Australian Permanent Resident.

An inclusive, culturally safe and flexible workplace

DEECA fosters an inclusive workplace culture and is committed to a fair, accessible, and equitable recruitment process.

We strongly encourage Aboriginal and or Torres Strait Islander people to apply. We recognise the strengths, knowledge and perspectives First Nations people bring and DEECA is committed to a culturally safe and respectful workplace. If you need support to participate, please contact ***************@deeca.vic.gov.au.

We support flexible working arrangements, including hybrid work, varied hours, part-time work and job sharing. For more information about our recruitment processes, visit applying for a role with us.