Principal Research Officer

• PEL 1
• $135,665 to $151,964
• Procedure Office

The Department of the Senate is seeking applications from those interested in joining the Legislative Scrutiny Unit within the Procedure Office, in the role of Principal Research Officer.

This recruitment process may be used to fill future vacancies in the Legislative Scrutiny Unit as they arise.

The Principal Research Officer is responsible for major legislative analysis, research and writing tasks supporting the work of the Senate Scrutiny of Bills Committee. This includes high-level legislative scrutiny of bills or legislative instruments, analysis and research as well as preparing complex reports and briefs for consideration by the chair and the committees.

The Principal Research Officer is expected to take carriage of the preparatory work for meetings of the committees, assist with other committee business, and is responsible for the supervision of lower level employees.

The Principal Research Officer may also be required to act as secretary to the committee on occasions and has a well-developed understanding of parliamentary processes and of the role played by parliamentary committees.

On occasion, the Principal Research Officer may support the work of the secretariat of the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Human Rights and the Senate's Scrutiny of Delegated Legislation Committee.

To apply, you are asked to provide a one-page pitch detailing your suitability to perform the duties of the position with reference to the selection criteria. You are also asked to provide a copy of your CV or résumé.

The Department of the Senate is committed to being an inclusive employer. We aim to provide a supportive, flexible, and fair workplace that recognises the diversity within the Australian community, where all employees feel respected, valued and supported to best contribute to our work. We encourage applications from First Nations’ people, people with disabilities, neurodivergent people, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, those who identify as LGBTIQA+, mature aged employees and people with caring responsibilities.

How to apply: