The Opportunity

We have a rare and exciting opportunity for an experienced Marine Biogeochemist to be part of the South Australian Research and Development Institute Division within the Department of Primary Industries and Regions. 

Reporting to the Sub-program Leader (Algal Production), the Marine Biogeochemist will work primarily on the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC) project `Ecologically sustainable aquaculture growth through Integrated Multitrophic Aquaculture (IMTA)  - Incorporating nutrient modelling into regulatory frameworks'. 

The Marine Biogeochemist will also work closely with a Marine Biogeochemical Modeller and Project Policy Officer to deliver technical outcomes for the project that will underpin biogeochemical models for IMTA. The model will assist in developing a national policy guideline to inform regulatory frameworks that supports the development, implementation, management, and uptake of IMTA and ecologically sustainable growth in Australian aquaculture. 

The effectiveness of this role requires specific knowledge and experience working on biogeochemical processes in the marine environment and undertaking manipulative experiments to validate biogeochemical models for integrated multitrophic aquaculture (IMTA).

In this role you will use your analytical expertise to measure several important biogeochemical parameters in marine environmental samples; coupled with a strong understanding of marine biogeochemical processes, provide high level technical for the collection of samples; exercising sound knowledge in the interpretations of results and partner with colleagues across the organisation to drive scientific quality and excellence.

The role contributes to delivering R&D outcomes for the FRDC funded IMTA project and deliver outcomes for various industry and grant funded projects of the Algal Production Group within SARDI's Aquaculture Program. 

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).
• This is a term position (externally funded) until January 2027 

Requirements

• Possession of a current Class C driver's licence and willingness to drive.
• The incumbent will be required to undertake sampling and experiments from small research vessels and vessels of our industry partners with extended hours at sea. 
• Out of hours work and inter- and intrastate travel may be required.
• The position is based out of SARDI's West Beach facility and the Lincoln Marine Science Centre with trials at offshore aquaculture leases in the Port Lincoln region requiring regular travel between sites.
• May be required to work out of hours and on weekend and public holidays.
• 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. 

Essential: 

• A post-graduate degree in Science with a major in biology, oceanography, marine/biochemistry, or related field is required.

Desirable: 

• A PhD or equivalent in a relevant field of science specialising in biological oceanography, marine chemistry, aquatic biogeochemistry, marine ecology, or marine science with relevant analytical experience.
• A Coxswain qualification and experience undertaking research on small boats. 
• ADAS Commercial dive qualification or a Rescue Diver qualification with 15 logged dives in the past 12 months.

Benefits you will get in return:

• Free parking available onsite (West Beach)
• Hybrid working model with flexible working options to promote work life balance.
• Salary sacrificing options available.
• Opportunity to advance your career and work with some of the state's leading experts in research and development to support the primary industries across the state.

Remuneration

PO2 - $88,255 min - $97,667 max per annum, plus superannuation