Biosecurity Officer (Affirmative Measure - First Nations)

Description:

Who we are
The Biosecurity Plant and Science Services Division (BPSSD) safeguards Australia's plant health status to achieve, maintain and expand overseas markets while protecting the economy and environment. The division includes four branches which together focus on providing scientific analysis and technical advice, facilitating the safe importation of plants and plant products, improving systems, market access, capacity building and stakeholder engagement. The division provides diagnostics, with advice on biosecurity risk and measures, and biosecurity training. The division conducts surveillance and response at first points of entry and approved arrangements sites nationally and delivers plant, animal and aquatic health surveillance in northern Australia. The division works closely with communities and Indigenous rangers and regulates biosecurity risk in the Torres Strait.
Science and Surveillance Group (SSG) is comprised of scientists, operations and support staff responsible for regulatory advice and training, technical input to biosecurity policy, regulation activity in the Torres Strait and diverse surveillance and diagnostic services around Australia, including animal and plant health surveillance measures under the Northern Australia Quarantine Strategy.
The Torres Strait and Field Operations section manages the Northern Australia Quarantine Strategy (NAQS) activities in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area of Cape York. This includes the clearance of traditional and commercial vessels, aircraft, passenger and crew, cargo as well as monitoring and response programs, pest surveillance activities and public awareness.
The key duties of the position include
The Job
Under supervision, the main duties of an APS 3 Biosecurity Officer may include, but are not limited to:

• Liaise with customers and clients both internally and externally.
• Carry out biosecurity inspections/activities of vessels, aircraft, cargo and passengers in accordance with applicable legislation.
• Undertake field work including assisting scientific staff as required, plant surveillance and insect trapping.
• Assist with equipment, vehicle and vessel checks as required.
• Use computer applications to analyse, maintain and update data.
• Prepare reports, collect statistical data and submit within specific timeframes.
• Assist defined activities under agreement with other Commonwealth agencies and perform other duties as directed.