• Temporary Full Time 35 hours per week (up to June 2027)
• Preferred Work Location: Taylors Beach NSW. Also willing to consider candidates across all NSW locations.
• Scientific Officer Grade 3/4 – Salary from $121,845 to $141,286 per annum (FTE) plus super and leave loading

About the Role

Are you a fisheries scientist with a keen interest in the diverse field of recreational fisheries research? The Senior Fisheries Scientist role is for someone with a positive attitude and a background in scientific fisheries research and project management, who can maintain strong attention to detail while balancing competing priorities, and has excellent quantitative, problem-solving and communication skills.

As a Senior Fisheries Scientist, you will develop and manage scientific research and monitoring programs within the Recreational Fisheries Research team, with a key focus on:

• Managing the Recreational Fisheries Monitoring Off-Site Telephone/Diary surveys and ensuring data quality
• Developing innovative digital tools and dashboards to support research, including SQL databases, PowerApps and PowerBI dashboards
• Managing a team of contractors and overseeing work performance and data quality to facilitate delivery of program outcomes
• Preparing scientific reports and manuscripts for peer review and publication
• Contributing to professional services delivered under the Recreational Fisheries Research program

You will also:

• Design novel research projects to address contemporary fisheries issues in consultation and collaboration with the Program Leader, Senior Scientists and managers 
• Build and maintain effective stakeholder relationships to maximise efficient delivery of program outcomes and represent DPIRD at key forums

About You

You’re an experienced fisheries scientist with a strong foundation in fisheries research and project management. You bring:

• Proven ability to design, execute, and manage scientific research programs, including the application of rigorous experimental design in a fisheries context
• Expertise in survey design and data collection, with a strong commitment to ensuring the accuracy, quality and scientific integrity of research data
• Advanced analytical and programming skills, using tools like R, Python, and Power Query, to clean, transform, analyse and interpret complex datasets to support robust statistical reporting and evidence-based decision making
• Experience developing and maintaining SQL databases, creating data visualisations and interactive dashboards in Power BI, and building Power Apps to support efficient data entry and integration across organisational systems
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to provide expert scientific advice, prepare high-quality reports, and effectively translate complex information for diverse audiences
• Qualifications in Science (PhD will be highly regarded) along with experience supervising postgraduate students and supporting their research development

Your technical capability, attention to detail, and ability to balance competing priorities will ensure success in this dynamic role.

Essential requirements

• Qualifications in accordance with the Scientific Officers, Various Departments Agreement No. 2433 of 1982, along with relevant qualifications and experience in the areas of experimental design and fisheries science.
• Detailed knowledge and experience of issues relating to sustainable management of fisheries resources in NSW.

For further information about the role please contact hiring manager Dr Faith Ochwada-Doyle – Senior Research Scientist at faith.doyle@dpird.nsw.gov.au or on 0428 237 797. You can also view the Role Description Senior Fisheries Scientist, Scientific Officer Grade 3-4.docx

Applying is easy!

Please apply via our online portal and submit:

✅ A CV (approx. 4 pages)

✅ A cover letter (approx. 1 page) Tell us how your experience and skills make you a great fit for this role.

Applications close: 11:55pm Monday 2 February 2026 

What to Expect Next

After applying:

• You’ll receive a confirmation email
• We’ll review all applications once the ad closes
• If shortlisted, you may be invited to interview (in person or Microsoft Teams video)
• Further assessments will follow (e.g. writing task, skills test, psychometric test)
• Reference checks will be completed for final candidates  
• The preferred candidate for this role may be required to undergo reference checks, a national police check, bankruptcy check, health assessment and/or other assessments as required.
• A talent pool may be created for ongoing and temporary roles of the same type that may arise within the next 18 months. 

About us – together, we are DPIRD  

The New South Wales Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) protects, supports and develops primary industries and regional economies.  

Collectively we support strong and sustainable agriculture, forestry, fishing and mining industries, and regional economies. We actively manage our natural assets: our lands and soils, minerals, waterways and oceans, vegetation and forests.  

The department brings together:  

• Local Land Services  
• NSW Resources  
• Agriculture and Biosecurity  
• Fisheries and Forestry  
• Regional Development and Delivery.  

We have skilled and dedicated teams working in 200 locations across regional NSW. With nearly 5,000 employees, and 75 per cent of the DPIRD team living and working in regional NSW, we are embedded in the regions we serve. Learn more about the benefits of joining our diverse and talented DPIRD team.  

Additional Information

At DPIRD, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds – including, but not limited to, gender, age, ethnicity, cultural heritage, disability, religion and sexual orientation.  

DPIRD is a proud Disability Confident Recruiter, Family Inclusive Employer and Carer Friendly Employer

We are committed to ensuring every stage of the recruitment process is accessible and free from barriers. If you require adjustments or information in an alternative format to participate, please contact talent.advisory@dpird.nsw.gov.au or the hiring manager listed for a confidential discussion.  

We also understand that work is just one part of life. Our Family Inclusive Employer and Carers + Employers Accreditations reflect our commitment to supporting employees to balance work and family responsibilities.