About the role
Work where opportunity and lifestyle connect. Help lead Veterinary Biosecurity in scenic Tasmania!
The Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer plays a key role in protecting Tasmania's biosecurity status and supporting animal health and welfare outcomes across the state. This position provides strategic leadership across animal health, disease surveillance, biosecurity, emergency management and regulatory services.
This is a permanent position, working 73.50 hours per fortnight (or a minimum of 58.8 hours by negotiation), based in Hobart or Launceston.
In this role you will:
- Support the Chief Veterinary Officer in the development and implementation of animal health, welfare and biosecurity strategy, policy and programs.
- Lead veterinary staff and ensure the high-quality delivery of surveillance, regulatory and biosecurity services.
- Oversee animal disease surveillance programs and reporting activities.
- Provide expert advice on significant animal health, welfare and zoonotic disease issues and support emergency animal disease preparedness and response activities.
- Coordinate responses to animal disease incidents and outbreaks.
- Use animal health data and intelligence to inform policy, planning and decision-making.
- Build strong partnerships with industry, government, research organisations and national stakeholders.
- Support resource planning, budget management and continuous improvement initiatives.
Why Tasmania?
Contribute to meaningful work in a meaningful place while enjoying the exceptional lifestyle Tasmania has to offer.
Whether based in Hobart or Launceston, you'll enjoy the benefits of living and working in a unique island state. Tasmania offers vibrant communities, short commutes and easy access to some of the country's most spectacular natural environments.
Enjoy world-class hiking, mountain biking, beaches, renowned food and wine experiences, and a thriving arts and culture scene. Tasmania's distinctive lifestyle allows you to build a rewarding career while making the most of your time outside work.
If you're considering a lifestyle change without compromising on career challenge or impact, this could be the opportunity you've been waiting for!
Our ideal candidate has
- Extensive veterinary leadership experience, with a strong track record in animal health, biosecurity, disease surveillance, emergency animal disease preparedness and regulatory service delivery.
- The ability to think strategically and influence outcomes, using sound judgement to navigate complex animal health, welfare and biosecurity issues at both operational and policy levels.
- Exceptional stakeholder engagement skills, with experience building productive relationships across government, industry, research organisations and veterinary networks.
- A collaborative and people-focused leadership style, with the ability to motivate, develop and support high-performing teams while fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
- Excellent communication and decision-making capabilities, enabling them to provide trusted expert advice, lead through challenging situations and deliver effective outcomes in a dynamic environment.
Position requirements
- Candidates must have a degree in Veterinary Science or an equivalent qualification from a recognised tertiary institution enabling eligibility for registration under the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1987.
- The successful candidate will need to satisfy a pre-employment conviction check before commencing in the role.
We offer
- The chance to make a real impact, leading disease preparedness, surveillance and emergency response initiatives that safeguard Tasmania's communities, industries and environment.
- Permanent full-time leadership position with flexible working arrangements available.
- An exceptional Tasmanian lifestyle, with short commutes, outstanding food and wine, and easy access to world-class wilderness, beaches, hiking and outdoor recreation.
- A supportive workplace culture, with opportunities for professional growth, collaboration and engagement across government, industry and national veterinary networks.
- Access to staff benefits, including discounts with a syndicate of gyms and fitness centres, nominated health funds and AVIS car rentals.
About us
The Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania (NRE Tas) is committed to our vision of “delivering a sustainable Tasmania” where our natural resources, cultural values and environment are recognised and used sustainably to support our future prosperity. We take pride in fostering a workplace where diversity is celebrated, inclusivity is embraced and safety is paramount.
We are committed to building a positive and proactive child safe culture to support child safety and wellbeing. We strive to create an environment where every individual feels respected, valued, and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work.
We understand that work/life balance is essential for personal and professional success. That’s why we offer flexible work options and are dedicated to making workplace adjustments that empower individuals to fully engage and excel in their roles.
How to apply
- Review the Statement of Duties.
- Click the "Apply now" button.
- Complete the application form.
- Upload your Short Form Application which is a 1-2 page covering letter outlining your experience, skills and knowledge as they relate to the Statement of Duties (please note that we do not require a separate statement addressing the selection criteria).
- Attach a copy of your current Resumé/CV.
Refer to the Advice to Applicants document for further information.
If you are unable to submit your application online, please contact Recruitment via recruitment@nre.tas.gov.au.
If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.
Applicants should note that, for a period of twelve months from the date of advertising, this selection process may be used to fill subsequent or similar full time, part time, and casual vacancies.
For more information please contact:
Rachel Hay
People & Performance Partner
Email: Rachel.Hay@nre.tas.gov.au
Phone: 0473 103 379
We encourage you to get in touch for a confidential conversation about the role if you have any questions!