- Biosecurity Officer
- Ongoing full time role available
- Location - Lord Howe Island
- Salary relative to experience, and ranges from LHI Officer Grade 4 - $82,752 - $90,000 + employer's contribution to superannuation and 17% loading for working weekends and public holidays
Do you want your work to make a difference for NSW?
Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage.
About Lord Howe Island
Lord Howe Island is located in the South Pacific Ocean approximately 700km north-east of Sydney and is part of NSW. The island has a high proportion of rare and endemic birds, plants, and invertebrates, and has the southernmost coral reef in the world. Three-quarters of the island is within the Permanent Park Preserve, which is managed similarly to a national park. There are approximately 445 residents and tourism is the major industry and source of income on the island. Approximately 16,000 people visit the island each year and there are 21 accommodation lodges.
The Lord Howe Island Board (the Board) is a statutory authority established under the provisions of the Lord Howe Island Act 1953. The Board is responsible to the NSW Minister for the Environment and comprises four islanders elected by the local community and three members appointed by the Minister. It is charged with the care, control and management of the island and the affairs and trade of the island. It is also responsible for the care, improvement and welfare of the island and residents.
The Lord Howe Island Board is part of the Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water cluster. Lord Howe Island Board members of staff are employed under section 21 of the Government Sector Employment and Management Act by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW). Ensuring a sustainable NSW through climate change and energy action, water management, environment and heritage protection.
In our inclusive and accessible workplace, differences are embraced, contributions are valued, and everyone has a sense of connection and belonging. DCCEEW supports various employee affinity groups, practises flexible working, offers job share and workplace adjustments. We are committed to the Premier’s Priorities and welcome applications from all.
For more information please refer to the Lord Howe Island Board website.
About the role
The Lord Howe Island Board is looking for a Biosecurity Officer to join the Biosecurity team based on Lord Howe Island. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the protection of the natural environment, economy and community of this unique World Heritage listed Property.
The role undertakes functions of an Authorised Officer under the Biosecurity Act 2015 (NSW Biosecurity Regulation 2017) to help deliver the Lord Howe Island Biosecurity Strategy (2022). The successful applicant will undertake the training needed to be an Authorised Officer when starting the role. As a valued member of the Biosecurity team, you’ll be tasked with the daily inspection of incoming vessels and planes for biosecurity matter, for the management and maintenance of the existing biosecurity surveillance network and participating in and leading existing invasive species control/ eradication programmes on the island.
You will receive training in standard biosecurity operating procedures specific to the island and mainland ports of entry, training in the care and use of biosecurity detection dogs and will gain an in-depth knowledge and understanding of Lord Howe Island biosecurity issues.
About You
You will be physically fit, self-motivated, resourceful and keen to join an experienced team committed to protecting the values of a World Heritage listed Property.
You will have a passion for the natural environment and preferably have a background in environmental management and biosecurity issues.
To be successful in this role you will -
• Have sound knowledge of biosecurity best practice and control of invasive species when applied to working on and protecting a remote island ecosystem.
• Display demonstrated experience in working with dogs and working independently in the field.
• Demonstrate an ability to manage your time and supervise field teams to deliver biosecurity programmes in complex semi-urban/ bush environments .
• Be collaborative and professional when working within a close-knit community and in a front line role with visitors to the island.
Essential Requirements
- Appropriate qualifications and knowledge of pesticide application and guidelines.
- Certificate IV in Government Investigations, or ability to successfully complete same.
- Current Class C NSW drivers’ licence.
- Capacity to acquire First Aid Certificate, firearms licence and Aviation Security Identity Card (ASIC) (and the ASIC associated security checks)
For more information read the full Role Description:
View the role description: Biosecurity Officer
Who we are
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) works to protect the state’s environment and heritage. It leads the way on climate change, driving the sustainable transition to a net zero economy, powered by affordable, reliable, and clean energy.
DCCEEW conserves and protects the state’s natural environment. It manages the NSW national park estate, including its rich and diverse biodiversity and Aboriginal cultural heritage for future generations.
DCCEEW also ensures sustainable management of water resources across the state, to support the environment, communities and industry.
We acknowledge the ongoing custodial responsibilities of the Aboriginal peoples of NSW to care for Country and water and are committed to establishing meaningful partnerships with Aboriginal peoples in the management of the environment.
Before you apply
Accommodation is extremely difficult to find on Lord Howe Island and no accommodation assistance can be provided to the successful applicant. Applicants must demonstrate secured accommodation at time of application. A range of policies apply to living on Lord Howe Island which can be reviewed here.
To Apply
We welcome your application, including a copy of your resume and cover letter expressing your interest and suitability for the role.
Please also note, to be eligible for an ongoing role in the NSW Public Sector you need to be an Australian Citizen, New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident. For temporary and casual roles, you need to hold a valid visa giving you permission to work in Australia as required by the role.
Applications close - Monday, 1 June 2026 at 11:55pm
Should you require further information about the role please contact Darryl Birch via darryl.birch@dcceew.nsw.gov.au
A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary opportunities of the same role or role type that may become available over the next 18 months.
Our goal is to build a workforce that not only represents but also understands and serves the diverse communities of New South Wales. We are committed to making our state a vibrant and inclusive place to live, work, and thrive for everyone. Our workforce represents people of all ages and genders, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disabilities, the LGBTQI+ community, and people from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
Looking for more information or assistance in applying?
If you require an adjustment for your application process, please contact our Talent Acquisition Team by emailing dcceew.ta@dpie.npws.gov.au or contacting Naz Keya via naz.keya@dcceew.nsw.gov.au (please mention reference number 548977).
If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander use our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for roles or our Aboriginal Career pathways team at AEX@dcceew.nsw.gov.au for a yarn. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), YouTube and LinkedIn.
Role Description
