The Bee Biosecurity Officer (BBO) performs a key role within Agriculture Victoria's apiary team. The BBO will deliver education on bee pests and disease, with a particular emphasis on Varroa mite management to commercial and recreational beekeepers. You will assist in equipping beekeepers with the skills and capability to effectively manage Varroa mite as a widespread bee pest.
The position will be required to build beekeeper capability to manage bee pest and diseases through a mixture of direct one on one engagement, group-based activities and written communications. You will work alongside other Bee Biosecurity Officers and apiary staff in a broader team environment that has a focus on bee biosecurity. This will involve attendance at bee club/association meetings and conferences, field days, and other events to promote the most recent version of the Australian Honey Bee Industry Biosecurity Code of Practice.
The role will focus on actively engaging with beekeepers around hive health and gather relevant information to refine the best management recommendations for Varroa mite based on enterprise differences. It will also actively participate in the development of emergency response preparedness activities for exotic bee pests and diseases, including the State Quarantine Response Team program.
You will be energetic, thoughtful and have enthusiasm for working closely with both internal staff and various external stakeholders associated with the beekeeping industry to deliver quality services to the Victorian community.
Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications
* Comprehensive understanding of the Victorian honey bee and pollination industries including the range of biosecurity threats.
* Proven ability in delivery of training and awareness programs for the honey bee industry, including the ability to deliver education and training programs, incorporating adult learning principles.
* Demonstrated experience in the management of best practice bee biosecurity in commercial/semi-commercial apiaries, including disease surveillance and management with particular emphasis on Varroa mite.
There are two ongoing positions available. The work location for this position is negotiable between Attwood, Bendigo or Wodonga with hybrid work arrangements available.
To be considered for this position, applicants are encouraged to submit a resume and cover letter (no longer than 2 pages) summarising their skills and relevant experience. In particular, please address the following:
* Demonstrate your comprehensive understanding of the Victorian honey bee and pollination industries, including the broad range of biosecurity threats as they start to adapt to living with Varroa mite.
* Outline your ability to design and deliver beekeeper engagement and training programs for the apiculture industry on bee pests and diseases, including the ability to incorporate adult learning principles.
* Demonstrate your experience in the management of best practice bee biosecurity in commercial/semi-commercial apiaries, including pest and disease surveillance and management.
* Provide concrete examples of your ability to work as part of a broader team and communicate effectively with a wide range of clients, often on business-sensitive information.
Please refer to the Key Selection Criteria provided in the Position Description, including the mandatory requirements.
How to Apply:
Please apply via DEECA Careers.
Applications close 11.59pm on Sunday, 04 January 2026.
All applications must be submitted through the online portal. We are unable to consider email or manual applications at this time.
Other relevant information:
Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form.
To be eligible for appointment to this role, applicants will possess corresponding work rights for the advertised employment period. Appointment to an ongoing position is only available to an Australian/New Zealand citizen or an Australian Permanent Resident.
A Diverse, Inclusive and Flexible Workplace
DEECA welcomes applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds and we focus on the essential requirements of the job and being consistent and fair in our treatment of all applicants. We also understand that a balanced life is important to our employees. Talk to us about our flexible options such as working some days from home, starting early or late, working part time, job sharing or accessing paid or unpaid leave. For more information visit applying for a role with us.