The Manager, Surveillance, Trade and Traceability is responsible for leading programs that underpin Victoria's plant biosecurity system, with a focus on surveillance, traceability, and market access. Operating within a technical and policy-focused branch, this role oversees the delivery of plant pest surveillance programs to support early detection and validate area freedom, trade and market access programs, together with facilitating the development of plant property identification.
The role leads the development and implementation of domestic market access arrangements, contributes to national and state trade policy, and negotiates trade conditions that support the movement of plant products. It also oversees pest risk assessments and seeks to drive innovation across the portfolio.
Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications
Essential
* Proven experience in plant pest surveillance, traceability, and market access, with a strong understanding of biosecurity systems and trade policy frameworks.
* Demonstrated experience in leading programs with a strong collaboration and stakeholder engagement mindset, effectively negotiating outcomes, and providing strategic direction on plant biosecurity programs and policies.
* Demonstrated experience in applying sound scientific knowledge in analysing, determining and assessing risks associated with plant pests and produce movement pathways, driving the establishment of appropriate risk mitigation specifications or surveillance targets.
* Experience and understanding of domestic trade programs and policies, and the implementation of appropriate, nationally aligned, least trade-restrictive trade conditions.
* Demonstrated experience with stakeholder engagement, with preferred experience with using engagement to enhance the management of established pests within plant industries, utilising highly developed written and verbal communication skills.
Desirable
* An appropriate qualification in agriculture or related science degree is desirable for this position.
This is an ongoing position. The work location for this position is Flexible within Victoria, with preference for Attwood 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.
Please refer to the Key Selection Criteria provided in the Position Description, including the mandatory requirements.
How to Apply:
If you are a current DEECA employee, please apply via DEECA Careers.
Applications close 11.59pm on Sunday, 18 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:
If you are current DEECA employee, employed on an ongoing, fixed term or casual basis you are eligible to apply for this role. People on labour hire contracts, such as agency staff and contractors, are not eligible to apply.
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.