Job description
Agency Department of Agriculture and Work unit Plant Biosecurity Branch – Biosecurity and
Fisheries Animal Welfare
Job title Senior Plant Biosecurity Officer Designation Technical 4
Job type Full time Duration Ongoing
Salary $89,637 - $98,223 Location Darwin
Position number 12969 RTF Closing 12/02/2026
Contact officer Nathan Crofts, Operations Manager, Plant Biosecurity on or
About the agency
Apply online
APPLICATIONS MUST INCLUDE A ONE-PAGE SUMMARY ABOUT YOU, A DETAILED RESUME AND COPIES OF
YOUR TERTIARY QUALIFICATIONS.
Information for applicants – inclusion and diversity and Special Measures recruitment plans
The NTPS values diversity. The NTPS encourages people from all diversity groups to apply for vacancies and accommodates
people with disability by making reasonable workplace adjustments. If you require an adjustment for the recruitment process or
job, please discuss this with the contact officer. For more information about applying for this position and the merit process, go
to the OCPE website.
Aboriginal applicants will be granted priority consideration for this vacancy. For more information on Special Measures plans, go
to the OCPE website.
Primary objective
Under the provision of the Plant Health Act 2008, the Hemp Industry Act 2019, and the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control
of Use) Act 2004, undertake quality assurance scheme auditing, compliance activities, Government certification and reporting duties
and surveillance to ensure continued and improved interstate market access for Northern Territory (NT) plants and plant products.
Key duties and responsibilities
1. Under the direction of the Operations Manager, effectively manage the daily operations of the Plant Biosecurity Branch relating
to application of the Plant Health Act 2008, the Hemp Industry Act 2019, and the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control of
Use) Act 2004.
1. Provide advice and support to personnel, the public and clients on matters pertaining to the Plant Health Act 2008, on
requirements for domestic trade and on agricultural chemical use.
1. Deliver targeted and general surveillance programs for exotic and selected plant pests and diseases (including bee diseases).
2. Source and evaluate complex information and suggest improvements to work tasks and business practices.
3. Record data and provide detailed reports on the surveillance and other programs as required.
4. Participate in biosecurity emergency responses to incursions of exotic plant, animal, or aquatic diseases or pests as required.
Selection criteria
Essential
1. Proven ability and experience to manage, lead and motivate a team to achieve required outcomes.
2. Demonstrated communication, negotiation and extension skills, both orally and in writing with Government and Industry
client/stakeholders and the public.
1. Knowledge and demonstrated experience in compliance including undertaking audits, reviews and/or investigations.
2. Support program management of projects related to plant biosecurity including oversight of financial and contract management.
3. Strong written communication, including the drafting of high-level correspondence, policy documents, operating procedures,
project reports and monthly reports.
1. Experience and skills in managing and collating data and preparing reports for national programs.
2. A current manual driver's licence and ability to conduct field work.
3. Qualified ICA Assurance Scheme auditor or Certificate IV in Government Investigations or ability to obtain.
Desirable
1. Knowledge of the plant biosecurity system.