THE CLIENT
The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) is the Australian Government's independent regulator of AgVet chemicals. Their work protects the health and safety of people, animals and the environment, and supports Australia's primary industries, biosecurity, and international trade.
In accordance with the agvet legislative framework, the APVMA regulates pesticides, veterinary medicines, and a wide range of chemical products—from farm chemicals through to household items such as insect repellents and garden products. As a science-driven regulator, the APVMA ensures that decisions are based on robust evidence and contemporary scientific standards and are in accordance with statutory requirements.
ABOUT THE ROLE
This is an outstanding opportunity to join the Science and Assurance Branch as an Assistant Director – Environment (EL1). In this role, you will contribute to the APVMA's post-market regulatory functions by providing high-level scientific assessments and leadership across environmental matters.
You will commission and peer-review environmental assessments, contribute to chemical review outcomes, develop and maintain technical guidance materials, and provide specialist advice to internal teams and external stakeholders.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Key responsibilities could include:
* Managing projects and providing technical advice on the post-market assessments of environmental matters relating to the regulation of agricultural chemicals, veterinary medicines and other chemicals to internal and external stakeholders.
* Providing input to the development and implementation of strategies, operational policies, priorities and work practices for the S&A Branch to achieve results in line with APVMA operational goals.
* Assisting in making regulatory decisions in accordance with legislation and delegations.
* Developing and maintaining guidance materials for technical assessments and methodologies.
* Managing staff in the Science Assessments - Environment section as required.
* Using project management and efficient workflow and related practices to provide timely inputs to the work of the section.
* Preparing high level written materials incorporating scientific/technical considerations to contribute to briefs to decision makers, correspondence and other corporate documents as required.
* Undertaking special projects related to environmental safety under the direction of the Director - Environment or Executive Director, S&A Branch.
SELECTION CRITERIA
Essential
1. Appropriate tertiary qualifications and/or experience relevant to environmental toxicology, environmental chemistry or related exposure assessment.
2. Demonstrated knowledge of the regulatory framework in which the APVMA operates in assessment of agricultural and veterinary (agvet) chemicals, and experience of the use of agvet chemicals in the context of Good Agricultural and Veterinary Practices.
3. Demonstrated experience in developing and maintaining guidance materials for technical assessment processes and procedures, and engaging with domestic and international stakeholders regarding their interpretation and application.
4. High level communication skills, including the ability to prepare documents and reports, ability to communicate clearly and confidently with staff, internal and external stakeholders, and to represent the APVMA in a variety of forums.
5. Well-developed analytical and problem-solving skills, with proven ability to evaluate, provide pragmatic advice and propose regulatory decisions on complex information in both data-rich and data-poor environments.
6. Demonstrated ability to work in a team environment using effective interpersonal skills, and balance workflows and prioritise workloads / tasks to deliver high quality outcomes in a timely manner.
Desirable:
Postgraduate qualifications in environmental toxicology, environmental chemistry or related sciences.
ELIGIBILITY
Australian citizens and permanent residents of Australia can apply.
HOW TO APPLY
To apply, please click the "Apply" button and submit the following:
* One document containing your one-page cover letter outlining your interest in the position and your response to the six selection criteria. Your response to the selection criteria must not exceed 1000 words.
* A current resume, including your contact details, outlining your experience, achievements and capabilities relevant to the responsibilities of this role.
CONTACT
To receive the Candidate Information Pack and/or to have a confidential discussion about this role, you can call Renee on or Helen on Alternatively,please send a text to organise a suitable time to discuss your application. If you would like to enquire electronically, please email
Applications close on 19 December 2025 at 12:00 Midnight AEST.