The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) leads the sustainable development of Western Australia’s regions and agriculture, aquaculture, food and fisheries sectors. In everything we do, our approach is to protect, grow and innovate WA’s economy, community and environment.

Be part of a team making a difference to state and regional development outcomes

Provide leadership and input to progress the Ord River Irrigation Area expansion and other critical initiatives

Provide advice, input and support on other DPIRD-led development projects

Join a flexible and progressive agency with a passion for sustainable development and delivering regional outcomes

If you work well in a team and have a desire to live, work in and make a difference to the sustainability of the Kimberley region then this may be the opportunity for you

About the opportunities

There are currently two (2) permanent, full-time Level 7 positions available for immediate filling. The positions will be located in Kununurra. Other locations will be considered.

Project Manager (Development)

This is a unique and exciting opportunity to manage the delivery of strategic and complex projects relating to development of the Ord River Irrigation Area (ORIA) in the East Kimberley region of Western Australia.

The ORIA is a progressive part of the state with significant natural advantages and potential. This position will manage delivery of expansion and development projects and activities in support of industry, regional and Traditional Owner outcomes in the East Kimberley.

You may also be called on to assist with other projects that advance Department and Government objectives and lead in the development of new initiatives that support regional development and investment across northern Western Australia. Providing essential advocacy, facilitation, and policy input to deliver impactful regional business development outcomes is an important part of the role.

We are looking for someone who is highly organised, who can lead and manage complex projects, has well-developed stakeholder engagement skills, and a passion for regional development.

Project Manager (Environmental)

This opportunity is suited to an experienced, motivated and environmentally-focused Project Manager who will lead projects to implement the WA Government’s ORIA expansion initiative.

You will coordinate and deliver projects, tasks and environmental compliance assessments and reporting to meet state and Australian Government environmental approval and monitoring obligations and provide recommendations for action.

You will manage environmental research projects and work with specialist consultants, evaluate policies and procedures and provide recommendations for action while preparing reports, submissions, briefings, correspondence and advice. You will manage at least one member of staff.

We are looking for someone who is highly organised, enthusiastic and experienced in environmental matters and with significant knowledge and experience in state and federal environmental regulation and approval. You will help manage the Department’s obligations for the Ord Expansion, and other projects where required, to deliver sustainable development in support of government and Department objectives.

Knowledge of agricultural, pastoral and/or horticultural production processes would be highly regarded.

We are looking for individuals with:

Substantial experience in complex project management including the ability to lead, manage, take the initiative, and deliver agreed outcomes within specified timeframes.

An ability to work within a team and lead on dedicated work components.

Highly developed communication, negotiation, and facilitation skills given stakeholder management is a core function of this role.

Highly developed problem-solving abilities and the capacity to think laterally to develop innovative solutions.

An ability to write reports and other documents to a high standard, alongside base experience in governance and financial reporting.

A knowledge of agricultural functions, especially horticulture and irrigated systems.

Experience, preferably, working alongside progressive Traditional Owner groups

For further information and special requirements for these roles please see attached Job Description Form (JDFs).

Equity and Diversity

At DPIRD we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce and are an equal opportunity employer. We value and strongly encourage people with disabilities, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, young people, women and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to apply for positions within our agency.

How to Apply

All applications must be made through the Jobs WA website.

Need further information?

For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact Gordon Verrall, Director Northern Agricultural Development, on 0428 721 178 during office hours.