Current Opportunities
This role will involve a mix of laboratory, glasshouse and field work. You will have a strong work ethic and enjoy working in the laboratory with a microscope one day and be happy to ‘get your hands dirty’ in hot and physical conditions in the field the next day. You work well in a team, have excellent attention to detail, be able to focus and have knowledge of plant pathology techniques and methods. It is essential that you have:
- Understanding of plant pathology and / or plant biology
- Experience in the use of molecular techniques including DNA extraction and qPCR
Applications close 1 October 2026
Ready to lead a unique production operation that plays a critical role in protecting South Australia's horticulture industry? At PIRSA’s Sterile Insect Technology (SITplus) Facility in Port Augusta, you will help produce and supply sterile Queensland fruit flies used to support outbreak responses and protect South Australia’s horticulture industry. This is a hands-on role in a complex biological production environment. As a Production Supervisor, you'll combine people leadership, operational coordination and quality oversight in a fast-paced environment where no two days are the same. Working within the Sterile Insect Technology (SITplus) Facility, you'll support production outcomes, develop staff capability and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives that make a real difference to South Australian industries.
You may come from insect production, agriculture, a laboratory, manufacturing or another high-volume operational environment. What matters most is your ability to supervise people, coordinate work and maintain quality when production pressures arise.
Read more on the SA Gov Jobs website
Applications close 6 October.
A fixed-term full-time opportunity available for a Technical Officer to join DPIRD’s crop innovation branch until 31 August 2027 with the possibility of extension and/or permanency. As the successful candidate in this role, you will work independently and also under the guidance of senior officers where necessary to carry out routine research activities, assist with experiments, and accurately collect and record research data. The position will also involve conducting trials in acid soils in regional locations across WA, with all work undertaken in accordance with established procedures, safety requirements and approved techniques. Reporting to the Research Scientist, you will gain hands-on experience across a range of research environments while contributing to practical and innovative agricultural outcomes.
Read more on the WA Jobs website
Applications close 8 October
The Senior Seed Analyst (Team Leader) delivers high-quality, accurate and timely International Seed Testing Association (ISTA) accredited seed testing services that support certification activities and the continued success of Tasmania's seed and agricultural industries. The ideal candidate has:
- Extensive experience in seed testing laboratory operations, including certification requirements, quality systems, laboratory safety and regulatory compliance.
- Strong knowledge of ISTA accreditation requirements and DAFF Approved Arrangement compliance.
- A strong understanding of seed certification, biosecurity principles, quality assurance processes, problem-solving and operational decision-making.
Read more on the TAS jobs website
Applications close 5 October.
The Biosecurity Program Coordinator delivers the Farm Biosecurity Program, which is delivered by AUSVEG in partnership with Plant Health Australia (PHA). This program aims to improve biosecurity preparedness and response mechanisms within the vegetable, potato and onion industries across Australia. The role will involve contributing to all aspects of the program including engaging with key project stakeholders, producing program communication outputs, organizing and presenting at industry focused workshops and delivering on all other project deliverables.
Applications close 25 October.
The Program Manager plays a central role in coordinating and managing all elements of the program, acting as the primary point of contact between partners, Hort Innovation, and industry stakeholders. VegWatch (VG22004) is a national program aimed at strengthening biosecurity preparedness and business continuity for the Australian vegetable industry funded through Hort Innovation. The program operates across three key themes: Surveillance and Diagnostics, Data and Informed Decision-Making, and Business Resilience and Continuity.
Applications close 25 October.
To advertise an opportunity on the NPBDN website, please contact us
Join our network
Everyone working in plant biosecurity diagnostics in Australian or New Zealand is encouraged to join NPBDN. Relevant disciplines include bacteriologists, botanists, entomologists, general plant pathologists, molecular biologists, mycologists, nematologists, phytoplasmologists, virologists and weed scientists.
Hear from diagnostics professionals
There are a number of different and exciting pathways in a plant biosecurity career.
