Program Support Officer

• APS 4 - $80,371 - $87,496 per annum plus superannuation
• Biosecurity Plant and Science Services Division
• Cairns, QLD

• Support the Indigenous Rangers and Business Management Section with financial and general administrative tasks.
• Utilise your organisational and strong administration skills to support this high performing team.
• Work in a supportive and passionate team that values collaboration, continuous improvement and professional growth.

This position is an ‘Identified’ position which signifies that the role has a strong involvement in issues relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The successful applicant must have an understanding of the issues affecting Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people and an ability to communicate sensitively and effectively with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander People.

Why YOU are important to us and what impact will you have on the Biosecurity Plant and Science Services Division and the department's goal.
We protect Australia’s plant health to support trade, the economy and the environment. Our division provides scientific advice, diagnostics, biosecurity training and risk assessments. We enable safe plant imports, strengthen systems and engage stakeholders. Surveillance and response are conducted at national entry points and approved sites, including northern Australia. We work closely with communities and Indigenous rangers to manage biosecurity risks, including in the Torres Strait.

Our scientists are on the front line of biosecurity, leading early detection and response for pests, diseases and weeds at entry points and across northern Australia. We deliver diagnostics, inspections and training that help stop biosecurity threats before they spread. By working with stakeholders and sharing expertise, we strengthen Australia’s ability to protect its agriculture, environment and communities.

This is where you play an important role.
The Indigenous Rangers and Business Management Section engages Indigenous Ranger organisations on a fee for service basis to undertake biosecurity surveillance activities, whilst building biosecurity capability and providing economic opportunities for First Nations communities across northern Australia. You will support the fee for service contracts and the broader team by performing a range of financial and administrative functions.

Under direction, the duties of the role may include some or all of the following:

• Financial tasks including paying invoices, producing reports and supporting the preparation and monitoring of contracts with Indigenous organisations.
• Performing general administrative functions to a high standard and in a timely manner in accordance with procedures.
• Liaising effectively with internal and external stakeholders, including Indigenous ranger organisations and other suppliers, to achieve outcomes.
• Assisting with procurement initiatives and other projects from time to time.
• Producing accurate and timely correspondence and information
• Maintaining and monitoring databases and spreadsheets.
• Providing general administration support as directed.

Please note that the merit pool established through this selection process, which is valid for a period of eighteen months from the date the vacancy was advertised in the Public Service Gazette, may also be used to fill future ongoing vacancies in the branch where the duties are of a similar nature.

Who we are looking for
Knowledge and experience

• Previous experience working in an administration role that also included finance related duties.
• Experience using the Microsoft Office suite of software, in particular Excel.