Field Veterinary Officer (Intern)

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

About the opportunity

There is currently one (1), 24 month fixed term, full time position with the possibility of extension and/or permanency available for immediate filling.

Join DPIRD’s Veterinary Officer Development Intern Program, an exciting initiative supported by the recent Biosecurity funding boost! Dive into a fulfilling career at DPIRD, where you'll receive unparalleled support and mentorship. This program is suitable for early career vets, beginning with placement in regional offices alongside experienced officers, you'll thrive in a collaborative environment, honing your skills while contributing to emergency animal disease surveillance and preparedness. This two-year internship offers a unique opportunity to make a difference in regional communities. Start your adventure in Albany, then transition to smaller offices like Moora or Kununurra.

As a Veterinary Officer (Field Intern) you will apply your tertiary knowledge to safeguard our biosecurity and market access. You will work closely with experienced officers, contributing to vital surveillance, regulation, and emergency preparedness for WA's livestock and aquatic industries. Your role will also involve researching, advising on policy, and assisting in developing animal health plans.

We are looking for individuals with:   

• A passion for Animal Biosecurity and Welfare.
• A degree in Veterinary Science (obtained from an Australian university or recognised equivalent), and current recognised registration (or able to obtain before commencement) with the Veterinary Surgeons Board of Western Australia
• Knowledge and experience in production animal medicine, including how to investigate disease at an individual and herd/flock level.
• A "C" class drivers licence currently valid in Western Australia.
• Preferred candidate will have experience in production animal medicine.

For further information and special requirements for this role please see Job Description Form (JDF).

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

Apply on JobsWA by clicking the Apply button and attach the following to your application:

• A comprehensive CV that highlights your skills, experience, and achievements including details of two (2) referees.
• A cover letter of no more than two (2) pages in length demonstrating how your skills, knowledge and experience relate to the following Work-Related Requirement/s:
• Role Specific: 1, 2
• Core Capabilities: 4, 7
• Your cover letter should also include examples from your previous experience and achievements that demonstrate how your personal values align with the departments. For an overview of the department’s values, view the DPIRD Applicant Information Kit.

It is recommended that you consider all information contained in the advertisement and any other related information. All Work-Related Requirements will be assessed at some stage during the selection process.

Need further information?

For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact Robert Graham (robert.graham@dpird.wa.gov.au), Senior Field Veterinary Officer, on 0419 147 849 during office hours.

If you experience technical difficulties applying online, please contact the RAMS Helpdesk on 1300 733 056 in first instance. For further information about the recruitment process please contact our Employment team on (08) 6552 1943.

Employment Conditions and Additional Information

DPIRD is an Emergency Management Agency and all employees may be required to work or travel during, or outside of, normal business hours to assist with incidents and emergencies.

Am I eligible to apply?

To be eligible for a permanent appointment to the Western Australian public sector you must be an Australian citizen or have permanent residency status in Australia. To be eligible for a fixed term or a casual appointment you must have documentary evidence of your entitlement to live and work in Australia for the period as part of your application.

You will be required to provide a current National Police Certificate (police clearance) before commencing employment. If not currently held, this must be acquired prior to appointment at applicant’s expense. 

Should the successful applicant decline or vacate the advertised position, the panel may select another suitable applicant from this selection process.

The recruitment process may include online written assessments, psychometric, cognitive or other testing, job-related tasks, video or live stream interviews, documentation and reference checks or other assessment methodologies as required. We reserve the right to supplement the field of applicants via an executive search if required.

Please ensure you have plenty of time to submit your application to allow for unanticipated problems, as late and proforma applications will not be accepted.

(Please note: Online lodgement is system generated. Any submissions on or after 4:00pm on 14th July, 2025 will not be accepted)