Description

Senior Professional Officer 2 - Remuneration Package Range $179,451 - $195,425
(including salary $152,751 - $166,487)
Berrimah Veterinary Laboratory – Biosecurity and Animal Welfare
Darwin
One full time ongoing vacancy is available

Lead Northern Australia's premier government veterinary diagnostic laboratory driving biosecurity, animal health and scientific excellence.

The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) supports the growth, sustainability and biosecurity of the Northern Territory's agriculture and fisheries sectors through scientific research, strong biosecurity practices and animal welfare programs. Within the department, Berrimah Veterinary Laboratory is Northern Australia's government veterinary diagnostic laboratory and a cornerstone of the Territory's biosecurity capability. The laboratory delivers nationally accredited diagnostic, surveillance, certification and research services that support animal health, emergency disease preparedness and response, and market access for the livestock and aquaculture industries. Through its specialist expertise and participation in national biosecurity networks, Berrimah Veterinary Laboratory plays a critical role in protecting the Territory's primary industries and strengthening Australia's biosecurity preparedness.

As the Director Berrimah Veterinary Laboratory, your primary objective will be to lead Northern Australia's government veterinary diagnostic laboratory, ensuring the delivery of high-quality diagnostic, certification and research services that support animal health, biosecurity, disease surveillance and emergency response activities. You will provide authoritative veterinary laboratory advice to government and industry, while driving scientific excellence, innovation and accreditation standards that protect the Northern Territory's agriculture and aquaculture industries and support market access outcomes

Your core responsibilities will include leading the operations and strategic direction of Berrimah Veterinary Laboratory, ensuring the delivery of high-quality diagnostic, certification and research services that support animal health, biosecurity and trade outcomes. You will provide authoritative advice to government and industry stakeholders, represent the Northern Territory on national and international laboratory and biosecurity forums, foster collaborative research partnerships, and oversee laboratory quality systems, operational performance, procurement and budget management. The role also plays a key part in strengthening emergency animal disease preparedness and supporting biosecurity responses across the Territory.

To be successful, you will hold a degree in Veterinary Science that is registrable in the Northern Territory, or an equivalent qualification recognised in Australia, together with a postgraduate qualification in a relevant laboratory discipline. You will bring extensive experience in veterinary diagnostic laboratories, including specialist expertise in veterinary diagnostics, laboratory quality systems and accreditation standards. Your proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, manage collaborative research programs and build effective partnerships across government, industry and research organisations will be key to your success. Experience supporting animal health surveillance, biosecurity preparedness and trade certification programs will be highly regarded. Prior exposure to Public Sector Management will also be viewed favourably.

In return for your contributions, you will be rewarded with a competitive remuneration package inclusive of 12% superannuation, 6 weeks recreational and 3 weeks personal leave, 17.5% annual leave loading, 3 day paid shutdown over Christmas, negotiable flexible work arrangements, assistance with relocation costs, and an opportunity to experience the uniqueness of living in the Northern Territory.

If you're not currently living in the Northern Territory, now might be the perfect moment to think about relocating to Darwin. 

Experience a lifestyle that offers a harmonious blend of work and leisure, giving you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes, tropical sunsets, and mesmerising lightning shows that the Territory has to offer. 

Darwin's diverse multicultural environment and strong community bonds create an ideal setting for both living and enjoying recreational activities. During the interview process, relocation support and adaptable work arrangements can be explored further.

Explore DAF:
https://daf.nt.gov.au

Explore the Territory:
https://jointheterritory.nt.gov.au/
https://jointheterritory.nt.gov.au/work/work-for-nt-government

Explore living in the Territory:
https://jointheterritory.nt.gov.au/live 
https://jointheterritory.nt.gov.au/move/regional-living-guides/darwin-and-surrounds
For further information about this vacancy please contact: 
Sue Fitzpatrick on 08 8999 2054 or [email protected]

Quote vacancy number: 12632
Closing date: 16/08/2026

Applications should consist of a one page summary sheet, resume / CV and copies of relevant qualifications.

For a copy of the Job Description or to view career opportunities in the Northern Territory Government please visit https://jobs.nt.gov.au/Home/Search