- Work in a world leading Antarctic Research Aquarium.
-
Get the opportunity to support research in Antarctica on RSV Nuyina.
-
Assist in the commissioning of the new Southern Ocean research aquarium.
Who we are
The Australian Antarctic Division (AAD) is part of the Commonwealth Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water. As primary agency for Australia's Antarctic Program (AAP), the AAD is responsible for achieving the Australian Government's Antarctic goals. These goals are to:
- Maintain the Antarctic Treaty System and enhance Australia's influence within it.
-
Protect the Antarctic environment.
-
Understand the role of Antarctica in the global climate system.
-
Undertake scientific work of practical, economic and national significance.
The AAD also has responsibility for administering the Australian Antarctic Territory and the Territory of Heard Island and McDonald Islands.
The AAD Science Branch leads, conducts and supports a world class program of scientific research and environmental management, consistent with national priorities through the Australian Antarctic Science Strategic Plan. The branch provides research and advice to support Australia’s Antarctic policy objectives, including participation in the Antarctic Treaty system and other international committees, commissions and intergovernmental panels. It manages and administers the Australian Antarctic Science Program (including project requests, assessment, and reporting) and provides scientific and research advice to support regulatory and management decisions. The branch provides scientific and technical advice for Antarctic capability projects, conducts impact assessments and develops strategies to address environmental legacies and undertakes targeted outreach promoting the value of Australian Antarctic science.
The Capabilities and Facilities section supports Southern Ocean and Antarctic research in the fields of aquaria, labs, engineering and marine science. Our diverse team manages lab facilities, cold store and scientific samples both on station and at AAD headquarters, marine science assets, compliance and regulatory requirements, and workshops that design and construct bespoke technical equipment and facilities for the AAP.
The job
The position will work at Kingston in the Marine Research Aquarium facility (aquarium) and at sea as required to support mobile containerised aquarium research facilities (containerised aquaria). The position will move to the new Southern Ocean research aquarium which is under construction in Taroona and will be completed in approximately 2 years. The position will report to the Science Support Technical Manager and work under direction from the Marine Research Aquarium Manager.
Key duties will include, but are not limited to:
- Support daily operations of the aquarium including:
- Day to day maintenance and husbandry of Antarctic krill and other livestock
-
Continual production of live algal cultures.
-
Maintain water filtration equipment.
-
Participate in the after-hours on-call roster.
-
Maintain records of all required inspections, maintenance, repairs and certifications; and
-
Contribute to the support of researchers/students.
- As required, assist in the forward planning, experimental set up and pre-voyage testing of containerised aquaria.
-
As required, participate in marine science voyages with responsibility for the technical configuration, operation, and maintenance of containerised aquaria whilst at sea and provide aquarium support to researchers and students working at sea.
-
Advise aquarium users on the safe set up and use of experimental systems in the aquarium and containerised aquaria.
-
Conduct regular quality and safety audits of the aquarium and containerised aquarium facilities.
What you'll gain from the experience
Unique work environment: The position provides an opportunity to support marine research in the Antarctic and Southern Ocean.
Professional growth: You will be part of scientific teams that are striving to understand the Antarctic Environment and Antarctica's role in the global climate system.
Supportive workplace: Join a team that celebrates diversity and has a positive workplace culture.
What we are looking for
We are seeking candidates who can demonstrate the following:
Knowledge and experience:
- Knowledge of the design and function of recirculating aquarium systems (experience with marine research systems is desirable).
-
Experience with operation, maintenance and troubleshooting of research or aquaculture aquarium systems, plant and equipment including process control software.
-
Experience working at sea for extended periods (supporting marine science voyages is desirable).
-
Knowledge of Work Health & Safety (WHS) and experience in maintaining a safe workplace for aquarium facilities.
-
Track record of working within biosecurity requirements (experience in Biosecurity Approved Arrangement premises is desirable) and complying with environmental responsibilities.
Skills and capabilities:
- Skills in marine invertebrate husbandry and handling in research or aquaculture aquarium systems (experience with Antarctic krill or other similar marine invertebrates is desirable).
-
Skills in maintaining algal and other live feed cultures.
-
Good laboratory skills, working within a lab environment and experience in maintenance and calibration of instrumentation for water quality analysis.
-
Ability to maintain data sets, analyse data and write technical reports relating to the operation of aquarium facilities.
-
Excellent verbal communication skills with the ability to build and manage relationships with internal and external stakeholders and suppliers
Please note that the successful applicant will be required to travel to the Antarctic and sub-Antarctic regions therefore they will be expected to meet specific medical, adaptability and personal qualities requirements appropriate to working in those environments.
They will need to:
- Demonstrate the range of personal qualities and interpersonal skills necessary to perform as a successful team member within isolated Antarctic and sub-Antarctic environments.
-
Demonstrate an ability to effectively adapt and respond to the demands of living and working in an isolated and confined environment as determined by a psychological (adaptability) assessment.
-
Be certified as fit for Antarctic service by the AAD’s Polar Medicine Unit.
Mandatory qualifications
- A degree from an Australian tertiary institution in a discipline of Aquaculture, or Science with a relevant major or Biology with a relevant major, or another equivalent discipline with a relevant major, or;
-
A degree in a relevant discipline from a comparable overseas institution, or;
-
Demonstrated equivalent work experience in a relevant field.
Additional requirements
- Hold a current Apply First Aid Certificate or have the ability to obtain this qualification.
-
Hold and maintain a valid Australian motor vehicle drivers licence.
-
Note that the position may require them to participate in an on-call roster (for which an appropriate restriction allowance will be paid) and be available to perform duty outside standard hours.
-
Note that you will be required, from time to time, to work in difficult, remote and harsh environments (possibly for extended periods) under limited supervision or in teams.
Eligibility
Citizenship - to be eligible for employment with the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water you must be an Australian citizen.
Security Clearance - this position requires a
Baseline Vetting security clearance. You will be required to obtain and maintain a clearance at this level.
Mandatory qualifications – your suitability for employment will be dependent on you holding relevant mandatory qualifications.
Pre-employment checks - your suitability for employment will be assessed through a pre-employment screening process. This process includes a requirement to undergo and satisfy a National Police Check, referee checks, character clearance and where required a pre-employment medical assessment, specified mandatory qualification(s) validation and a probation period.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) in recruitment
You may use AI tools to support your participation in this recruitment process, unless advised otherwise. If you use AI, you must ensure your use is transparent, authentic and truthful, and that all information reflects your own skills and experience.
The department may use AI in a limited, transparent and responsible way to support parts of this recruitment process. AI does not make decisions - all assessments and selection outcomes are made by people.
For more information, see:
- Artificial Intelligence Transparency Statement
-
AI in recruitment | Australian Public Service Commission
