Senior Research Scientist - Climate Change Modeller

Department of Primary Industries and Regions; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 1 253 000 - 1 365 000; Full time

Job summary

A South Australian government agency is seeking a Senior Research Scientist specializing as a Climate Change Modeller. The role involves leading the development of climate-ocean models to evaluate environmental changes that affect harmful algal blooms. Candidates should hold a PhD in Marine Science or a related field, possess a Class C driver's license, and be ready for fieldwork. The position offers a competitive salary starting from $110,696 to $120,470 per annum, presenting significant career development opportunities within a forward-thinking team.

Benefits

Career progression opportunities

Learning and development flexibility

Qualifications

• Possession of a current Class C driver’s licence.
• Ability to undertake sampling from small research vessels.
• Willingness to work extended hours at sea.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of climate-ocean and ecosystem modelling frameworks.
• Assess long-term environmental change impacts on harmful algal blooms.
• Support strategic planning and adaptation across government and industry.

Skills

Marine Science

Climate Science

Environmental Modelling

Education

PhD in Marine Science or related discipline

Job description

Department of Primary Industries and Regions – West Beach SA

Job Type: Contract position | Full time position

Job Description

The Opportunity The Senior Research Scientist – Climate Change Modeller leads the development and application of climate–ocean and ecosystem modelling frameworks to assess how long‑term environmental change influences the frequency and intensity of harmful algal blooms in South Australian waters. The role links large‑scale climate drivers—such as marine heatwaves, ocean circulation, and changing current systems—to ecosystem risk, supporting strategic planning and adaptation across government and industry.

The Office of Algal Bloom Research The Office for Algal Bloom Research has recently been established within the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI), as South Australia’s central hub dedicated to the national integration of algal bloom science. This pioneering initiative strengthens South Australia’s capability to monitor, predict, and respond to harmful algal bloom (HAB) events.

It builds on SARDI’s scientific expertise and positions the state as a leader in algal bloom research and management.

We are seeking motivated, skilled, and suitably qualified professionals who are inspired to contribute to pioneering research and operational programs that protect marine ecosystems, aquaculture, and coastal communities.

About Us South Australia is internationally recognised for the quality of its agriculture, food, and wine. Our regions are the backbone of our state and the economic powerhouse that drives prosperity for all South Australians.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) is a key economic development agency working in partnership with our primary industries, regional stakeholders and across all levels of government to advance the prosperity and sustainability of South Australia’s primary industries and regional communities. We are a passionate team of around 800 people working across metropolitan and regional South Australia to develop and protect our state’s regions and food, wine, aquaculture, fisheries, forestry, grains, livestock, dairy and horticulture industries. It’s no wonder there are so many exciting and diverse career opportunities in our organisation.

If you’re ready to join us, apply now!

Benefits

At the Department of Primary Industries and Regions, we offer our employees challenging and rewarding work with opportunities for career progression, learning and development and flexibility.

Commitment to Diversity

The Department of Primary Industries and Regions is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We embrace diversity and welcome applications from all people, irrespective of culture, faith, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or age.

Conditions and Requirements

Successful applicant will be required to satisfactorily complete a National Police Check (NPC) prior to being made an offer of employment. Opportunity for up to two years.

Full time, 37.5 hours per week.

Requirements: possession of a current Class C driver’s licence and willingness to drive.

Ability and willingness to undertake sampling and experiments from small research vessels and industry partner vessels, including extended hours at sea. Out‑of‑hours work, and inter‑ and intra‑state travel may be required. The position is based at SARDI’s West Beach facility.

You acknowledge your work, health and safety obligations and our expectations when applying for a role. The incumbent will be required to undertake emergency management training and must be willing to participate in emergency preparedness, response and recovery activities required by government agencies. The incumbent will be required to contribute to whole‑of‑agency working groups developing PIRSA policy responses to significant and emerging issues as required.

Qualifications

Essential: A PhD in Marine Science or related discipline, oceanography, climate science, environmental modelling, or a closely related discipline.

Remuneration

PO4 – $110,696 min – $120,470 max per annum, plus superannuation.

Enquiries Simon Goldsworthy

Marine Ecosystems Program Leader Phone: [phone] Email: ***************@sa.gov.au

Website: www.pir.sa.gov.au or https://iworkfor.sa.gov.au/page.php?pageID=160&windowUID=0&AdvertID=886024#brs_jbcontent