Agricultural Economist Opportunities

Applications Close : 13 May 2025

Job Description

Agricultural Economist opportunities at the Department of Primary Industries & Regional Development

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) leads the sustainable development of Western Australia’s agrifood industry - agriculture, horticulture, aquaculture, food and fisheries sectors and regions. We protect, grow and support innovation in all these sectors and regions.

About the opportunities

Following a review of the Industry and Economic Analysis (IEA) branch succession plan, DPIRD is seeking to recruit a pool of economists within the IEA branch to fill permanent and fixed term positions of varying levels of seniority. Successful applicants will join a vibrant, collaborative environment in the WA public sector with inclusive values of dedication, diversity and long-term commitment to public sector and industry impact.   Our expectations are high, and the opportunity to do meaningful, relevant and credible economic analysis will be rewarding and significant. The branch contributes to DPIRD's strategic outcomes through providing economic services in policy development, regulation impact assessment, original research and public investment evaluation.

The IEA branch sits within DPIRD's Policy, Innovation, and Performance directorate, conducting economic modelling and data analysis, and providing timely, evidence-based analysis, policy advice and communications advice to internal and external clients.  These clients include WA Treasury, other state and federal agencies and industry groups.

We undertake economic analyses that yield insights that enhance productivity, profitability, international competitiveness, and the climate resilience and natural capital of WA’s primary industries and regions.  Our efforts ultimately support enduring prosperity for all Western Australians. We collaborate within and outside DPIRD, across a wide and diverse range of disciplinary groups including (but not limited to) plant and livestock scientists, biosecurity experts, fisheries specialists, soil scientists, treasury analysts, ecosystem managers, agribusiness food and trade staff.

We are seeking candidates with diverse analytical skills with good communication ability covering disciplines such as systems modelling, data analysis, economic appraisal techniques and optimization. 

The team draws on diverse datasets and research to form and underpin advice to internal and external clients.  Where necessary, bioeconomic models, simulations, system dynamics, and climate-economic models are employed to further explore issues and opportunities. Our analyses extend over different scales – from paddock to national impacts.  The successful candidates will also have sound skills in written and verbal communication.

Agricultural Economist (Specified Calling Level 1)

Under immediate guidance of senior staff, conduct assigned economic research, analysis and policy advice activities. Commensurate with level of appointment, work collaboratively with colleagues to achieve common goals and drive innovative solutions in agricultural research and development.  Contribute to the sustainability of resources and economic development of the agri-food industry with a focus on export led growth and/or maintenance/protection of productive agricultural systems/resources.

Agricultural Economist (Specified Calling Level 2)

Under general guidance and utilising independent judgement, conducts economic research, analysis and policy advice, as required.  Commensurate with level of appointment, work collaboratively with colleagues to achieve common goals and drive innovative solutions in agricultural research and development.  Contribute to the sustainability of resources and economic development of the agri-food industry with a focus on export led growth and/or maintenance/protection of productive agricultural systems/resources.

Agricultural Economist (Specified Calling Level 3)

Under limited direction and demonstrating considerable initiative and independent judgement, conducts economic research, analysis and policy advice, as required. Commensurate with level of appointment, work collaboratively with colleagues to achieve common goals and drive innovative solutions in agricultural research and development.  Contributes to the sustainability of resources and the economic development of the agri-food industry with a focus on export led growth and/or maintenance/ protection of productive agricultural systems/resources.

Required Skills

For more information about these roles, and to apply, click the APPLY NOW tab below.

Applications close: Tuesday 13 May 2025

For further details contact

Amir Abadi

Phone: 0448 879 757