Department of Primary Industries and Regions
Job reference:******
Location:**** - ADELAIDE
Job status:Short Term Contract
Eligibility:Open to EveryoneThe Opportunity
PIRSA is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to support the delivery of South Australia's emergency animal disease preparedness and response capability.
This is an opportunity to lead the operational function within the HPAI Response Program, coordinating response activities, resources and operational planning in partnership with technical specialists, government agencies and industry stakeholders.
The role will play a key part in translating response strategies into effective operational outcomes that protect animal health, support primary industries and strengthen South Australia's biosecurity systems.
How You'll Make a Difference
As the Operations Manager, you will:
Lead the Operations function within the HPAI Response Program's Incident Management Team (IMT), supporting preparedness, response and recovery activities and ensuring operational outcomes align with program plans and strategic goals.
Coordinate and manage human and physical resources, optimise workflows and oversee operational activities to deliver the objectives of the HPAI Response Program.
Provide leadership to operational teams, fostering a cohesive team environment, building capability and ensuring the delivery of high-quality and responsive services.
Implement the Program's Plans by assigning tasks, deploying resources, monitoring activities and consulting on operational changes to support effective program delivery.
Monitor and communicate program progress, including emerging risks, resourcing status, operational expenditure and operational performance, to support informed decision-making.
Build and maintain effective relationships with contractors, industry, local government, affected communities and other key stakeholders to ensure coordinated and effective operational outcomes.
About You
You will bring:
Experience in emergency operations management, incident management or a comparable operational leadership role, with the ability to coordinate complex activities and resources.
Robust leadership skills, with the ability to provide leadership, direction and support to operational teams and team leaders, maintaining capability, motivation and alignment to program objectives.




Demonstrated ability to analyse complex problems and produce practical solutions with clear priorities in dynamic and changing environments.
Experience contributing to planning, developing operational approaches that support organisational priorities, and translating strategic direction into practical actions.
Highly developed communication, interpersonal, negotiation and conflict resolution skills, with the ability to engage effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders.
Knowledge of incident management systems, WHS and risk management processes, with experience building effective relationships across government, industry and community stakeholders highly regarded.
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.
Our 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.
Special Conditions
Successful applicant will be required to satisfactorily complete a National Police Check (NPC) prior to being made an offer of employment.
12-month opportunity available.
Full-time, 37.5 hours per week
Requirements
Possession of a current driver's license and willingness to drive.
Out of hours work and inter / intrastate travel may be required.
Australian residency or current works permit is required (responsibility of applicant to provide evidence of a current work permit).
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.
PIRSA works under the South Australian government's Protective Security framework.
By applying for this role, you consent to obtaining and being screened under the process of a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (NCCHC).
Remuneration
ASO7 - $116,089 min - $125,490 max per annum, plus superannuation
Enquiries
Georgie CornishExecutive Director, Biosecurity
Phone: ************
Email: ******
Application Instructions
All applications must be submitted online.
If you are interested in this opportunity, please see the attached applicant instructions, and outline your skills and experience in relation to the Professional and Technical Knowledge, People Management and Strategic Focus capabilities of the attached role description.
Applicants must include the contact information of at least 2 referees with 1 being your immediate supervisor/manager and a completed "Pre-Employment Declaration in the SA Public Sector" form.
Applications close:24/08/2026 6:00 PMAttachments:
- Application Guidelines#5.pdf
- Pre-Employment-Declaration_******.pdf
- Role Description - ASO7 Operations Manager - HPAI Response Program.pdf
Flexibility Statement
The South Australian public sector promotes diversity and flexible ways of working including part-time.
Applicants are encouraged to discuss the flexible working arrangements for this role.

📌 Operations Manager (Adelaide)
🏢 Department of Primary Industries & Regions
📍 Adelaide