About the role

As a Senior Biosecurity Inspector, you’ll lead a team of Biosecurity Inspectors and highly trained detector dogs to identify and prevent biosecurity risks across Tasmania. This includes supervising field operations in varied environments—airports, freight terminals, and other high-risk entry points—where dogs are used to detect prohibited items that could threaten Tasmania’s agriculture, environment, and public health.

• Lead and mentor dog handlers to meet performance and training standards.
• Conduct inspections of passengers, cargo and vehicles using detector dogs.
• Apply best practice dog-handling and welfare techniques.
• Contribute to enforcement and emergency response activities under State and Commonwealth legislation.
• Communicate with stakeholders and the public to promote biosecurity awareness.
• Ensure the health, safety and welfare of detector dogs and their facilities.

About us

The Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania (NRE Tas) is committed to our vision of “delivering a sustainable Tasmania” where our natural resources, cultural values and environment are recognised and used sustainably to support our future prosperity. We take pride in fostering a workplace where diversity is celebrated, inclusivity is embraced, and safety is paramount. 

We are committed to building a positive and proactive child safe culture to support child safety and wellbeing. We strive to create an environment where every individual feels respected, valued, and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work.

We understand that work-life balance is essential for personal and professional success. That’s why we offer flexible work options and are dedicated to making workplace adjustments that empower individuals to fully engage and excel in their roles.

Hours per fortnight

73.50 hours per fortnight (minimum 58.80 hours, by negotiation).

Pre-employment requirements

The Head of the State Service has determined that the person nominated for this position is to satisfy a pre-employment check before taking up the appointment, promotion or transfer.

The following checks are to be conducted:

1. Conviction check in the following conviction areas:

1. Crimes of violence
2. Sex related offences
3. Serious drug offences
4. Crimes involving dishonesty
5. Serious traffic offences
6. Any other offences under the Biosecurity Act 2019, or related legislation

Essential requirements

• A current unrestricted motor vehicle driver’s licence.

Desirable requirements

• A Certificate III or Certificate IV qualification in companion animal services, dog handling, government investigations or statutory compliance, or related discipline, relevant to the nature of the work to be undertaken, as provided by either a university, a vocational education organisation or a registered and accredited training provider.

Download the Statement of Duties and Advice Documents

 SOD - 707409 - Senior Biosecurity Inspector (Detector Dogs) - Band 4.docx

 Advice to Applicants.docx

How to apply

1. Review the Statement of Duties.
2. Click the "Apply now" button.
3. Complete the application form.
4. Upload your Short Form Application which is a 1-2 page covering letter outlining your experience, skills and knowledge as they relate to the Statement of Duties (please note that we do not require a separate statement addressing the selection criteria).
5. Attach a copy of your current Resumé/CV.

Refer to the Advice to Applicants document for further information.

If you are unable to submit your application online, please contact Recruitment via recruitment@nre.tas.gov.au.

If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.

For more information please contact:

Liam Harrex
Principal Biosecurity Officer
Email: liam.harrex@nre.tas.gov.au
Phone: (03) 6777 2162