Project Description

The Entry Level Professional Program offers:

  • a tailored program with an individual focus on agricultural research and analysis
  • access to excellent working conditions
  • a starting salary of approx $60,871 plus super

About us

The Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) is the research arm of the Australian Government Department of Agriculture and Water Resources.

Our mission is to provide professionally independent, world-class multi-disciplinary research, analysis and advice to inform decision makers within the department and other government departments, industry and private sector stakeholders on significant issues affecting Australia’s agriculture, fisheries, forestry and water sectors.

Read more about the Principles of ABARES research and analysis

How we make a difference

We deliver economic and scientific research and analysis that addresses the difficult policy issues facing Australia’s agriculture, fisheries, forestry and water policy sectors industries. We provide an evidence base for work across the department and broader government programs in areas including biosecurity, Australian farm productivity, drought policy, fisheries management, forest management and trade and market access. Our goal is to be decision makers’ first–choice provider of integrated scientific and economic advice on the agricultural, fisheries and forestry sectors.

Our staff have skills across a range of economic, science and social-science disciplines. These include skills in the areas of scientific and economic analysis and modelling, data (including survey) collection and statistical analysis, risk assessment and management, geographical mapping particularly in areas related to natural resource management, as well as commodity and market analysis.

Read in the ABARES 2015-16 Work program

An employer of choice

ABARES values professionalism, integrity, great minds and practical thinking. We offer rewarding working conditions and excellent remuneration. We encourage continuous learning and provide a wide range of development opportunities. As a valued employee, you’ll enjoy a rewarding work program, tailored to suit your skill set and career aspirations while meeting our program delivery needs. Your work will directly contribute to the evidence base for future policy development by the Commonwealth Government.

ABARES Entry Level Professional Program

At ABARES, your knowledge and skills will be developed as you are assigned to a team of highly experienced research economists, statisticians, applied mathematicians or scientists.

You will spend most of your first year with the same team and gain a clear understanding of, and insight into, the work area and ABARES more broadly, producing high-quality outcomes and deliverables and having the opportunity to establish solid working relationships.

With access to regular ABARES–specific seminars, you’ll be provided with expert information on particular challenges facing our portfolio industries, both locally and globally.

Participants in the program will also be expected to undertake a placement within another division of the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources for a short period. This placement will allow you to develop a broader understanding of the department and provide an opportunity to establish networks across the department.

Our entry level professional program also offers an individual focus on your learning and development, allowing you to make informed decisions about the rest of your career.

As a graduate in ABARES Entry Level Professional Program you will:

  • have a single work placement in an integrated research environment
  • undertake a six week project in another area of the department
  • participate in a range of formal and on the job training activities designed to guide your career and provide you with the tools to develop as and APS officer and as a valuable member of the ABARES team including:
    • Presentation skills workshop
    • ABARES specific seminars and conferences, including National Outlook and Regional Outlook
    • Discussion groups
    • Observing an ABARES farm surveys collection

ABARES–working together to make a difference–is it for you?

The work ABARES does plays an important role in the Australian community. Our people are highly skilled and qualified, and they feel valued. We are seeking like–minded professionals who are interested in working in an integrated research environment, to be part of the ABARES Entry Level Professional Program.

Eligibility

We are looking for individuals willing to relocate to Canberra (relocation assistance will be provided if applicable) who are graduates with an honours–level degree in economics or in the science disciplines of statistics, mathematics, modelling, spatial analyses, fisheries, forestry or ecological sciences. Postgraduate qualifications are highly desirable. Candidates with undergraduate qualifications, combined with relevant experience, and professionals who hold double degrees with strong economic and/or science content would also be well placed in the ABARES entry level program.

So whether you are a graduate or an experienced professional, consider ABARES as your next employer. We’re an organisation that works together for the benefit of the Australian public.

Further eligibility requirements apply.

Applications Open: 9.30am (AEST) Monday 21 March 2016

Applications Close: 2.00pm (AEST) Tuesday 3 May 2016

Reasonable Adjustment – Please note that applicants will have the opportunity to request any equipment or assistance necessary for participation in the selection process.

To apply for this program please visit the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources People and Jobs page or click on the link below.

Apply for ABARES Entry Level Professional Program