Typical Career Progression
There are levels within each grade so a full remuneration range is shown.
| |
Position |
Remuneration |
Experience |
Education |
| Start Position |
Graduate Grade 1 |
$32,265 to $37,040 |
Gained as a student |
Degree |
| 1st Promotion |
Grade 2 |
$38,270 to $43, 668 |
2-3 years |
Degree |
| 2nd Promotion |
Grade 3 |
$50,175 to $60,900 |
4-6 years |
Degree |
| 3rd Promotion |
Grade 4 |
$62,100 to $70,000 |
7-9 years |
Post graduate qualifications |
| 4th Promotion |
Grade 5 |
$71,600 to $86,700 |
10-12 years |
Post graduate qualifications |
| 5th Promotion |
Grade 6 |
$87,900 to $102,770 |
13-15 years |
Post graduate qualifications |
| 6th Promotion |
Grade 7 |
$119,400 to $162,400 |
15+ years |
Post graduate qualifications |
Source: Victorian Public Service Award 2008
Typical Accountabilities & Responsibilities
| Graduate |
Assist with the carrying out of research programs such as collecting and analysing soil and plant samples, recording and interpreting experimental data. Work with animal and plant breeders to produce new strains, assist in the laboratory making cultures of animal and plant diseases. |
| Grade 2 |
Conduct research on the breeding, nutrition requirements and disease resistance of plants and animals. Provide information to farmers and commercial firms trading in agricultural goods. |
| Grade 3 |
May train and coordinate the work of field workers and technicians. Prepare funding applications and communicate the results of research |
| Grade 4 |
Manage a small department. Supervise and coordinate research teams. Still have contact with farmers as an advisor |
| Grade 5 |
Manage a large department. Be involved in preparing government policy advice and assist in putting it into practice. May be involved in research at a senior level such as being in charge of a research project. |
| Grade 6-7 |
Prepare government policy advice and assist in putting it into practice. May be involved in high level research in a university, lecturing and publishing. May be in charge of a government department. |
**The above table should be used as a guide only
Career path options and employment
Strong future jobs growth is expected for agricultural scientists and related areas such as forestry and soil professionals and park rangers, according to the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations’ Australian jobs 2007. The variety of specialisation combined with technology advances, the environmental push to be carbon neutral and the continued demand for local farm produce all come together to ensure your career will be sought after for many years to come.
About the Author
Nick Dudley - Department of Primary Industries
DPI science is well in the international spot light with its collaborative research partnerships placing a high priority on world class science. It conducts innovative, practical research to service the needs of primary industries, natural resource industries and the environment in Victoria.
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