DPI/DSE graduate program
Program | Graduate positions for 2010 | Recruitment process | Graduate profiles | FAQs
| The Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE), in conjunction with the Department of Primary Industries (DPI), offers a career development program to recent graduates in science, natural resource management, ecology, conservation and related fields. Registrations for the DPI/DSE graduate program are now closed. About our program The DPI/DSE graduate program is a two-year training and development program open to recent graduates of science, agriculture, natural resource management and related professions. During the program you'll undertake specific training and development activities alongside your normal project work. You will have the opportunity to work at two or more DPI locations around Victoria. The aim of this program is to provide you with broad exposure to policy, research and extension (where appropriate) in addition to gaining specialist skills and training, which will enable you to develop a supported career with us. |   |
Background
The DSE/DPI graduate program is now in its 16th year. More than 149 graduates have participated in the program and the variety of projects they've worked on has significantly contributed to the sustainable development of primary industries in Victoria. Graduate positions change each year depending on organisational needs. Read some profiles of past graduates to find out more.
In the past, DPI/DSE graduate program participants have worked on a variety of projects, including:
- community capacity building
- pest plants and animals policy
- regional compliance work
- landcare and community engagement
- biodiversity and land use planning.
Equally diverse are the specific roles our graduates have held over recent years, among those being:
- Native Vegetation Management Officer
- Natural and Built Resources Officer
- Fire Management Project Officer
- Water Policy Officer
- Sustainable Landscapes Project Officer
- Natural Resource Management Research and Development Project Officer.
- a personal training and development budget
- a mix of field and research work
- dedicated supervisors and ongoing career support
- positions change each year based on departmental strategic needs
- an ongoing position within us at the conclusion of the program.
Starting out
In February of each year a new intake of graduates embark on their two-year programs. As a new graduate you’ll attend a formal induction two to four weeks after you join the department. The induction is a chance for you to get to know your fellow graduates and to start working with your supervisor to plan the outcomes of your program.
You will have a coordinating supervisor and a location supervisor, both of whom will oversee your development in the program. The graduate program management team will also be on hand to guide you along.
Locations
As a graduate you may have three or more moves to different departmental locations throughout the state over your two year program. These locations usually include two regional and one metropolitan office, although this depends on your position. Obviously we choose locations that will provide the best opportunities for you to learn, but wherever you go you’ll be learning from experts in your field.
Supervisors
You will report directly to your location supervisor and work with the other members of your team on day to day matters. The coordinating supervisor will generally support your progress for the duration of the program. Both supervisors will work with you to develop detailed work plans that include opportunities for learning and development.
Learning and development
You will have access to our Learning and development program and will be encouraged to take courses in public speaking, scientific report writing, project evaluation, group leadership and facilitation, and adult learning. Supervisors identify relevant training that is built into your work plan and you will be able to apply your learnings to projects you're currently working on.
Budgets
You will be provided with an individual budget to manage and report on. This budget is provided to support relevant training and development opportunities. All our staff have the opportunity to take training during work hours and, if appropriate, post
Buddy
Your buddy is usually a graduate in the second year of their program working in a similar field to you. Buddies have the experience and knowledge to help you move through the program with ease, such as the established networks to facilitate communication and links throughout the department.
More information
For further information about our graduate program please call (03) 5624 2275 or (03) 92964724 or email Graduate.Program@dpi.vic.gov.au
To find out more about the DPI/DSE graduate program, read about the recruitment process or refer to our frequently asked questions.
For general enquiries about employment at DSE phone (03) 9637 8216.