About Graduate program

Geoscience Australia

Geoscience Australia is the trusted advisor for Earth sciences, informing government, communities, and industry with evidence-based decisions. Our research and advice span the unique Australian landscape, our vast marine territories, the frozen frontiers of Antarctica and geologic observation from space.

Our Graduate Program offers you the opportunity to engage in a diverse environment. Applying the skills cultivated during your studies to make a positive contribution that directly impacts the community and the nation.

We offer a highly customisable Graduate Program that is specific to your learning needs and aligned to your skills and career aspirations. You will start the program in your home placement area, building lasting professional relationships with your team and stakeholders. You will then undertake three rotations in diverse science areas to expand your skills and experience for a successful career in the Australian Public Service (APS).

Our graduates have access to unparalleled on-the-job learning opportunities, ranging from involvement in research field trips in rural and regional Australia to collaborative excursions with our partner organisations. Our Chief Scientist also hosts monthly workshops exclusively for graduates, creating an environment that nurtures scientific excellence and professional growth.

We offer a competitive salary and ongoing employment upon successful completion of our Graduate Program:

• Commence your journey with a starting salary of $72,897, as an APS4 graduate, plus 15.4% superannuation.
• Progress to an ongoing APS5 position upon the successful completion of the graduate program, with an annual salary of $84,286, plus 15.4% superannuation.

Be part of our progressive and inclusive culture:

• An award-winning organisational culture dedicated to fostering diversity, equity and belonging.
• Progressive flexible working arrangements and generous leave entitlements.

Gain access to industry-leading development opportunities:

• A structured 12-month program featuring three rotations in various scientific areas across the organisation or with our external partners.
• Ongoing support for your studies and professional growth, including an attractive study assistance and scholarship program.
• A comprehensive learning and development approach providing targeted on the job learning, mentorship, buddies, online learning and regular workshops with our Graduate Sponsor and Chief Scientist.
• Home to world class resources and facilities, including the National Mineral and Fossil Collection.

Enjoy working in a vibrant cultural hub:

• Located in Canberra, the Nation’s Capital, where government, industry and academia meet. Canberra is home to many National Cultural institutions, surrounded by urban hubs such as Braddon, New Acton or the Kingston Foreshore, all amidst the backdrop of the national parks and conveniently close to remarkable destinations just a short drive away.
• Enjoy the free onsite parking and gym facilities.

We are looking for applicants with graduate or postgraduate qualifications in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM), Digital or Data. We strongly encourage applicants who have completed study in one or more of the following areas:

• geology
• geodesy
• geophysics
• seismology
• spatial analysis
• software engineering
• cloud computing.

In addition to tertiary qualifications, we’re looking for people with:

• curious minds to pursue excellence in science and innovation
• communication skills that can tell the story to their stakeholders
• resilience to adapt and see things through to the end
• enthusiasm to make an impact as part of the APS
• respect and integrity to contribute to our inclusive culture
• data and digital literacy

Do you think you could add value to Geoscience Australia but don’t meet all our desirable skills and attributes? We still want to hear from you!

We know our work has the greatest impact when it is informed by diverse experiences and perspectives, so we strongly encourage you to apply if you are a woman with a STEM qualification, are gender diverse, have a disability or are part of the Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander community. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive workplace where everyone has equal opportunity to thrive.

Eligibility

To be eligible for our Graduate Program you must:

• be able to obtain and maintain a Baseline level security clearance or hold a current security clearance of an appropriate level.
• satisfy a police history check prior to commencement of employment.
• be an Australian citizen at the closing date of application.
• have completed an undergraduate or postgraduate degree by February 2025, or within the last four years.
• live and work in Canberra (Geoscience Australia will support with relocation costs, where required).