Exciting permanent opportunity offering job security and competitive salary | Provide effective team leadership to the Clandestine Laboratories Group at Forensic Science Queensland to ensure the provision of an integrated, comprehensive, cost effective and quality forensic services in line with policies, guidelines and strategies | Located at Coopers Plains with free onsite parking

Job details

The role 

The Team Leader, Clandestine Laboratories (Clan Labs) will manage and lead the Clandestine Laboratory Group to ensure the provision of an integrated, comprehensive, cost effective and quality forensic service in line with the policies, guidelines and strategies of Forensic Chemistry, Forensic Science Queensland.

Providing effective and supportive leadership to a team of eleven and applying a strong focus on process improvements and timely service, you will also:

• Provide authoritative advice applying an expert level of knowledge, skills and experience in the area of Forensic Chemistry
• Operate as a statewide reference point for forensic advice and advocacy
• Independently apply forensic expertise and the use of established specialised techniques, to facilitate complex, critical discipline specific scientific decisions with minimal supervision
• Be accountable for provision of independent high level forensic services, based on work performed by others, to all key stakeholders incorporating the interpretation of results, laboratory developed methods and protocols and the provision of expert testimony on work performed within the laboratory in accordance with legislative requirements
• Effectively manage operations and resource allocation with respect to new and existing samples, to be processed within an agreed timeframe

Please review the attached role description for further responsibilities.

The successful person

You will demonstrate:

• Ability to successfully lead, manage and develop a diverse team within a high-pressure environment, providing operational management of a medium-sized chemical analysis professional team, including allocation of resources and performance reviews
• A collaborative and supportive approach with skills to mentor and train staff and develop and manage a professional, client focussed team.
• Specialist-level knowledge, expertise and skills in contemporary chemical analysis of clandestine laboratory investigations
• Knowledge, skills and ability to provide scientific leadership without supervision in the assessment and processing of clandestine laboratory sites and scientific testing and analysis of forensic items showing a level of both national and international awareness in the field
• Ability to provide quality advice and analytical services with regards to the assessment of clandestine laboratory sites and analysis of exhibits of a complex nature
• Effective interpersonal skills to communicate (both orally and in writing) and work successfully with staff and clients in regard to the assessment and processing of clandestine laboratory sites and in providing expert testimony to courts of law
• Commitment to the principles of quality management and continuous quality improvement and a contemporary knowledge of NATA/ISO Accreditation/Certification
• Experience in successfully leading, managing and developing a diverse team within a high-pressure environment.

About us

Located at Coopers Plains, Brisbane, FSQ operates specialised Forensic Biology, Forensic Chemistry and Forensic Operations functions that provides forensic services and expert advice to the Queensland Police Service (QPS) and the Coroner's Court of Queensland.

Our work at FSQ involves exposure to material related to deaths and criminal offences that may be confronting, due to its graphic and personal nature. Sensitive and professional management of exhibits and information is a critical requirement of this role. The successful candidate will have personal qualities that include well developed resilience, tact and effective strategies for managing themselves and their ability to support colleagues in situations that may be distressing and stressful.

Please note that following a Machinery of Government (MoG) change, as of 1 July 2024, Forensic Science Queensland was administratively assigned to the Department of Justice.

Benefits

• A fast-paced, challenging and supportive environment
• Competitive salary + generous superannuation and leave loading
• Flexible working arrangements
• Diverse work culture
• Career training and development

To apply for this exciting opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter (maximum 2 pages) outlining your skills and interest in this role.

Further information

We are committed to building inclusive cultures in the Queensland public sector that respect and promote human rights and diversity.

Applications will remain current for 12 months or for the duration of the vacancy. Future vacancies of a temporary, full time and part time nature may also be filled through this recruitment process.

Documents

Before applying for this vacancy please ensure you read the documents below.

• QLD650956 Team Leader Clan Labs HP5 FSQ Role Description (PDF, 245KB)
  Role Description
  
  FSQ DoJ Applicant Information Package (PDF, 492KB)
  Information Package for Applicants