We are seeking a competent Scientist for a fixed term contract for 12 months full time. As a scientist in the Microbiology/Serology/Molecular departments, assist in the provision of an effective and efficient pathology service to clients of the Cairns region and surrounding districts.

Job details

The position requires scientists to rotate within all sections of the Microbiology/Serology/Molecular departments following appropriate training and subject to operational requirements.

Key competencies (role specific criteria)

You will be assessed on your ability to demonstrate the following:

• Apply independent scientific judgement in the analysis of patient specimens leading to the verification and validation of test results and the provision of advice to the clinical unit where appropriate.
• Undertake diagnostic testing and related duties, following Pathology Queensland established accredited protocols and standards within a single or multidisciplinary team in accordance with prescribed professional and ethical standards
• Provide input in the development of scientific practices, procedures and protocols within the work area.
• Participate in quality and service improvement activities to continually improve patient care.
• Actively participate in the Microbiology/Serology/Molecular team
• Actively participate in operational requirements of the laboratory with participation as required on shift rosters providing 7 days per week service delivery. This will include evening shifts as well as weekend shifts. You also may be required to participate in a 24-hour roster and become multi-skilled at some future time.
• Develop scientific knowledge and expertise through active learning within the team and by engaging in professional development activities.
• Work cooperatively and communicate effectively within the team and with clients, both internal and external to the laboratory.
• Commensurate with level of experience provide scientific training and supervision for less experienced scientific and operational staff.
• Provide direction to assistant and support staff, including undergraduate, operational and administrative staff.
• Demonstrated knowledge, expertise and skill in the delivery of scientific judgement within the various disciplines of the Microbiology/Serology/Molecular departments.
• Demonstrated ability to participate in a single-discipline or multidisciplinary team and contribute a range of diagnostic skills relevant to the discipline.
• Demonstrated ability to apply established principles to Microbiology/Serology/Molecular departments with provision of results and clinical advice in a client focused manner.
• Demonstrated ability to identify, develop and implement quality and service improvement activities in accordance with NATA/ISO accreditation / certification.

Qualifications, registrations and other requirements

• The successful applicant must hold at least a tertiary degree qualification in Medical Laboratory Science (or equivalent) from a recognised university or tertiary institution or be completing the required degree with graduation expected within three months of the application closing date.
• Appointment to this position requires proof of qualification and registration or membership with the appropriate registration authority or association. Certified copies of the required information must be provided to the appropriate supervisor/ manager, prior to the commencement of clinical duties.
• Queensland Health staff are required to participate in 24-hour shift, on-call or weekend roster arrangements.
• Applicants will be required to work over night, afternoon, weekend and Public Holiday shifts.
• All newly appointed staff are contracted to work any rostered shift within the 24-hour 7-day roster period, including overtime as required. This facilitates the progressive review of staffing and shift arrangements across the organisation to accommodate changes in workload and service requirements.

Professional development

• Career progression with more than 300 diverse career pathways and career support to take you further!
• Access to a variety of programs and initiatives to support training and career growth.
• Grow your skills through hands-on experience and access to internal training opportunities and additional financial and leave benefits for approved external training and development.

Further information

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

Documents

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

• Applicant Pack - July 2025 (PDF, 911KB)
  Information Package for Applicants
  
  QPHASS646354 Scientist PQ (PDF, 195KB)
  Role Description