Science Leader – Chemistry Centre
Provide strategic and operational leadership of the Chemistry Centre within the Soil & Catchment Science unit, managing its NATA-accredited laboratory, staff, and resources. Deliver high-quality, innovative, and client-focused analytical services that support environmental monitoring, research, and Queensland Government priorities.
Act as a trusted scientific advisor, driving continuous improvement and building strong partnerships with government, industry, and research institutions to advance nationally recognised laboratory and science programs.

Job details

As the Science Leader, you will provide strategic and operational leadership of the Chemistry Centre within the Soil & Catchment Science unit, ensuring delivery of high-quality, NATA-accredited analytical services that support Queensland Government priorities, applied science programs, regulatory requirements, and research outcomes.

You will lead a multidisciplinary laboratory team, fostering a high-performing, respectful workplace culture that values professional excellence, collaboration, adaptability, and open communication. You will optimise team structures and workflows to deliver complex analytical services and multidisciplinary science projects efficiently, achieving agreed performance and revenue targets.

You will maintain and apply advanced scientific, technical, and professional expertise, using contemporary analytical methods, quality systems, and emerging technologies to address current and emerging challenges. You will oversee workforce planning, capability development, performance management, training, and workplace health and safety obligations.

You will manage human, financial, and physical resources, including budgets, assets, intellectual property, and laboratory infrastructure, in line with legislative and governance requirements. You will build strong partnerships across DETSI, other government agencies, industry, and external science providers to attract funding and support integrated service delivery, research, and innovation.

As a trusted advisor, you will provide timely, high-quality scientific, strategic, and technical advice to senior leaders, representing the Queensland Government through engagement with stakeholders and professional networks, including presenting results in scientific, industry, and stakeholder forums.

You will support governance and compliance within the work unit, fulfilling obligations under legislation including the Work Health and Safety Act 2012 and the Financial Accountability Act 2009. You will champion a positive culture that promotes safety, respect, inclusion, and the interests of First Nations people, contributing to improved outcomes for First Nations communities.

This is a highly visible role, providing operational leadership, scientific excellence, and strategic guidance that underpins environmental monitoring, research, and policy development, while advancing nationally recognised laboratory and science programs.

Applications to remain current for 12 months.             

Job Ad Reference: QLD/682366/26

Closing Date: Thursday, 26 March 2026

Further information

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

Please ensure you download all attachments and follow the instructions on how to apply.

Documents

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

• 682366 26 Role Description (Word, 610KB)