About the role:
The Supervising Chemist is responsible for managing the operational delivery of analytical testing services and resources for a team of chemists in the Inorganic Chemistry section. Inorganic Chemistry provides analytical testing for trace metals, metal contaminants, nutrients, and general chemistry parameters in water, food, soil, and other matrices. Techniques include ICP-MS, ICP-OES, XRF, IC-MS, TOC, SFA, and FIA. The role is accountable for leading the effective and timely development, delivery and implementation of a range of HR services, projects and initiatives across the Department of Health.

Your key responsibilities include:
Supervision and mentoring of Inorganic Chemistry staff on scientific, technical and operational matters.
Provide authoritative advice on scientific and operational matters and resourcing needs across the Inorganic Chemistry team to the Chief Chemist.
Contribute to the development of competence in Inorganic Chemistry by participating in workshops and seminars, collaborating with other laboratories, developing new methodologies and upgrading current methods and training modules.
Point of reference and advice to the Chief Chemist, Inorganic Chemistry on scientific and technical aspects including but not limited to analytical methods, method validation and verification, instrumentation, calibrations, interferences, standards, guidelines, interdisciplinary implications, and proficiency trials.
Provide leadership, performance management, mentoring and training of staff in a team workplace with participation and oversight of competency-based training.
Provide high level analytical advice to internal and external stakeholders in relation to testing including the preparation and provision of quotes.

Role fit:




You will bring expert technical knowledge in inorganic chemical analysis, particularly metals analysis across environmental, water, waste and biological samples. With extensive experience using advanced analytical instrumentation, including ICP-MS, ICP-OES and related technologies, you will ensure the delivery of high-quality scientific outcomes in accordance with ISO 17025 and NATA accreditation requirements. Your strong leadership, project management and data interpretation skills will enable you to guide teams, drive research and support continuous improvement initiatives. Supported by excellent communication skills, you will effectively engage with clients, stakeholders and regulatory bodies while applying a sound understanding of the legislative and regulatory framework governing environmental and public health analysis.

Why work for us:
Competitive salaries
Career training and development
Employee wellbeing programs
Generous leave entitlements, including leave loading

Our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion

At Queensland Health, our work environment is inclusive and supportive, and we value our employees. We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage applications from people of all cultures, abilities and backgrounds.

Our commitment to cultural safety, equity, diversity and inclusion means we understand some people may need changes to the recruitment process. If you need support during the recruitment process, such as meeting with the panel virtually instead of in person, please reach out to the hiring manager. We value diverse candidates and your need for adjustments will not affect our hiring decisions.

Ready to apply?

For further information on how to apply please review the attached Role Description.This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Australia License.

📌 Supervising Chemist (Brisbane)
🏢 Queensland Government
📍 Brisbane