• Sydney
• Applications close 6 November 2024

About the Department

The Department of Industry, Science and Resources and our broader portfolio are integral to the Australian Government’s economic agenda. Our purpose is to help the government build a better future for all Australians through enabling a productive, resilient and sustainable economy, enriched by science and technology. We do this by:

• Growing innovative & competitive businesses, industries and regions
• Investing in science and technology
• Strengthening the resources sector.

The APS and the department offer a clear direction and meaningful work. You will be able to create positive impact in people’s lives whilst contributing to improved outcomes for Australia and our people.

If you would like to feel a strong connection to your work and you are accountable, committed and open to change, join us in shaping Australia’s future.

Please see the APSC’s APS Employee Value Proposition for more information on the benefits and value of employment within the APS.

About the team

The National Measurement Institute (NMI) is the Australian Government’s national measurement authority. We play an important role in the Australian economy. NMI does this by leading, maintaining and regulating Australia’s measurement system.

We deliver world-class measurement products, advice, and client services. NMI also administers the regulatory framework for measurement. Our national measurement standards are internationally recognised. We work to enhance and maintain these standards.

We value the different skills, knowledge, and perspectives our employees bring. NMI provides all employees with learning and development opportunities. We work to give everyone an equal opportunity to contribute and progress.
The Chemical and Biological Metrology Branch provides measurement standards such as certified reference materials, these include pure chemicals, gas standards, matrix materials and DNA standards. The branch also co-ordinates proficiency testing programs to assist laboratories assess their ongoing quality and performance. The branch houses three of Australia’s national testing laboratories for anti-doping, forensic drugs, and ultra-trace analysis. The branch delivers services across all these fields and carries out research and development to enhance our capabilities in line with national and international requirements.
The NMI’s Australian Forensic Drug Laboratory (AFDL) is a team of scientists providing forensic science services to government agencies such as the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and the Australian Border Force (ABF). The AFDL performs routine identification and quantification of illicit drugs seized by the AFP and ABF for prosecution, reporting and intelligence purposes. The AFDL also performs chemical profiling of illicit drugs to determine geographical origin of cultivated drugs and the synthetic route of manufactured drugs. This forms the basis of strategic and tactical intelligence reports used by law enforcement to assist drug trafficking disruption.

What’s in it for you?

Working at NMI means you are joining one of the world leaders in measurement science. NMI has a diverse range of roles and priorities that will enable you to learn new skills and expand your career in interesting and exciting ways. As part of the department, employees at NMI are covered by the relevant enterprise agreement and benefits include:

• 15.4% employer superannuation contribution
• 4 weeks annual leave per year
• 18 days paid personal leave per year.
• maternity and paternity leave
• a vacation care subsidy
• $235 healthy lifestyle subsidy
• flexible working arrangements
• salary packaging which allows you to make certain payments using your pre-tax salary.
• access to study assistance
• access to staff counselling services.

Our ideal candidate

• A Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Chemistry from a recognised university.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the chemistry pertaining to illicit drugs, including the knowledge of synthetic pathways used to manufacture methylamphetamine.
• Demonstrated experience in the use, maintenance and troubleshooting of advanced analytical instrumentation, including NMR, GC-MS, FTIR and UPLC. Experience with IRMS will be looked on favourably.
• Demonstrated knowledge of organic chemistry, and previous experience in the structural elucidation of unknown samples using 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance experiments (such as 1H, 13C, DEPT, COSY, HSQC, HMBC).
• Experience working in a NATA accredited laboratory and familiarity with ISO 17025 (Forensics).
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with others, learn and respond constructively to feedback, and contribute to the team’s performance.
• Good communication skills with the ability to accurately document results and observations, and present scientific evidence in court.
• Ability to conduct complex analysis with limited supervision showing judgement in problem-solving and decision-making.
• Ideal candidates will have personal drive and integrity in the content of the APS values, NMI values (Inclusive, Innovative, Accountable, Adaptable, Influential and Strategic) and code of conduct.

What you will do

As the Forensic Chemist, you will be responsible for undertaking analyses on drug seizures and controlled substances, including structural elucidation of unknown novel psychoactive substances using NMR. The successful candidate will also be responsible for the chemical profiling of methylamphetamine to determine the synthetic route and precursor used to manufacture these seizures. The results of these chemical analyses form the basis of intel and evidential statements required by law enforcement.

The successful candidate will also participate in other laboratory activities, many that impact on the Laboratory Quality System, including:

• Contributing to and promoting a culture of safety and a safe working environment, ensuring adherence to health and safety protocols.
• Operating and maintaining scientific instrumentation.
• Completing structural elucidation of unknown samples using 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance experiments.
• Processing raw analytical data.
• Preparing reports based on evidential and intel analysis and contributing to analogue opinion statements.
• Providing evidence in court.
• Working with senior staff to assist in the development and validation of analytical methods.
• Provision of support and advice to the team and the broader NMI, mentoring staff and inputting into multidisciplinary projects

Eligibility

• A Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Chemistry from a recognised university.
• Demonstrated experience in the use, maintenance and troubleshooting of advanced analytical instrumentation, including NMR, GC-MS, FTIR and UPLC. Experience with IRMS will be looked on favourably.
• Demonstrated knowledge of organic chemistry, and previous experience in the structural elucidation of unknown samples using 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance experiments (such as 1H, 13C, DEPT, COSY, HSQC, HMBC).
• Demonstrated knowledge of the chemistry pertaining to illicit drugs, including the knowledge of synthetic pathways used to manufacture methylamphetamine.

To be eligible for employment in the APS and the department, candidates must be Australian Citizens.

Positions require a Baseline security clearance and successful candidates will be required to obtain and maintain a clearance at this level.

Notes

A vaccination for Hepatitis A and B or serology immunity testing may be required after commencement with NMI.

A merit pool may be established and used to fill future vacancies within 18 months from the date the vacancy was first advertised in the Gazette.

The department does currently offer flexible work opportunities for many roles. This vacancy is NSW - Sydney - North Ryde based, although flexible or remote work arrangements may be considered. Please reach out to the contact officer to discuss this further.

Application information

Your application must not contain any classified or sensitive information. This includes in your application responses, CV and any other documents. The selection panel may not consider applications containing classified information.

Please provide a pitch explaining how your skills, knowledge and experience will be relevant to this role and why you are the best candidate for the position. Your pitch can contain no more than 750 words and should align to the key duties listed above.

Please complete your application online and provide your current CV with your application. (CVs must be in .doc, .docx, or .pdf format).

Accessible application documentation is available in other formats on request. Please contact recruitment@industry.gov.au or (02) 6276 1235 if you require assistance with your application.

Please refer to our Applying for a position information for additional information on how to apply.

Contact Information

For more information regarding this opportunity, please contact Melissa Bird on 02 02 9449 0108 or via email on melissa.bird@measurement.gov.au

How to apply: