Are you a qualified Chemist looking for something different? Join the Forensic Science Laboratory at ChemCentre where you will contribute to the administration of justice in WA.
About us
ChemCentre is Western Australia’s leading chemical and forensic service provider. ChemCentre provides a comprehensive range of scientific services, working with a wide range of clients including Government Agencies, universities, environmental consultants, primary producers, exporters, retailers and the general public. Through the provision of chemical information, advice and analytical services, ChemCentre also mitigates risks to Government, protects the community and environment, and supports sustainable development.
About the roles
We are seeking highly motivated Chemists to fill two (2) vacant positions, one in the Illicit Drugs team (Forensic Chemistry, position CC020174) and one in the Analytical Toxicology team (Forensic Toxicology, position CC020204).
The Illicit Drugs team provides expert analysis, identification and reporting on illicit drugs. In this role, you will analyse illicit drug items and report on the results of analysis. You will be required to become an Analyst under the Health Act 1911, The Medicines and Poisons Act 2014, and an Approved Analyst under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1981 to provide expert evidence within the criminal justice system. You will also be required to participate on the 24/7 on-call roster for attendance at suspected Clandestine Drug laboratories.
The Analytical Toxicology team undertakes the majority of the analyses required for the Coronial Toxicology and WA Police Toxicology teams. In this role, you will view case files, reports and specimens to undertake forensic analysis, contributing to cause of death determinations and evidence supporting traffic and criminal investigations. You will also undertake examinations relating to toxico-surveillance to inform public health and safety and harm minimisation strategies.
To be successful in these roles, you will have the demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, and the ability to work in a high-paced team environment. Please refer to the two Job Description Forms (JDF) for further information about each position.
Additional information about the roles
The nature of our work within the Forensic Science Laboratory varies and involves exposure to sensitive and, at times, confronting material. Staff are supported with a specialist employee health and well-being program dedicated to providing self-care and resilience building strategies. This program also provides training and employee support is available at any time. The applicant must be suited to work in an area where there is an expectation and willingness to seek, engage and accept help with psychological services. Personal qualities that include well developed resilience and tact are important attributes required for this role.
These full time positions are offered on a Fixed Term Contract, Illicit Drugs for two (2) years and Analytical Toxicology for one (1) year, with the possibility for extension or permanency. Suitable applicants may be considered for like positions within 12 months from the date of finalisation of the selection process.
The position is located in Building 500, Resources and Chemistry Precinct, Manning Road, Bentley.
Eligibility
To be eligible for a fixed-term appointment, it is essential to have documentary evidence of your entitlements to live and work in Australia for the period of the contract. To be eligible for a permanent position, Australian Citizenship or Permanent Residency is essential.
ChemCentre does not currently participate in employer visa sponsorship arrangements.
Prior to commencing employment, a National Police Clearance and Fitness for Work (alcohol and drug testing) will be required for a successful applicant. A DNA sample may be required for our staff DNA elimination database.
What we offer
We offer the opportunity for you to be part of an innovative and supportive work environment with flexible work conditions in a modern and technologically advanced facility. ChemCentre provides opportunities for continuous professional development and learning as part of maintaining a high calibre and accredited organisation.
How to apply
Please read the application instructions carefully. State clearly on your application if you are applying for Drugs, Toxicology or both.
Applicants are required to submit:
- A fully completed online application form (this is generated when you select ‘Apply for Job’ button) which includes the names and contact details of two (2) professional referees. It is preferable for one of your referees to be your current supervisor or manager.
- A comprehensive CV and copies of your degree (or higher qualification) in Chemistry or a relevant science, with substantial chemistry components.
- A written statement in no more than 2 pages demonstrating your ability to meet Essential Criteria (EC) 2 and 3 for either Drugs or Toxicology, as listed in the relevant JDFs attached. If you are applying for both, address all criteria listed below:
- EC2 for both positions: Ability to demonstrate scientific knowledge relevant to organic analytical chemistry.
- EC3 for Illicit Drugs: Practical experience and/or demonstrated understanding of modern analytical organic chemistry and separation techniques relevant to illicit drug This includes, but is not limited to, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry; liquid chromatography; Ultraviolet, infrared and Raman spectroscopy; field detection techniques; and extraction techniques such as liquid-liquid, solid phase and/or supported liquid extractions.
OR
- EC3 for Analytical Toxicology: Practical experience and / or an understanding of modern, analytical organic chemistry instrumental and separation techniques relevant to toxicology examinations: in particular, gas chromatography; liquid chromatography; low- and high-resolution mass spectrometry; immunoassay; and extraction techniques such as liquid-liquid, solid phase and/or supported liquid extractions.
The remaining role specific criteria will be assessed at a later stage of the recruitment and selection process.
During the selection process, you may be assessed on your ability to fulfill the responsibilities of this position in accordance with ChemCentre Values. If you have any questions regarding this, please contact the person named in this advertisement.
Information
For more information about ChemCentre please visit www.chemcentre.wa.gov.au
For more specific job-related information regarding the Illicit Drugs position, please contact Sheena Trigg, Team Leader Illicit Drugs on (08) 9422 9912 during normal business hours.
For more specific job-related information regarding the Analytical Toxicology position, please contact David Brown, Manager Forensic Toxicology on (08) 9422 9848 during normal business hours.
If you have any access needs that require adjustment to allow you to fully participate in the application and interview process, including alternative methods of communication, please contact hr@chemcentre.wa.gov.au or call on (08) 9422 9800.
For information and assistance with preparing your application, please refer to Jobs and Skills WA.
Equality and Diversity Statement
ChemCentre is committed to attracting and retaining a culturally diverse workforce through supportive and inclusive work practices. We value the different perspectives, experiences and backgrounds that diversity brings to our workplace. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people; people with disability; youth; people of diverse sex, sexualities or gender; and culturally and linguistically diverse people.
Closing Date: Applications should be submitted on or before Monday 9 February 2026 at 5.00pm WST.
LATE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED
