Scientific Officer - Forensic Toxicology
Employment Type: Permanent Full Time
Position Classification: Scientific Officer
Remuneration: $76,378.47 - $108,941.55 per annum plus superannuation
Hours Per Week: 38
Requisition ID: REQ657001
Location: Forensic and Analytical Science Services Lidcombe
Applications Close: 20 May 2026 - 11:59pm
About the opportunity
The Forensic & Analytical Science Service (FASS) is part of NSW Health Pathology, and specialises in providing independent and objective forensic analysis to the criminal and coronial justice systems, as well as quality scientific analysis that contributes to community health and safety. Our services include Illicit Drug Analysis, Forensic & Drug Toxicology, Chemical Criminalistics, Forensic Biology/DNA, Forensic Medicine, and Environmental Toxicology.
You’ll be working with the Forensic Toxicology Laboratory to provide a wide range of highly specialised analytical drug testing services to the NSW Coroners Court, NSW Police Force and the Ministry of Health. If we are able to develop an eligibility list, there may also be an opportunity for a Scientific Officer position in the Drugs & Driving Toxicology Laboratory. In this role, you will support the NSW Police Force by determining the presence of alcohol or drugs in people involved in motor vehicle accidents, suspected drink or drug driving, and serious offences including homicide and drug-related assaults.
What you'll be doing
What we can offer you
Financial Benefits - Generous salary packaging options and other fringe benefits
Work-life balance - Up to 12 additional days off per year in addition to Annual Leave
Professional growth - Learning and development opportunities, including in-house training with RTO My Health Learning
Health & wellbeing - Fitness Passport gym discounts and Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for staff and families.
Interested in joining Australia’s largest public pathology service? Apply now by addressing the following questions:
- A Bachelor Degree or higher degree in Science or Applied Science with a major relevant to the Unit, or an equivalent qualification relevant to analytical or forensic science to which the role applies
- Demonstrated experience or advanced knowledge in methods and associated technology in the specific field, in an accredited laboratory or relevant environment
- Knowledge of chemical and/or biological hazards and precautions that exist within a laboratory environment and associated responsibilities
- Ability to work in a responsible and efficient manner, and manage competing priorities while ensuring attention to detail, precision and maintaining accountability of work completed
- Excellent oral and written communication skills including the ability to educate internal and external stakeholders, report writing skills and willingness to provide expert evidence in courts
- Display initiative, problem solving and analytical skills including an ability to apply established principles and investigate and resolve general and complex issues within the laboratory environment
- Sound understanding of legislation, policies and requirements that impact the laboratory environment including work health and safety, privacy and quality improvement requirements
- Demonstrated capacity to adopt and model the NSWHP RITES values of Respect, Integrity, Teamwork, Excellence and Safety
Information For Applicants
NSW Health Pathology is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive workplace. We value, and welcome all suitably qualified applicants regardless of age, background, disability, sexual orientation or gender identity.
NSW Health Pathology is committed to providing accessibility and reasonable accommodations and ensuring our recruitment process is flexible, inclusive, and free from barriers, promoting equal opportunities for all to succeed. Please reach out if you need adjustments.
NSW Health Pathology is committed to growing the Aboriginal workforce in public health. For Aboriginal candidates, support is available through the Stepping Up website
You must have valid working rights in Australia for the duration of the appointment to be eligible to apply.
All workers must meet NSW Health’s vaccination and screening requirements before starting employment. See PD2026_004 for more detail. The preferred candidate may be required to undergo a functional assessment prior to appointment.
An eligibility list may be created for similar vacancies in the future.
We encourage applicants to submit responses that reflect their own experiences and perspectives. Please note that applications that appear to be generated by AI tools or copied from external sources may not be considered.
Need more information?
1) Click here for the Position Description
2) Find out more about applying for this position
For role related queries or questions contact Sornalingam Kireesan on sornalingam.kireesan@health.nsw.gov.au
To learn more about NSWHP please visit “Life at NSW Health Pathology” or connect with us on LinkedIn!
