Title:  Laboratory Manager

QinetiQ is a global defence and security company and employs more than 8500 people in more than 50 locations around the world. We offer our customers premier expertise in advice, services and creative technology-based products and help solve some of their most challenging problems.

Our determination to deliver and improve today and anticipate and shape tomorrow, makes QinetiQ a very exciting, rewarding and respected place to work and learn. Globally QinetiQ has four Sectors, one of which is the ‘Australia Sector’’. The Australia Sector has more than 1,200 employees operating across four countries, namely Australia, Canada, Germany and the United Kingdom. 

This is an exciting phase in our history and we are looking for an experienced Laboratory Manager, based in Brisbane that will see you working within our Engineering Services division, where you will share our values of Performance, Collaboration and Integrity, and our purpose to protect the safety and security of our nation. Leading our talented team, you will be part of a diverse and inclusive environment with an enviable culture which inspires our people to deliver their best work.

14 Month fixed Term contract

This position is integral to the achievement of WHS compliance for the Hypersonic Structures & Materials Laboratory (HSML), and the Thermal Management Laboratory (TML), both located at Eagle Farm, QLD.

The successful candidate will be instrumental in driving scientific excellence, operational efficiency, and cross-regional alignment, ensuring the highest standards of quality, regulatory compliance, and innovation.

You will perform a planning and scheduling function for activities within the laboratories, coupled with ensuring equipment maintenance and availability is achieved. These specific laboratories contain specialised and complex equipment linked to materials research and associated process development for exotic high-temperature materials/structures.

The responsibilities of the role include but are not limited to:

• Working with WHS and Engineering teams, risk owners and other stakeholders to maintain laboratory compliance in accordance with QinetiQ, Defence and DSTG’s Safety Management Systems and Policies, including:
  • Conduct of Plant Risk Assessments and associated documentation (e.g. development of Plant Standard Operating Procedures, Competency Matrices, Maintenance schedules).
  • Assist with the documentation of laboratory processes and operating procedures, including preparation of Task/Process Risk Assessments.
  • Maintain complex scientific equipment, monitor its performance, standardise and calibrate as necessary. This includes when appropriate/necessary:
    • Personally undertaking hands-on maintenance activities.
    • Coordination/escorting of external parties carrying out maintenance/calibrations.
    • Organising quotations and generating purchasing artefacts in support of maintenance/calibration activities.
  • Assist with undertaking regular audits and workplace inspections.

• Establish and maintain laboratory records as required
• Assist with planning / scheduling activities within the laboratories.
• Ensure appropriate storage, handling, and disposal of hazardous materials.
• General laboratory housekeeping to ensure all aspects are maintained and fit for purpose, and appropriate PPE and lab consumables are stocked.
• Undertake procurement of laboratory items and consumables as required.
• Ensure laboratory users are on-boarded and hold appropriate competencies for the work they do in the laboratory, including the updating of skills/competency matrices as required.
• Perform additional duties as assigned in support of laboratory operations.
• Attendance at relevant site meetings and maintaining excellent communication with colleagues.

To be successful in the role, you will demonstrate the following;

• Experience working in/managing a hands-on laboratory environment.
• Experience with safety management and risk assessment processes.
• Good written and verbal communication to a range of stakeholders.
• Ability to develop positive relationships and contribute positively as an effective team member.
• Demonstrate excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Experience and Qualifications

• Qualifications or training relevant to laboratory management.
• B.Eng in Mechanical/Aerospace/Chemical/Materials Engineering, or relevant vocational qualifications, or relevant skills and work experience (desirable)

Due to the nature of the role, applicants must be eligible for Australian Defence security clearance

Whilst applications must be made online, confidential enquiries are welcome and may be directed to Denise Cole – Talent Acquisition Specialist via email; DLCole@QinetiQ.com.au

Looking for an Employer with Benefits?

At QinetiQ, our competitive remuneration and benefits package supports your evolving needs throughout your career.   You’ll share in the company’s success, and be rewarded for your own. We’ll invest in your professional development and provide an inclusive environment for you to succeed.

Some of our benefits include:

• Individual Professional development allowance
• Access to LinkedIn Learning
• Flexible work
• Purchased leave program & loyalty leave
• Up to 18 weeks paid parental leave
• Annual incentive scheme
• Complimentary salary continuance insurance
• Annual volunteering leave with Operation Give Back
• Relaxed dress code

As the defence industry in Australia grows, it is an exciting time to join QinetiQ. What the company looks like today will be different to that of tomorrow as we navigate an ever changing world. To innovate for our customers' advantage we value the need for diversity of thought in everything we do. We provide a flexible and inclusive environment where our people can bring their whole selves to work, meaningfully contribute and have equal opportunity to succeed. We actively seek applications from people who come from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Aligned with our Diversity and Inclusion Strategy and Reconciliation Action Plan, we also encourage applications from women, veterans and First Nations people. 

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QinetiQ conducts pre-employment screening, including but not limited to identity verification and police checks, for all preferred candidates