Job description
Agency NT Police Force Work unit Forensic Science Branch, Forensic Biology Unit
Job title Principal Forensic Examiner Designation Professional 3
Job type Full time Duration Ongoing
Salary $110,873-$124,173 Location Darwin
Position number 47487 RTF Closing 03/09/2025
Contact officer Casey Spanner, Team Leader – Forensic Biology Unit on or
About the agency
Apply online
APPLICATIONS MUST INCLUDE A ONE-PAGE SUMMARY ABOUT YOU, A DETAILED RESUME AND COPIES OF YOUR TERTIARY
QUALIFICATIONS.
Information for applicants – inclusion and diversity and Special Measures recruitment plans
The NTPS values diversity. The NTPS encourages people from all diversity groups to apply for vacancies and accommodates people with
disability by making reasonable workplace adjustments. If you require an adjustment for the recruitment process or job, please discuss
this with the contact officer. For more information about applying for this position and the merit process, go to the OCPE website.
Aboriginal applicants will be granted priority consideration for this vacancy. For more information on Special Measures plans, go to the
OCPE website.
Primary objective
To assist in the investigation of crime through the detection of forensic biology evidence particularly through item examination,
deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) analysis, interpretation, reporting and presentation of scientific evidence in courts of law.
Key duties and responsibilities
1. Manage a case load of serious and complex cases encompassing item examination, analysis and interpretation of single source and
mixed DNA profiles, conducting complex statistical analysis, generation of expert reports and provision of expert evidence in court in
line with relevant legislation, policies and procedures.
1. Attend scenes of crime as an expert Forensic Biologist to provide advice on the probative value of biological evidence, blood stain
pattern analysis and/or to sample, collect and collate evidence for investigative and evidentiary purposes.
1. Develop, implement and validate new technologies in the fields of molecular and forensic biology.
2. Develop and review methods and procedures for the Forensic Biology Unit and Forensic Science Branch.
3. Utilise the NT DNA database and the NT division of NCIDD in line with relevant legislation in a way that maintains the security and
integrity of the data.
6. Ensure National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) forensic accreditation standards are maintained.
7. Provide training to Forensic Science Branch staff, NT Police members and external stakeholders.
8. Adhere to and maintain Workplace Health and Safety (WH&S), Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) requirements.
9. As a senior member of the Forensic Biology Unit, provide leadership by mentoring, inspiring and motivating the team to achieve
results and provide a superior service to stakeholders.
Selection criteria
Essential
1. A Bachelor's degree in science from a recognised tertiary institute majoring in molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics or similar.
2. Extensive experience in an accredited forensic biology laboratory with an ability to perform the key duties and responsibilities of this
role.
1. Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively in order to provide a quality forensic biology service including an ability to negotiate,
collaborate and communicate complex scientific concepts in simple terms as appropriate for the intended audience.
4. Demonstrated ability to work autonomously and as part of a team, and to motivate others to achieve results within strict deadlines
whilst meeting QA and QC requirements.
5. Proven ability to interact effectively with people of diverse backgrounds and cultures.
1. Understanding and a working knowledge Equity and Diversity practices and principles.
Desirable
1. Post graduate qualifications in science, statistics, or similar.
2. Experience in presenting complex forensic biology results in court.
Further information
1. Responsibilities may require an adjusted work schedule, overtime, and evening/weekend hours to meet the operational requirements
of the Forensic Biology Unit.
2. The successful applicant must have no significant criminal record confirmed by a Police criminal history check and provide DNA and
fingerprint samples for comparison and retention.
3. The work of the Forensic Biology Unit can be confronting and there is high risk of exposure to distressing material and information.
The psychological wellbeing of all members of the Forensic Biology Unit is a priority and as such, members are subject to annual Well
Checks. 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.
1. This position is subject to the conditions of the Northern Territory Public Sector Enterprise Agreement.