Australian Clinical Labs (ACL) is seeking an experienced Senior Medical Scientist to lead our Microbiology Department as Head of Department. This full‑time leadership role is ideal for a motivated scientist with deep microbiology expertise who thrives in a dynamic, service‑driven environment and is ready to influence meaningful change.
About the role
As Head of Department – Microbiology, you will provide scientific, technical and operational leadership for the microbiology laboratory. Working collaboratively with the Clayton Microbiology Department Manager, Geelong Laboratory Manager, Pathologists, Clinical Directors and Quality teams, you will:
· Lead and manage day‑to‑day microbiology laboratory operations
· Provide senior scientific expertise and act as subject matter expert for the department
· Supervise, mentor and support scientists, technicians and laboratory assistants
· Ensure all staff are trained, competent, and performing duties to best‑practice standards
· Oversee validation, interpretation and authorisation of microbiology results
· Maintain compliance with NATA, NPACC and ISO accreditation requirements
· Drive quality improvement, audit participation, risk management and corrective actions
· Manage workflows, staffing levels, rosters, KPIs and turnaround times
· Regularly liaise with Pathologists to review methods, performance and quality
· Maintain oversight of departmental resources, consumables and operational efficiency
· Foster a positive, professional and safety‑focused laboratory culture
What we’re looking for
Essential Criteria
* Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (or equivalent; AIMS‑assessed if overseas trained)
* Minimum 5 years’ experience in diagnostic pathology, preferably microbiology
* Demonstrated leadership or supervisory experience in a laboratory setting
* Advanced theoretical and practical microbiology expertise
* Strong understanding of quality systems, accreditation standards and risk management
* Excellent verbal and written communication skills
* Proven ability to manage competing priorities, staff performance and tight timelines
* High level of professionalism, integrity and commitment to patient‑centred care
Desirable
* Eligibility for AIMS membership
* Experience developing or implementing laboratory improvement initiatives
* Experience managing rosters, KPIs, consumables and operational budgets
Applicants should address the above criteria in their application.
Employee Benefits
You will have access to a range of exciting benefits when you join ACL, including:
· 10 weeks paid parental leave*
· Access to hundreds of everyday savings including phone bills, fuel and groceries, fashion, restaurants and entertainment.
· Expert guidance on healthy living on a range of topics like money, work, mind, body, and life.
· Free and confidential support from qualified counsellors.
· Discounted health insurance.
· Training and development opportunities.
*Service conditions apply
About us
Australian Clinical Labs (Clinical Labs) is committed to be the pathology provider of choice. Our business is growing rapidly and now has over 5000 employees and a truly national reach. We have approximately 100 NATA accredited laboratories that perform close to 6 million episodes each year for doctors, specialists, patients, hospitals and corporate clients. Clinical Labs services almost 100 private and public hospitals and is the largest provider of pathology services to public hospitals in Australia.
Who we are
We pride ourselves on our patient focus and medical excellence, empowering our people to help us to improve and save patient’s lives. Our culture is agile and willing to change, and we always act with the highest respect and integrity. Clinical Lab’s employees are passionate about what they do, the work environment in which they operate and the safety and wellbeing of all who interact with us.
Vaccination Requirements
As a healthcare provider, Clinical Labs requires all new employees to be vaccinated against preventable diseases. If successful, we will ask for proof of immunisation accordingly for our records.
You may be required to undergo probity checks as part of the recruitment process including police check and licence check.
Diversity and Inclusion
Australian Clinical Labs is an equal opportunities employer, we encourage applications from people of all ages, nationalities, abilities and cultures – including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, the LGBTQI+ community, people living with disability, and individuals with culturally diverse backgrounds. We’re happy to adjust our recruitment process to support accessibility needs. We also welcome applications from individuals with culturally diverse backgrounds. Australian Clinical Labs is committed to supporting Veteran Employment and Australian Defence Force Veterans and their spouses are encouraged to apply.
Please note, only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.