Who We Are
EPE is a great Australian success story. As a veteran-owned business, we partner with over 20 Commonwealth agencies to deliver specialist capability, training, through-life support and project management. In 2020, we were honoured with the NZDF Minister for Defence Award for Excellence, and today we continue to expand with strong operations across Australia, the U.S., Europe and Southeast Asia.
Many of our team members bring valuable experience from Defence and law enforcement backgrounds. Protecting and supporting people is at the heart of who we are. At EPE, we foster a workplace that is safe, inclusive and enjoyable; a place where people are proud to come to work every day.
The Role
An Expression of Interest is open with EPE for a highly competent and motivated Forensic or Analytical Chemist to join our specialist team supporting Defence and law enforcement operations. It is anticipated that the role will commence early in 2026, and for potentially up to a 2 year contract and leave you with excellent experience for your CV. This role will provide technical and specialist direction to the development of chemical analysis methods and the validation of said methods, as well as contribute to the ongoing development and implementation of the supported laboratory's Quality Management System (QMS).
This position offers a unique opportunity to work on complex and sensitive operational samples, contribute to national security outcomes, and apply cutting-edge forensic and analytical chemistry techniques in the Defence and national security domain.
Key Responsibilities
· Provide technical/specialist input and support to method development of the respective chromatography and spectroscopy techniques and the implementation of validations to quantify accuracy of results as part of the Quality Management System (QMS) methodology for the laboratory.
· Perform qualitative and quantitative chemical analysis on the spectrum of recovered samples, including energetic compositions, TICs/TIMs, trace compositions and unknown compounds. Utilising a range of analytical techniques, such as gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), High Performance liquid chromatography (HP-LC), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, Reagent Free Ion Chromatography (RFIC) and Microwave Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (MPAES)
· Chemical and Physical Trace Analysis (fibers, residues and other complex matrices).
· Analysis and identification of known and novel emerging substances and precursors.
· Develop standards and prepare complex sample matrices for analytics.
· Advise elements in the conduct of initial presumptive and confirmatory analysis of chemicals, reagents and equipment.
· Assist with laboratory equipment management, cleaning, sustaining, and basic maintenance.
· Ensure effective and supportive collaboration across EPE and clients as required.
· Support Defence operational requirements including human identification in threat networks, persons of interest, and potential disaster recovery operations.
· Participate in training, exercises, and capability validation activities.
· Ensure safe work practices and compliance with PPE, compliance, and hazard reporting.
Essential Qualifications and Experience:
· Degree - (BSc) in Forensic Science (Chemistry and Toxicology) or (BSc) Analytical Chemistry
· Skilled in Microsoft Office applications.
· Strong communication skills, with ability to train and collaborate effectively.
· Ability to work both independently and as part of a small team in a high-pressure environment.
· Must be and Australian citizen eligible for AGSVA Security Clearance (NV1 minimum).
Personal Attributes
We are looking for a scientist who is:
· Analytical and detail-focused, ensures accuracy in sensitive forensic work.
· Ethical and discreet, maintains confidentiality and integrity in handling operational material.
· Collaborative, works effectively across teams and with external stakeholders.
· Resilient and adaptable, thrives in fast-paced, high-pressure environments.
· Self-motivated, proactive in problem-solving and continuous learning.
· Organised, able to prioritise multiple tasks and meet critical deadlines.
Why Join EPE?
· Competitive remuneration package
· Bonuses and incentives: performance bonuses, profit sharing and staff awards
· Tuition reimbursement: Assistance with education and professional development costs
· Flexible work hours and the option for remote working opportunities
· Many company events: Melbourne Cup, Christmas and EOFY Party to name a few
· Charity team building events
· Employee discounts on services through our HRIS system
· Free breakfast, fruit snacks and a coffee machine
· Pet friendly workplace – you can bring your pet to work
· Great work environment
· Company Uniform provided
· Free onsite parking
We are committed to building a workforce that reflects the diverse society in which we live and work and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and people from culturally diverse backgrounds.
To be eligible to apply for this position you must be an Australian citizen (FVEY country candidates may also be considered), eligible for AGSVA Security Clearance (NV1 minimum).
Further information regarding clearances found at
The position may require ITAR (International Traffic Arms Regulations) compliance - must meet eligibility requirements under US export control, your nationality may affect eligibility.
Formal offer of employment is also subject to standard pre-employment checks including medical and other background checks.
For more information please contact:
Rebecca Boreham
HR Manager