Closes: 10 February 2026
Classification: Health Professional Level 4
Salary: $127,597 - $141,511 plus superannuation
Position No: 59149
Directorate: Health and Community Services
Advertised (Gazettal date): 20 January 2026
Contact Officer: Amy Sutton on or
Details:
About the ACT Government Analytical Laboratory (ACTGAL)
The ACT Government Analytical Laboratory (ACTGAL) is a multidisciplinary scientific facility delivering high‑quality analytical services across Quality, Preclinical Research, Microbiology, Environmental Chemistry, Forensic Chemistry and Forensic Toxicology. ACTGAL operates under a certified ISO 9001 quality management system.
About the Forensic Toxicology Unit
The Forensic Toxicology Unit is a specialised section within ACTGAL, accredited to ISO Legal, including Forensic Science). The unit provides:
* Analysis and reporting of biological specimens to identify and quantify drugs and poisons in support of ACT legislation and policy.
* Expert advice and evidence, including the presentation of expert testimony in ACT courts, relating to the analyses conducted by the unit.
About the Opportunity
The Assistant Director, Forensic Toxicology plays a pivotal role in delivering high‑quality forensic toxicology services in the ACT. The position supports the Director, Forensic Toxicology and is responsible for the analytical investigation of toxicological samples, preparation and review of reports, presentation of expert evidence in court, and contributions to ongoing quality management, method development and validation.
The role also supports day‑to‑day operational management, including staff supervision, training, workload coordination and the maintenance of routine laboratory activities. The Assistant Director contributes to strategic planning and provides high‑level technical and scientific advice to internal and external stakeholders.
Eligibility/Other requirements: Applicants for the role of Assistant Director, Forensic Toxicology will have:
* Undergraduate degree in science (a major and/or postgraduate qualification in chemistry is highly desirable).
* Current driver's licence.
* Prior to commencement, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a pre-employment National Police Check.
Notes: This is a temporary position available from 28 February 2026 until 28 August 2026 with the possibility of extension up to 12 months and/or permanency.
An order of merit will be established from this selection process and may be used to fill future identical vacancies over the next 12 months.
How to apply: Applicants are asked to submit their curriculum vitae accompanied by a two‑page pitch addressing the Professional/Technical Skills and Knowledge and Behavioural Capabilities outlined in the Position Description. Please also provide the names and contact details of two referees.
Applications should be submitted .
Where an offer of employment is for a fixed-term period, any related temporary contracts within the Territory will be issued in compliance with the requirements and applicable exceptions outlined in the Fair Work Act.
Health and Community Services
Health and Community Services Directorate was established on the 1 July 2025. This new directorate is an amalgamation of positions previously advertised under ACT Health Directorate and Community Services Directorate.
LI-DNI
Note
This is a temporary position available from 28 February 2026 until 28 August 2026 with the possibility of extension up to 12 months and/or permanency.