Algal Specialist

About the Company

SA Water is a successful, modern water utility wholly owned by the Government of South Australia. We employ more than 1,700 people across a broad range of disciplines who operate more than $14 billion worth of infrastructure to deliver essential water and sewerage services to more than 1.8 million South Australians.

We operate in a geographically and climatically diverse service area, with sites and locations from Ceduna through to Port Augusta, the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands, across to the Riverland, down to Mount Gambier, and most places in between.

Our strength and expertise have been shaped by our history. For more than 165 years, South Australians have depended on us to innovate and deliver efficient and sustainable water services. With nationally and internationally recognised industry expertise, we're focused on understanding and meeting our customers' expectations.

As well as safely delivering smart and reliable services for our customers of today, we innovate to shape the water solutions of the future that will support thriving economies and healthy communities.

About the role

As an Algal Specialist in our Laboratory Services team, you will be the subject matter expert in algal and cyanobacteria analysis (Phycology) ensuring methodology is updated and compliant with current and emerging algal nomenclature standards. You will lead complex investigations, deliver high-quality, NATA-accredited testing services, and provide expert input for incident response and operational decision-making. In this role, you will drive improvements in analytical methods, contribute to process innovation, and ensure the timely delivery of accurate results to internal and external stakeholders. You will also play a key role in maintaining quality standards and enhancing laboratory capability through training and knowledge sharing.

About you

You are a passionate scientist with specialist expertise in algal and cyanobacteria identification (Phycology) and a strong understanding of laboratory practices and quality systems. You enjoy working in a collaborative environment, applying critical thinking to solve complex challenges. Your attention to detail, technical leadership, and commitment to continuous improvement make you an invaluable contributor to high-performing lab teams.

About Science and Strategy

The Science and Strategy group employs scientific approaches to address present and upcoming challenges. They execute a strategy driven by customer preferences to elevate the SA Water brand and position us for future success.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Lead and provide expert advice in freshwater and marine algal investigations
• Identify algae and cyanobacteria to genus and species level using microscopy
• Maintain current taxonomy knowledge and ensure internal procedures reflect changes.
• Support accreditation through accurate and timely certification and reporting
• Conduct and troubleshoot complex biological analyses and instrumentation
• Respond to operational incidents, coordinate root cause analysis, and provide input to debriefs
• Mentor and train laboratory staff in algal identification and biological testing methods
• Drive continuous improvement and service innovation through process reviews
• Participate in internal and external audits
• Collaborate with key internal teams and external stakeholders

Your success in this role will come from:

• Tertiary qualifications in Science, Biology, or a related discipline
• Significant experience in algal and cyanobacteria identification (Phycology) and analytical techniques
• Strong knowledge of laboratory quality systems, including NATA and ISO standards
• Proven ability to troubleshoot, optimise, and interpret complex biological results
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
• Knowledge of WHS practices in a lab environment
• Experience training staff in microscopy and phycology (desirable)
• Familiarity with Laboratory Information Management Systems (desirable)

To apply, click 'Apply'. Please submit and complete the application form, upload a cover letter and current resume. For enquiries, please contact Chantelle Romeo from the Talent Acquisition

Applications close 4pm Wednesday 15 October.

A great customer experience is best achieved by having a diverse and inclusive team that reflects the community we serve. Applications are encouraged from everyone, including people living with disability, job seekers of all ages, members of the LGBTIQA+ community, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and people from culturally diverse backgrounds.

Our Industry is like no other. Dive into the wonderful world of water and explore the boundless opportunities. Learn more about the water industry

Please note: We request that recruitment agencies do not submit candidates for this position, as they will not be accepted.