Supervising Scientist

About the Opportunity

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council (PMHC) is currently seeking an experienced and motivated Supervising Scientist - Chemistry, to join the team at our Environmental Laboratory (PMHEL) where you will supervise, lead and mentor a skilled and dedicated team, oversee critical water quality testing while advancing your career in a state-of-the-art Laboratory setting.

PMHEL is a purpose-built facility situated on the Charles Sturt University Campus in Port Macquarie. We specialise in delivering high quality services covering sampling, analysis, reporting, consultation and advice to both internal and external customers. The Laboratory is a National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) accredited facility for both Chemical and Biological testing.

To succeed in this role, you will need to:

• Demonstrate strong leadership and mentoring skills
• Have technical expertise in environmental chemical analysis
• Be highly organised and detail orientated
• Communicate effectively across teams and with stakeholders
• Have a strong understanding of and experience with NATA accreditation requirements
• Champion quality assurance, safety and process improvement
• Be adaptive to changing priorities and technologies

Remuneration and Benefits

Employment Type: Full time, Permanent 35 hours per week

Salary (exclusive of super): Starting in the range of $107,977 to $120,860 depending on skills and experience

Opportunity for performance-based increase is available after 12 months

Benefits:

• PPE provided
• Flexible work arrangements - hybrid working and flexi-time
• Discounted gym membership through membership to Fitness Passport
• Career development opportunities
• Annual salary increase as per the Local Government (State) Award 2023 plus annual salary review
• Long service leave after 5 years
• Generous employee assistance program
• Salary packaging options available through Salary Packaging Australia and Maxxia
• Recognition through our annual awards ceremony celebrating and rewarding staff achievements

About the Port Macquarie Hastings Region

The region is one of Australia's most enviable locations. We boast a stunning hinterland, kilometres of pristine beaches, national parks, playgrounds, sporting facilities, restaurants, galleries, theatres and a genuine community vibe. The Mid-North Coast is perfect for hiking, surfing, camping, fishing, exploration, sports, arts, theatre, food and wine.

Questions?

If you would like to know more about this opportunity or have any questions about the role please contact Dr Maree Smith, Laboratory Manager on

Interested in Applying?

Please complete the application form below and answer the questions, then upload a copy of your resume and cover letter.

You will find the position description when you apply for the role.

You may find it helpful to write your response to the questions in a word document then copy/paste this into the application form once you are ready to submit your application.

Applications Close: Sunday 30 November :30pm

Interviews will be the week of 8 December 2025

At Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, we believe that diversity makes us stronger. We are committed to creating a workplace that reflects the vibrant community we serve—where everyone feels welcome, respected, and empowered to thrive.

We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, veterans, people with disabilities, culturally and linguistically diverse individuals, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process or in the workplace, please contact us at We're here to support you every step of the way.

Notes:

Suitable candidates may be placed on a talent pool or eligibility list for future identical, or similar positions for a period of 12 months.

Please upload documents in PDF format.

We often ask our preferred applicants to complete pre-employment checks. This may include: Reference Checks; National Criminal Police Check; Medical Assessment; Qualification Verification; Working with Children Check Verification.

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Port Macquarie Hastings Council adheres to the principles of a child safe organisation and is committed to the care and protection of all children and young people.