Chemist

Careers at Council; Port Macquarie-Hastings Council; On-site; AUD 87,000 - 98,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional council in Port Macquarie is seeking a Chemist to undertake critical water quality analysis and report results. The ideal candidate will have strong analytical skills and experience with lab instrumentation. This full-time permanent role offers a salary range of $87,269 to $97,681 with various benefits like flexible working arrangements and career development opportunities.

Benefits

PPE provided

Flexible work arrangements

Discounted gym membership

Career development opportunities

Annual salary increase

Long service leave

Employee assistance program

Salary packaging options

Recognition awards

Qualifications

• Demonstrate strong analytical skills in environmental chemical analysis.
• Have experience with Laboratory instrumentation such as FIA and ICP.
• Be skilled in environmental sampling with a strong understanding of standards.

Responsibilities

• Undertake critical water quality analysis and reporting results.
• Lead and mentor staff in sampling.

Skills

Analytical skills in environmental chemical analysis

Experience with Laboratory instrumentation

Environmental sampling

Organisational skills

Effective communication

Understanding of NATA accreditation

Adaptability to changing priorities

Job description

Port Macquarie, New South Wales

Full-time

Description

At PMHC every employee plays a part in ensuring we work together to achieve positive outcomes for our community. To help us achieve this we are seeking an experienced and enthusiastic Chemist, to join the team at our Environmental Laboratory (PMHEL) where you will play a key role in undertaking critical water quality analysis and reporting of results as well as leading and mentoring staff in sampling.

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

• Demonstrate strong analytical skills in environmental chemical analysis (e.g., water and wastewater testing)
• Have experience with Laboratory instrumentation such as FIA and ICP, including troubleshooting and maintenance
• Be skilled in environmental sampling with a strong understanding of relevant standards and regulations
• Be organised and detail orientated
• Communicate effectively across teams and with stakeholders
• Have a strong understanding and practical experience with NATA accreditation requirements
• Be adaptive to changing priorities and emerging technologies

Remuneration And Benefits

Employment Type: Full time, Permanent 35 hours per week.

Salary (exclusive of super): In the range of $87,269 to $97,681 depending on skills and experience.

Opportunity for performance-based increases 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 [phone].

Interested in Applying?

Please complete the application form below and answer the questions which relate to the essential requirements within the position description, 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 2025 at 11.30pm

Interviews

will be held at Port Macquarie Hastings Council office on Friday 12 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 [e-mail].

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.

PMHC's recruitment notification process is primarily via system generated emails. Please ensure your email is correct before submitting an application to avoid missing crucial updates and outcomes. Email communication notifications are used for but not limited to: application received, interview booking tools, confirmation of interview, request for references/more information, delay notifications, testing/assessments (aptitude/psychometric/industry specific) and application outcomes (unsuccessful before or after interview).

Please regularly check your 'junk mail' or ensure our email address [e-mail] and Pulse email [e-mail] is set to 'trustworthy'.

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.