FORENSIC DNA ANALYSIS LAB TECHNICAL SUPERVISOR

Attorney Generals Department; Adelaide; Hybrid; AUD 95,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Forensic Science SA is seeking a Technical Supervisor to lead the forensic DNA analysis laboratory operations in Adelaide. The role focuses on ensuring high-quality testing, compliance, and continuous improvement across practice areas.

You will oversee LIMS, evaluate new technologies and test kits, mentor staff, and manage workforce planning and resources to support efficient, accurate forensic services.

Qualifications

• Degree in science or related discipline required; postgraduate qualification preferred.
• Experience leading forensic DNA operations and managing QA/accreditation.
• Strong staff development, rostering, and training capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead forensic DNA laboratory operations and ensure high-quality testing.
• Develop and implement LIMS and adoption of new technologies.
• Oversee staff rostering, training and professional development.

Skills

DNA technology

LIMS

Leadership

Mentoring

Education

Science degree (or higher)

Tools

Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)

Job description

FORENSIC DNA ANALYSIS LAB TECHNICAL SUPERVISOR

Reference 3IAA813D

External Vacancy – Open to Everyone

Division: Finance People & Perform

Location: 21 Divett Place Adelaide SA 5000

Salary Range: $94,769-$109,787

Classification: PO2

Engagement Type: Ongoing

Closing Date: 11 Nov 2026

Role Highlights

• Leads forensic DNA technology, LIMS, and laboratory innovation
• Drives quality, accreditation, and operational excellence
• Develops high-performing teams through leadership and mentoring

The FDA Laboratory Technology Supervisor is responsible for leading and overseeing forensic DNA laboratory operations, ensuring the effective delivery of high-quality forensic testing services while maintaining compliance with accreditation, quality, and legislative requirements. The role provides technical leadership in the implementation and ongoing development of Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS), the evaluation and integration of new technologies, methods, instruments, and test kits, and the continuous improvement of laboratory quality systems. The position supervises and supports staff through workforce planning, rostering, training, and professional development, while also undertaking specialised and complex DNA analyses on forensic samples. In addition, the role manages laboratory resources and workflows, investigates quality incidents, contributes to validation and verification projects, and works collaboratively to foster a positive, safe, and inclusive workplace culture that supports operational excellence and continuous improvement within Forensic DNA Analysis services.

Special Conditions

• National Police Check required.
• Employment-related Screening Check required.
• Some out of hours work may be required.
• Some interstate and intrastate travel may be required.
• Appropriate degree in science (or other related discipline) or an appropriate university qualification (including a post-graduate qualification) in a professional discipline. Some out of hour’s work may be required to respond to urgent SA Police and Coronial casework. Interstate travel may be required for training, research, or professional development activity. Incumbent must provide a reference DNA sample so that their DNA profile can be generated and stored on an elimination DNA

For more information, please see attached Job & Person Specification

Forensic Science SA (FSSA) provides a comprehensive,coordinated range of services to agencies associated with the justice systemincluding the State Coroner, South Australia Police (SAPOL), the Office of theDirector of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) and defence and civil litigants.

We are part of the Attorney General’s Department and theDirector, FSSA reports to the Executive Director Finance, People andPerformance. Within FSSA there are four scientific/medico-legal operationalareas: Pathology, Chemistry, Biology and Toxicology, each analysing materialsusing a diverse range of scientific equipment and processes.

The operational areas are supported by Administration,Information Technology and Projects, Facilities and Services and Quality, whoeach provide underpinning services in support of the operational areas.

The South Australian public sector promotes diversity and flexible ways of working including part-time.Applicants are encouraged to discuss the flexible working arrangements for this role.