Who We Are
EPE’s mission is to enable and protect in harmful environments.
We provide Force Protection, CBRN defence (CBRND) and Counter IED solutions and support to Defence Forces, Law Enforcement, and other government agencies. Based in Australia, we have a dedicated office in New Zealand.
In 2020, we were honoured with the NZDF Minister for Defence Award for Excellence, and today we continue to expand with strong operations across the U.S., Europe and Southeast Asia.
Many of our team members bring valuable experience from Defence and law enforcement backgrounds. Protecting and supporting people is at the heart of who we are. At EPE, we foster a workplace that is safe, inclusive and enjoyable; a place where people are proud to come to work every day.
About the Role
The Scientific Workflow QMS Lead assists military exploitation operations by supporting the development of scientific examination processes, workflow application and analysis of human and materiel signatures obtained from operational environments in support of military intelligence exploitation activities. The role is primarily focused on establishing ISO17025 conformance for the capability and the development and implementation of laboratory quality systems in support of military intelligence operations and strategic decision-making.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the development and implementation of the Quality Management System (QMS) methodology for the laboratory.
- Lead and maintain conformance with ISO17025 standards across all laboratory activities.
- Coordinate a small team of forensic experts on method development and quality management system development
- Manage proficiency testing, audits, and internal quality assurance programs to ensure required accreditation standards are met.
- Contribute to the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and laboratory policies.
- Coordinate and facilitate internal audits, external audits, and if required regulatory inspections.
- Investigate non-conformances, implement corrective actions, and drive continuous improvement in laboratory processes.
- Support method validation, equipment calibration, and data integrity processes to meet relevant ISO requirements.
- Coordinate and provide training and technical support to laboratory and other staff on quality control, and scientific laboratory best practice.
- Undertake sensitive and classified data handling.
- Communicate with team members and business service lines about progress and helping prioritise tasks to meet facility and project priorities and deadlines.
- Ensure effective and positive collaboration across the stakeholder community including EPE teams as required.
- Comply with safe work practices within the laboratory to ensure work is completed safely and the safety of others is considered. Completing requisite paperwork and complying with internal safety processes, including wearing correct personal protective equipment (PPE) for tasks, identification and reporting of any health and safety issues and potential hazards immediately to responsible manager.
- Participate in training, exercises, and capability validation activities as required.
- Participate in EPE company meetings and other activities as required
Essential Qualifications:
- Skilled in using Microsoft Office suite of applications
- Must be an Australian citizen capable of obtaining and maintaining a AGSVA Defence Security Clearance, minimum NV1.
Desirable Qualifications:
- Experience in forensic chemical or biological sciences, microbial forensics, or biosecurity.
- Ability to obtain PV Security Clearance
Skills and Experience
- Strong experience and in-depth working knowledge of the ISO 17025 standard
- Strong understanding of method validation, calibration procedures, measurement uncertainty and quality control measures.
- Proven attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and ability to manage accreditation processes effectively.
- Experience with Microsoft Suite, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint and Outlook
- Exceptional interpersonal and collaboration skills with ability to work within a diverse workplace.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills to deliver training and collaborate with stakeholders effectively
- Ability to work in isolation or as part of a small, dynamic team whilst maintaining quality control measures to provide accurate results.
- Ability to handle a fast-paced environment with multiple deadlines to ensure the greatest needs of the business are met
- Self-motivated and ability to thrive in a results-driven environment
Desirable:
- Knowledge of ISO 9001 certification
- Familiarity with field forensics, forensic laboratories.
- Knowledge of biometric systems, including integration with defence intelligence databases.
- Proven experience in FVEYS military intelligence exploitation or equivalent law enforcement forensic environments.
- Awareness of relevant international forensic processes, standards and chain-of-custody procedures to augment military operations.
- Understanding of operational security, classified material handling, and compartmentalised information protocols.
- Experience in asset management, and the coordination of laboratory equipment servicing.
- Experience participating in audits and/or assessment activities.
- Proven experience in sustainment, particularly in relation to large Australian military projects
- Defence or Defence Industry employment background
Role Tasks & Duties:
- Computer Use
- Sitting at desk for prolonged periods of time
- Working with hazardous chemicals and reagents
- Working with biological hazards
- Works in isolation from other staff (remote supervision)
- Distance walking (i.e. Large building or inter-building transit)
- Moving product which requires bending, Squatting, Reaching, Push/Pull
- Ability to traverse up and down at least two flights of stairs
- Requirement to wear personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Must be willing to travel interstate/overseas when needed
You may be directed to perform other duties from time to time
Why Join EPE?
- Competitive remuneration package
- Bonuses and incentives – performance bonuses, profit sharing and staff awards
- Tuition reimbursement – Assistance with education and professional development costs
- Flexible work hours and the option for remote working opportunities
- Many company events – Melbourne Cup, Christmas and EOFY Party to name a few
- Charity team building events
- Employee discounts on services through our HRIS system
- Free breakfast, fruit snacks and a coffee machine
- Pet friendly workplace – you can bring your pet to work
- Great work environment
- Free onsite parking
For more information please contact:
Rebecca Boreham
HR Manager