Laboratory Manager

QinetiQ is a global defence and security company and employs more than people in more than 50 locations around the world. We offer our customers premier expertise in advice, services and creative technology-based products and help solve some of their most challenging problems. Our determination to deliver and improve today and anticipate and shape tomorrow makes QinetiQ a very exciting, rewarding and respected place to work and learn. Globally QinetiQ has four sectors, one of which is the "Australia Sector". The Australia Sector has more than 1,200 employees operating across four countries – Australia, Canada, Germany and the United Kingdom. This is an exciting phase in our history and we are looking for an experienced Laboratory Manager based in Brisbane who will work within our Engineering Services division, sharing our values of Performance, Collaboration and Integrity, and our purpose to protect the safety and security of our nation. Leading our talented team, you will be part of a diverse and inclusive environment with an enviable culture that inspires our people to deliver their best work. Month fixed Term contract: This position is integral to the achievement of WHS compliance for the Hypersonic Structures & Materials Laboratory (HSML) and the Thermal Management Laboratory (TML), both located at Eagle Farm, QLD. The successful candidate will drive scientific excellence, operational efficiency and cross‑regional alignment, ensuring the highest standards of quality, regulatory compliance and innovation. You will perform a planning and scheduling function for laboratory activities, coupled with ensuring equipment maintenance and availability is achieved. Responsibilities Maintain laboratory compliance in accordance with QinetiQ, Defence and DSTG Safety Management Systems and Policies; conduct plant risk assessments and associated documentation (e.g., development of plant SOPs, competency matrices, maintenance schedules). Document laboratory processes and operating procedures, including preparation of task/process risk assessments. Maintain complex scientific equipment: monitor performance, standardise and calibrate as necessary; personally undertake hands‑on maintenance activities when appropriate. Coordinate and escort external parties performing maintenance or calibrations. Organise quotations and generate purchasing artefacts to support maintenance/calibration activities. Assist with regular audits and workplace inspections. Establish and maintain laboratory records as required. Plan and schedule laboratory activities. Ensure appropriate storage, handling and disposal of hazardous materials. Maintain general laboratory housekeeping so all aspects are fit for purpose; stock appropriate PPE and consumables. Procure laboratory items and consumables as needed. Ensure laboratory users are onboarded and hold appropriate competencies, updating skills/competency matrices as required. Perform additional duties as assigned in support of laboratory operations. Attend relevant site meetings and maintain excellent communication with colleagues. Qualifications Experience working in or managing a hands‑on laboratory environment. Experience with safety management and risk assessment processes. Good written and verbal communication skills for a range of stakeholders. Ability to develop positive relationships and contribute effectively as a team member. Demonstrated excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Qualifications or training relevant to laboratory management; background in Mechanical, Aerospace, Chemical or Materials Engineering, or relevant vocational qualifications or work experience is desirable. Applicants must be eligible for Australian Defence security clearance. Whilst applications must be made online, confidential enquiries are welcome and may be directed to Denise Cole – Talent Acquisition Specialist via email. Benefits Individual professional development allowance. Access to LinkedIn Learning. Flexible work arrangements. Purchased leave program & loyalty leave. Up to 18 weeks paid parental leave. Annual incentive scheme. Complimentary salary continuance insurance. Annual volunteering leave with Operation Give Back. Relaxed dress code. As the defence industry in Australia grows, it is an exciting time to join QinetiQ. Diversity & Inclusion What the company looks like today will be different to that of tomorrow as we navigate an ever‑changing world. To innovate for our customers' advantage we value the need for diversity of thought in everything we do. We provide a flexible and inclusive environment where our people can bring their whole selves to work, meaningfully contribute and have equal opportunity to succeed. We actively seek applications from people who come from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Aligned with our Diversity and Inclusion Strategy and Reconciliation Action Plan, we also encourage applications from women, veterans and First Nations people. QinetiQ conducts pre‑employment screening, including but not limited to identity verification and police checks, for all preferred candidates. #J- #J-18808-Ljbffr