EXPRESSION OF INTEREST
For the Recruitment of the
Applications close 9th March 2026
Forensic Science Queensland (FSQ) operates specialised Forensic Biology and Forensic Chemistry functions that support the criminal justice and coronial systems in Queensland.
Forensic Chemistry provides analytical and advisory services principally to the Queensland Police Service in the areas of (i) illicit drug analysis, which involves the analysis of both known and emerging novel drugs, (ii) clandestine drug laboratory investigation, which involves both attendance at crime scenes, and analysis of exhibits to provide expert opinion to the courts, and (iii) trace evidence examinations, which cover oil spill investigations, lubricant analysis, explosives, and fibres, which are often associated with serious crimes such as sexual assault and murder. Our chemists provide expert impartial scientific advice though the provision of formal statements and evidence in court.
Forensic Biology provides analytical and advisory services principally to the Queensland Police Service in the areas of evidence recovery, DNA analysis and result interpretation culminating in expert advice and evidence. In general, the Evidence Recovery team conducts examinations of exhibits, biological material screening and recovery of samples for further testing, the Analytical Team conducts DNA analysis, including interpretation of samples submitted, and the Reporting Team conducts DNA interpretation, statistical interpretation and the development of statements for court, including giving evidence in court.
The Case Review Team has been established to coordinate and triage the review of certain categories of DNA samples to determine whether further testing could provide valuable evidence to Queensland’s criminal justice system.
Our work at FSQ involves exposure to material related to deaths and criminal offences that may be confronting, due to its graphic and personal nature. Sensitive and professional management of exhibits and information is a critical requirement of this role. The successful candidate will have personal qualities that include well developed resilience, tact and effective strategies for managing themselves and their ability to support colleagues in situations that may be distressing and stressful.
The Deputy Director Forensic Operations (DDFO), reporting to the Director, will lead and oversee FSQ’s strategic and operational forensic services objectives, planning, budget and resources to ensure the provision of high-quality, contemporary forensic services and expert advice to the Queensland Police Service (QPS) and the Coroner’s Court of Queensland. The role is responsible for the effective delivery of strategic and operational policy support, resourcing pipelines and complex priority management that directly enables the agency’s forensic priorities and objectives.
A key voice in FSQ’s Strategic Leadership Group, the DDFO works with the Director and other stakeholders to continue to set and lead the transformation agenda for Forensic Service Queensland, leading FSQ toward its vision of becoming world-class in the delivery of quality, timely and innovative forensic services that support the integrity of the Queensland justice system.
Accountable to the Director, the DDFO’s key responsibilities will be providing executive leadership and strategic direction to the operational forensic divisions of FSQ, including the Forensic Biology, Forensic Chemistry and Case Review units. The role of the DDFO will be critical in ensuring that FSQ becomes the world-class agency that it seeks to be.
Responsible for an annual budget of approximately $32,000,000.00 and leadership of approximately 196 FTE, with band 4 HR delegations, this is a key strategic leadership role critical to the effective operations and improvement of FSQ.
Applicants are encouraged to review the Role Description and the links providing further information about the department to assist with understanding the recruitment and selection process.
To be considered for this role please provide the following information in your online application, for the assessment of your suitability:
Justine Eden, Director, Eden Ritchie Recruitment
0412 156 930 or fsq@edenritchie.com.au
Applications close 9th March 2026