Forensic Technician

Job description
Agency NT Police Force Work unit Forensic Science Branch, Forensic Biology Unit
Job title Forensic Technician Designation Technical 2
Job type Full time Duration Ongoing
Salary $70,859 - $79,902 Location Darwin
Position number 31771 RTF 354285 Closing 06/09/2026
Contact officer Casey Spanner, Manager – Forensic Biology Unit on 08 8922 1324 or casey.spanner@pfes.nt.gov.au
About the agency https://pfes.nt.gov.au/
Apply online https://jobs.nt.gov.au/Home/JobDetails?rtfId=354285
APPLICATIONS MUST INCLUDE A ONE-PAGE SUMMARY ABOUT YOU, A DETAILED RESUME AND COPIES OF
YOUR TERTIARY QUALIFICATIONS.
Information for applicants – inclusion and diversity and Special Measures recruitment plans
The NTPS values diversity. The NTPS encourages people from all diversity groups to apply for vacancies and accommodates
people with disability by making reasonable workplace adjustments. If you require an adjustment for the recruitment
process or job, please discuss this with the contact officer. For more information about applying for this position and the
merit process, go to the OCPE website.
Aboriginal applicants will be granted priority consideration for this vacancy. For more information on Special Measures
plans, go to the OCPE website.

Primary objective
To provide technical assistance to the Forensic Biology Unit in the investigation of crime by Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA)
analysis.

Key duties and responsibilities
1. Cleaning and decontamination of the laboratory and equipment required for the testing of DNA evidence.
2. General administration duties.
3. Maintain laboratory consumables including liaising with suppliers for orders and purchasing.
4. Maintenance and calibration of laboratory instruments.
5. Process reference samples and basic items of evidence used for investigative and evidentiary purposes.
6. Maintain the security and integrity of the data of the Northern Territory DNA Database whilst ensuring all legislative

and procedural policies are adhered to.
7. Ensure National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) forensic accreditation standards are maintained within the

laboratory.
8. Adhere to and maintain Workplace Health and Safety (WH&S), Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC)

requirements.

Selection criteria
Essential
1. Sound knowledge of laboratory techniques of a molecular biology laboratory or equivalent.
2. Knowledge and understanding of laboratory QA/QC programs and the legal implications of accreditation standards.
3. Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively including an ability to maintain confidentiality and impartiality.
4. Sound level of computer and information technology skills.
5. Demonstrated ability to work autonomously and part of a team to achieve results within strict deadlines.
6. Ability to communicate with suppliers and contractors to ensure an efficient delivery of services.
7. Proven ability to interact effectively with people of diverse backgrounds and cultures.
8. Understanding and a working knowledge Equity and Diversity practices and principles.

Desirable
1. Diploma in laboratory techniques (or equivalent).
2. Experience in a molecular biology laboratory, preferably a forensic biology laboratory.

Further information
1. Responsibilities may require an adjusted work schedule, overtime, and evening/weekend hours to meet the operational

requirements of the Forensic Biology Unit.
2. The successful applicant must have no significant criminal record confirmed by a Police criminal history check and

provide DNA and fingerprint samples for comparison and retention.
3. The work of the FBU can be confronting and there is high risk of exposure to distressing material and information. The

psychological wellbeing of all members of the FBU is a priority and as such, members are required to attend annual Well
Checks. The applicant must be accepting of the expectation to seek support and engage with psychological services
when appropriate.

4. This position is subject to the conditions of the Northern Territory Public Sector 2025-2029 Enterprise Agreement.