Position overview

ACT Pathology is a division of Canberra Health Services with laboratories located at the Canberra and North Canberra Public Hospitals. Pathology provides diagnostic and consultative services to medical specialists and general practitioners and their patients in hospital and in the community.

The Diagnostic Genomics Department is a multidisciplinary laboratory delivering a broad range of services, including conventional cytogenetics, microarray technologies, Fluorescence In Situ Hybridisation (FISH), PCR‑based genetic testing, and Next Generation Sequencing. These services support the investigation of both constitutional and somatic genetic abnormalities.

This position offers the opportunity to join a dynamic and collaborative team, working under the guidance of the Chief Scientist and Senior Bioinformatician, to deliver a high‑quality Diagnostic Genomics service to the ACT and surrounding regions.

This position may require occasional weekend and after-hours work. Flexible working arrangements (e.g. flex time) apply in line with organisational policy.

Key Responsibilities

Specific responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following.

1. Build and support variant databases and online genomic tools that enable clinicians and genomic scientists to analyse, explore, and share genomic data.
2. Maintain genomic platforms, recommending suitable technologies and keeping up to date with approaches to variant data management.
3. Develop and maintain software and web tools, ensuring changes are tested, reviewed, and  fit for laboratory use. Including reliable integration with laboratory and clinical systems.
4. Provide specialist input and collaborate with teams to improve tools for variant interpretation and data access.
5. Assist with the training and mentoring of new staff within the department, contributing to a culture of continuous professional development.
6. Participate in quality management activities, including document maintenance and accurate record‑keeping in line with NATA requirements.
7. Undertake other duties appropriate with the level of classification that support the effective operation of the organisation.

Competencies

Specific competencies include but are not limited to the following.

• Strong organisational skills, including the ability to manage competing priorities, maintain attention to detail, and deliver high-quality outcomes.
• Demonstrated analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to evaluate complex information and make evidence-based decisions.
• Strong interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills.
• Adaptability and flexibility to respond to change and support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Well-developed computer literacy skills.
• Ability to guide, support and develop staff, foster collaboration, and contribute to a positive team culture.

Qualifications

Specific qualifications include, but are not limited to, the following.

Essential

• A Computer Science Degree or equivalent relevant degree.

Desirable

• Relevant Post Graduate qualifications.
• Understanding of how the National Safety and Quality Health Service (NSQHS) indicators align with this role.
• Understanding of National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) accreditation requirements for this role.

Experience

Specific experience include, but are not limited to, the following.

Essential

• Minimum of 1 year experience working in a human genomics setting.

Desirable

• Experience working in a diagnostic genomics laboratory.
• Experience or knowledge of the CHS Exceptional Care Framework and all other related frameworks.

Please note prior to commencement successful candidates will be required to:

• Undergo a pre-employment National Police Check.
• Current registration issued under the Working with Vulnerable People (Background Checking) Act 2011 is required.
• Comply with Canberra Health Services Occupational Assessment, Screening and Vaccination policy.
• Comply with CHS credentialing and scope of clinical practice requirements for allied health professionals.

Important information

All employees are required to:

• Adhere to the Canberra Health Services Values and the ACT Public Service Code of Conduct.
• Act in accordance and comply with all relevant Safety and Quality policies and procedures.

CHS is leading the drive to digitally transform health service delivery in Australia through the implementation of a territory wide Digital Health Record. Computer literacy skills are required which are relevant to this role as you will be responsible for completing the required documentation and becoming a proficient user of the Digital Health Record and/or other Information Technology systems; once proficient, you will need to remain current with changes, updates, and contingencies.

What you Require (Key Selection Criteria)

These are the key selection criteria for how you will be assessed in conjunction with your resumé and experience.

1. Demonstrated experience in the design, development, and maintenance of genomic variation databases, including sound database architecture, object‑oriented programming, user requirements analysis, and full‑stack software development across relevant technologies (e.g., Java/Grails, relational and NoSQL databases, web technologies, and cloud platforms).
2. Proven ability to integrate genomic databases and tools with clinical and laboratory systems, supporting variant interpretation and accredited laboratory workflows, including developing, testing, and maintaining stable, production‑ready systems.
3. Demonstrated commitment to ongoing professional development, including willingness to learn new technologies and keep knowledge up to date.
4. Well‑developed communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team and contribute positively to workplace culture.
5. Demonstrates understanding of, and adherence to, safety and quality standards, Work Health and Safety and the positive patient experience. Displays behaviour consistent with CHS’s values of reliable, progressive, respectful, and kind.

Work environment description

The following work environment description outlines the inherent requirements of the role and indicates how frequently each of these requirements would need to be performed. Please note that the ACT Public Service is committed to providing reasonable adjustments and ensuring all individuals have equal opportunities in the workplace.