We are SGS – the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 99,600 employees operate a network of 2,600 offices and laboratories around the world.

We’re seeking a full-time Phycologist to join our Water Laboratory team in a permanent role. You'll be responsible for routine microbiological and algal testing, supporting SGS’s analytical capabilities in water quality, including algae identification, microbiological assessments, and BOD analysis.

Experience with identifying freshwater microalgae and cyanobacteria is highly regarded, and candidates with strong academic or research backgrounds in these areas are also encouraged to apply.

Your key responsibilities in this role will include but are not limited to:

• Perform routine preparation and analysis of freshwater and wastewater samples for algal counts, species identification, and biovolume calculations with minimal supervision.
• Analyse samples within their specified holding times and ensure results are delivered by the established turn around time.
• Maintain a clean and well-organized laboratory environment, ensuring equipment is properly maintained and protected to prevent contamination and safeguard company assets.
• Support data validation processes for technical reports to ensure accuracy and reliability.
• Conduct scheduled calibration and maintenance of instruments in compliance with written procedures.
• Adhere to laboratory QA/QC criteria and NATA accreditation requirements, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
• Ensure that safety equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE) are utilised as required.
• Report any unsafe work conditions or equipment malfunctions to the manager immediately.
• Keep updating and enhance skills, qualifications, and knowledge to remain current in the field.
• Perform additional duties as directed by the Laboratory Operations Manager.

Required: 

• Graduate degree in Science, with the a background in Phycology, Marine Biology, Aquatic Biology, Aquatic Ecology or Aquaculture.
• 1–3 years of algal identification experience (industrial or academic), with demonstrated ability to identify microalgae and cyanobacteria — general algal handling experience is not sufficient.
• Experience with Microscope. 

Desirable:

• NATA accreditation laboratory experience.
• Microbiological laboratory skills.

WHY WORK FOR SGS?

Working at SGS means joining an innovative, Global company. Here are some of the benefits to working for SGS. 

•    As a company, we have embraced the shift to flexible work
•    Sustainability is embedded in our culture and the way we do business
•    Paid parental leave
•    Paid time for volunteering day and blood donations
•    Corporate health & wellbeing offers
•    Ongoing learning & development 
•    Career development opportunities (Nationally and Globally)
•    SGS Rewards: Our employee benefits platform with access to retail and online discounts and cashback

COME TO WORK AND BE 100% YOU

SGS Australia supports a diverse workforce, we encourage applications from people of all ages, nationalities, abilities, and cultures – including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, the LGBTQI+ community and people living with disability. Providing employment opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is an important part of our SGS Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). We truly believe the diversity among us will continue to foster a strong, innovative, and forward-thinking workplace.

SGS Australia acknowledges and pays respect to the past, present and future Traditional Custodians and Elders of this nation and the continuation of cultural, spiritual, and educational practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.