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In Melbourne, water is essential to our way of life.
As caretakers for Melbourne’s water cycle, we care for water, life and land throughout Melbourne: both its people and its biodiversity.
Each time you drink from the tap, flush a toilet or kayak down the Yarra, we’re there. Primed and ready, quietly delivering some of the world’s cleanest water for over five million residents and wildlife that call Melbourne home, just as we have for over 130 years.
If you value making it count, diving in with curiosity, and doing what’s right, you're in the right place.
A part-time (0.6) contract through until 30 October 2026, you will report to the WTP Laboratory and Solids Management Area Lead. You will play a key role in our Molecular Biology Laboratory at the Western Treatment Plant. As a Molecular Biologist, you will lead molecular assays that support monitoring programs for protozoa and blue green algae, ensuring that Melbourne Water continues to deliver safe drinking water, recycled water and environmental services to the highest standard. You will be responsible for:
• Delivering and reporting molecular biology assays for monitoring programs• Developing, validating and commissioning new assays that support emerging business needs• Ensuring the laboratory is equipped, maintained and stocked within allocated budgets• Providing technical expertise on molecular biology and microbiology across the business• Analysing, troubleshooting and interpreting assay results• Collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to identify opportunities for improvement
You are a curious, collaborative scientist who brings strong technical capability, clear communication and a practical approach to problem solving. You work well both independently and within a team and want to contribute to meaningful outcomes that benefit communities and the environment. You will bring:
• Experience with core molecular biology techniques, including nucleic acid extraction, PCR and qPCR• Capability in sequencing workflows and interpreting sequence data• Experience developing or applying diagnostic tools such as RPA, LAMP, CRISPR or ELISA• Experience with molecular or microbiological assays relevant to water quality• Strong collaborative and stakeholder communication skills• PhD in molecular biology, microbiology or a related field
For more information, please review the attached position description: Position Description - Molecular Biologist.pdf
At Melbourne Water, we care about water and all life that springs from it.
Our people are fuelled by passion, and with safety at the forefront, we have an unwavering sense of purpose, and are on a mission to protect every Melburnian’s way of life, one drop at a time.
We walk the talk when it comes to flexible working – but that’s not all. Our culture of purpose, safety, results, and learning permeates everything we do. We're dedicated to doing what's right, and this commitment extends to the meaningful work we do in a supportive and inclusive culture that encourages you to make the most of your talents.
Our long-standing commitment to Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging means that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, LGBTIQ+ individuals, neurodivergent individuals, people living with disability, mature age and young jobseekers from all cultures can apply with confidence knowing they are safe, affirmed, and celebrated.
If you’re curious, action-orientated, outcomes-focused, and care deeply for public resources, community, and the environment, we'd love to receive an application and learn if you could be a great fit.
Click the 'Apply Now' button below and complete our online application form.
Closing date: 9 March 2026 at 11:55pm AEST
Apply now Back
Lead molecular assays that support monitoring programs for protozoa and blue-green algae
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