Phycologist (Algal Biologist)

SGS Australia is a leading provider of Testing, Inspection, and Certification services, supporting multiple industries across the country with trusted expertise and technical excellence. Backed by SGS’s global legacy of over 140 years, we operate one of the largest networks of accredited laboratories and field facilities in Australia, with a network of more than 50 offices and laboratories and over 1,400 employees across Australia. We are accredited by NATA and ISO 9001, ensuring our services meet both Australian and international standards.

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.

About you

A qualified Phycologist (with a minor in Microbiology) to join our Water Laboratory, supporting routine algae and microbiological testing.

Required:

• A graduate degree in Science, with a background in Phycology, Marine Biology, Aquatic Biology, Aquatic Ecology, or Aquaculture.
• 1–3 years of experience in algal identification (academic or industry), with the demonstrated ability to accurately identify microalgae and cyanobacteria. Please note that general algal handling experience alone is not sufficient.
• Hands-on microscopy experience, including identification and analysis of algal species.
• Experience in Microbiological laboratory techniques. 
• Experience working in a NATA-accredited laboratory, with the competence to perform duties at a Microbiology laboratory signatory level.

Apply Now

If you are passionate about aquatic science and want to make an impact in water testing and environmental monitoring, this is a great opportunity to apply your skills in a supportive and professional laboratory environment. Apply now to join our team and contribute to high-quality testing that supports environmental and public safety.

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.