Principal Quality Officer

The Internal Audit Unit is part of the Forensic Services Group of the QPS. The Unit forms part of the Quality Management Section and provides support across Forensic Services Group to maintain the quality management system. The Unit works closely with Forensic Managers to monitor compliance with policies and procedures and implement corrective action when non-compliance occurs.

The team provides assurance to all agencies involved in the administration of justice that standards are being met in line with the requirements of the National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) and the ISO17025 international standard.

The Principal Quality Advisor will lead the assessment of compliance with NATA requirements, internal policies and procedures and overview the appropriateness of corrective action undertaken when non-compliance occurs.

The core capability requirements for this role are:

• Lead a team to establish and maintain NATA accreditation as per NATA requirements for testing and calibration laboratories.
• Provide high level policy advice on initiatives and best practice regarding compliance and the development of a quality management system to meet current contemporary standards and future operational needs of Forensic Services Group.
• Lead the research, planning, analysis and interpretation of audit findings and corrective action outcomes and provide high level advice to senior personnel on current state and direction of the quality management system.
• Manage business improvement initiatives to ensure systems, procedures and processes meet compliance with NATA requirements and the ISO17025 international standard.

• Provide high level advice on outcomes of audits and validations, and ensure they meet best practice expectations as outlined in NATA requirements and the ISO17025 international standard.

• Provide quality support and assistance to areas seeking additions to scope of accreditation.

• Establish and maintain appropriated communication, liaison, and reporting procedures to support the Superintendent Forensic Services Group.

• Develop effective relationships with and provide high quality advice, support and services to internal and external clients and stakeholders.

Role Requirements:

Educational experience

• A relevant tertiary qualification in science is highly desirable.

Other

• Knowledge, experience in quality assurance, leading audits and/or administration of NATA accreditation requirements would be highly desirable.

• The incumbent may be required to travel and work within the area of responsibility and may also be required to undertake occasional intrastate and interstate travel as required.

Applications to remain current for 12 months.