Laboratory Chemist

About the Role

Reporting to the Laboratory Operations Manager, the Laboratory Chemist will join our LAB team full-time at our South Guildford location. The primary responsibility is to ensure accurate fluid sample analysis—oil, coolant, fuel, Patch, filter gram analysis and grease, by validating lab techniques and results in accordance with the WesTrac Laboratory Quality Manual. This role drives continuous improvement, conducts audits and establishes best practices as the Subject Matter Expert. Act as the backup and support for the laboratory Supervisor during periods of absence.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead by example, demonstrating WesTrac values through actions, behaviours, and decision making.
• Validate laboratory techniques and results for fluid sample analyses (oil, coolant, fuel, grease) to ensure compliance with the WesTrac Laboratory Quality Manual.
• Provide expert guidance, serving as the Subject Matter Expert (SME) for laboratory testing processes and recommending improvements to the Laboratory Operations Manager.
• Supervise and develop team members, overseeing Quality Systems Support and Maintenance Coordinators through coaching, training.
• Maintain high-quality standards, conducting audits and ensuring continuous improvement of scientific methodologies in line with CAT SOS, ISO and NATA standards.
• Troubleshoot laboratory processes, performing root cause analysis (RCA) on reported quality issues and monitoring mean time between failure (MTBF) for lab instruments.
• Collaborate on efficiency enhancements, working closely with the Laboratory Supervisor and Quality Support to optimise rerun rates within KPIs.
• Contribute to innovation, identifying opportunities for expanding product offerings and increasing customer engagement through process improvements.

Skills and Experience

• Tertiary degree in Chemistry (minimum requirement).
• Laboratory QA/QC experience.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• At least 5 years of laboratory experience.
• Leadership experience managing a team.
• Strong analytical skills and high attention to detail.
• Extensive hands-on experience with laboratory techniques and instruments.
• Familiarity with ASTM and ISO standards and best practices.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.

Benefits

• Financial Benefits – Paid Parental Leave & Secondary Carers Leave, Salary Sacrificing, Novated Leasing, Income Protection Insurance & More than 600 retail discounts such as Coles, Petbarn, Virgin, HOYTS & Crown.
• Health & Wellness – Discounts with BUPA, Fitness Passport to access multiple gyms across Australia & EAP access to support you and your immediate family.
• Culture & Career – Personal and Team Recognition (Made for More Awards), Internal Career Progression, Training & Upskilling through our award-winning WesTrac Institute.
• Recommend & Spend – Opportunity to receive a referral bonus up to $5000 for applicable roles.
• Additional Perks – Emergency Services Leave, Defence Force Reserves Leave & Employee Share Purchase Plan opportunity

Our Company & Commitment

With over 4,500 employees, WesTrac is one of the world's largest authorised Cat® equipment dealers, offering a wide range of mining and construction equipment and management solutions.

At WesTrac, we reflect diverse communities, celebrate our people's diversity, and create a culture where employees feel safe to be their authentic selves. We encourage applications from First Nations people, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and those from culturally diverse backgrounds. WORK180 endorsed employer for our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equality.

Reference Number : 6264