How to apply for a position at ANSTO
Each position advertised on the ANSTO website contains an advertisement, selection criteria and position description that can be downloaded and should form the basis of your application.
Your application should contain the following:
1) Cover Letter.
2) Curriculum Vitae (Resume).
3) Statement addressing the selection criteria describing how you consider yourself suitable against each of the selection criteria.
Submitting an application
ANSTO uses selection criteria as part of the job application process setting common factors to assess candidate applications.
Selection criteria describes the skills, abilities, knowledge, qualifications (if any) and personal qualities an individual needs to perform a role effectively.
Selection criteria makes it possible to compare people with different backgrounds and experience and ensures the process is fair to all applicants.
Addressing Selection Criteria
The key to effectively addressing selection criteria is to:
- Demonstrate capability by providing evidence of how you meet the selection criteria.
- Provide specific examples.
- Where possible, include an indicator of success or results.
You should ensure that:
- There are no errors anywhere in the document.
- The document is formatted neatly.
- The sentences are grammatically correct.
- It is also helpful if your name is on each page of the document.
When writing your selection criteria ensure you:
- Use positive and concise language
It is important to avoid ambiguous or unclear expressions such as "involved in" or "assisted". These expressions make it difficult for the reader to understand exactly what you did. Words and phrases that reduce credibility should also be avoided (i.e. some, a little, limited etc).
- Avoid unsupported claims about capabilities
It is important that any statements made are supported. For example, rather than simply saying , "my customers were always satisfied", you could substantiate this assertion in the following way: "I received no customer complaints due to my high level of customer service".
- Re-read the criteria and you responses to ensure that you have addressed all aspects of the criteria.
Late applications
Late applications will not be accepted. An expression of interest does not constitute a full application and will not be considered during the shortlist process. The Selection Committee will not normally follow up additional information where an expression of interest has been lodged and a complete application has not been received.
Shortlisting
Shortlisting of applicants would be expected to commence soon after the closing date for applications. All applicants will be notified of the outcome of the shortlisting process. The timeframe for shortlisting will depend on the size of the field, and may take several weeks to complete. The Selection Committee will shortlist applicants against the selection criteria and only those applicants who demonstrate the strongest claims will be selected for interview. Applicants not selected for interview will be notified via email.
Interview process
If you have been selected as a short listed candidate you will be contacted by an ANSTO Staff member and invited to attend an interview.
Interviews are conducted by a panel of interviewers. Interview questions are structured and based on the selection criteria associated with the position for which you have applied.
Preparing for an interview
In order to prepare for the interview you should review the selection criteria and consider examples of how you have demonstrated the criteria in your current and/or previous employment. The panel will be looking for specific examples rather than a hypothetical; they want to hear about your personal involvement. Your response needs to be detailed and specific and need to frame the situation, explain your involvement and outline the result.
If you are selected as the successful applicant for the position you will be required to undergo a security and medical assessment. Further details of which will be discussed with you at interview stage.
All offers of employment at ANSTO are subject to satisfying security, medical and citizenship requirements.