Federation University Australia, located primarily in Ballarat, Victoria, is a dynamic public university serving regional Australia. Established in 2014 through the merger of the University of Ballarat and the Gippsland campuses of Monash University, it has grown into a key player in higher education, offering programs across multiple campuses including Berwick, Gippsland, and online options. With a student body exceeding 20,000, the university emphasizes practical, industry-aligned education, making it an attractive destination for academic professionals seeking meaningful careers.
Jobs at Federation University span teaching, research, and administration, catering to those passionate about contributing to regional development in Australia. The Ballarat campus, the largest, hosts faculties in engineering, business, health, and education, providing opportunities in a supportive environment focused on innovation and community impact.
The roots of Federation University trace back to 1870 with the establishment of the Ballarat School of Mines, one of Australia's oldest technical institutions. Over decades, it evolved into the University of Ballarat, gaining full university status in 1990. The 2014 merger expanded its reach, incorporating Gippsland's strengths in IT and sciences. Today, it stands as a dual-sector university, offering both higher education degrees and vocational training through Federation TAFE.
This history underscores a commitment to accessible education in regional Victoria, influencing job opportunities that blend traditional academic roles with vocational teaching. Understanding this background helps job seekers appreciate the university's focus on practical skills and community engagement.
Federation University offers over 400 programs, from certificates to PhDs, across nine schools: Business, Education, Engineering and Mathematics, Health, Humanities and Social Sciences, Information Technology, Mine Engineering, Science and Arts, and Tertiary Education and Workforce Training. Popular areas include nursing, mining engineering, and IT, reflecting Ballarat's industrial heritage and Victoria's needs.
Faculty jobs often involve delivering these programs, with emphasis on work-integrated learning. Researchers contribute to centers like the Centre for Collaborative Research, focusing on sustainability and health.
Careers at Federation University include lecturer jobs, senior lecturers, associate professors, and professors in academic fields. Research positions like research assistants and postdocs are common, alongside administrative roles in student services and HR. Explore higher ed faculty jobs or research assistant jobs for specifics.
To aid understanding, here are key terms for jobs at Federation University:
For teaching roles like lecturers, a PhD in the relevant field is standard, though a Master's with significant experience suffices for some entry-level positions. Administrative jobs may require bachelor's degrees in business or HR. Nursing and engineering roles demand professional registrations alongside academic credentials. International applicants must have qualifications recognized by Australian authorities like TEQSA (Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency).
Federation prioritizes applied research addressing regional challenges, such as sustainable mining, rural health, and digital transformation. Expertise in renewable energy, given Victoria's transition from coal, or Indigenous health is advantageous. See postdoctoral success for thriving in such roles.
Candidates with 3+ years teaching, 5+ publications in refereed journals, and grant success stand out. Industry experience, especially in mining or healthcare, is valued. For research jobs, prior research assistant experience in Australia is ideal. Leadership in professional bodies adds edge.
Essential skills include excellent communication, student-centered teaching, data analysis, and grant writing. Competencies like cultural safety for diverse students and digital tool proficiency (e.g., Moodle) are key. Soft skills such as teamwork and adaptability suit the collaborative regional setting.
Applications go through the university's online portal at federation.edu.au/careers. Submit CV, cover letter, selection criteria responses, and references. Tips:
Follow up post-submission. Learn academic CV tips.
Federation University champions diversity via its Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan, supporting Indigenous employment. The Gender Equality Action Plan targets STEM equity, with scholarships for women. Accessibility programs aid disabled staff, and multicultural networks foster inclusion. In 2023, 15% staff identified as Indigenous or multicultural, above national averages.
Ballarat campus features scenic gardens, sports facilities, and childcare. Flexible work, 17% remote options, and 4 weeks annual leave promote balance. Employee Assistance Programs offer counseling. Community events like staff barbecues build camaraderie. Proximity to Melbourne (1.5 hours) balances regional calm with city access.
Professional development includes teaching workshops, research funding support, and leadership programs. Access to higher ed career advice enhances growth. Partnerships with industries provide sabbaticals.
Federation University offers rewarding jobs at Federation University in higher education, from faculty to research roles. Explore higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job on AcademicJobs.com to advance your career in Victoria, Australia.
