"Allied Health Clinical Lead (OT)"

Job Description:

• Join JCU and Make a Difference in Rural Health!
• Work in a collaborative, supportive environment with a strong community focus.
• Help build a confident, skilled allied health workforce for rural and remote Queensland.
• Enjoy the lifestyle and community of beautiful Emerald.
• Full time 36.25 hpw | Fixed term Contract to 31 December 2026
• ACAD B $109,791 - $129,547 + 17% Super & excellent benefits

James Cook University’s Central Queensland Centre for Rural and Remote Health (CQCRRH) is seeking a passionate and experienced Allied Health Clinical Lead (OT) to join our dynamic team in Emerald. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative service-learning programs and help shape the future of rural and remote health care in Queensland.

About the Role

As the Allied Health Clinical Lead (OT), you’ll play a pivotal role in delivering student-assisted, interprofessional services to communities with high or unmet needs. You’ll collaborate with local health services, community stakeholders, and partner organisations to build a confident and capable allied health workforce across Central Queensland.

• Lead and support the delivery of student-assisted, interprofessional allied health services in rural and remote communities.
• Mentor and guide students, novice practitioners, and rural generalist trainees.
• Collaborate with local health services and community stakeholders to address unmet health needs.
• Contribute to research and evidence-based practice in rural health and workforce development

About You

• Recognised Occupational Therapy qualification and relevant postgraduate experience.
• Proven experience in rural and Indigenous health contexts.
• Commitment to innovative clinical education models.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in culturally diverse, geographically dispersed teams.
• Interdisciplinary/interprofessional practice experience.

The Central QLD Centre for Rural and Remote Health

The Central Queensland Centre for Rural and Remote Health (CQCRRH) is a federally funded University Department of Rural Health, part of a national network dedicated to strengthening the rural health workforce. Based in Emerald, CQCRRH is committed to delivering innovative, student-assisted, interprofessional health services to communities across rural, remote, and outback Queensland. Through strong partnerships with local health services and community stakeholders, CQCRRH supports workforce development, clinical education, and research that directly improves health outcomes in underserved regions.

Living in Emerald

Emerald offers a unique blend of professional fulfillment and relaxed rural living in the heart of Central Queensland. Known for its welcoming community, stunning natural landscapes like the Blackdown Tablelands and the Gemfields, and a laid-back lifestyle, Emerald is a place where health professionals can truly thrive. With minimal traffic, supportive management, and opportunities for career development, clinicians enjoy meaningful work while exploring some of Queensland’s most beautiful regions. Whether you're mentoring students, engaging with diverse communities, or simply enjoying the quiet charm of country life, Emerald is a gem of a place to live, work, and grow

Why JCU?

At JCU, we’re committed to making a difference in rural and remote health. You’ll be part of a dynamic team driving innovation, education, and community impact. We value reconciliation, sustainability, and equity—and we’re looking for someone who shares these values. We support and empower our people through the provisions of;

• A generous superannuation scheme with up to 17% employer contributions with UniSuper
• 36.25-hour full-time working week
• 5 weeks of annual recreation leave plus leave loading
• 15 days paid sick/carers leave per year
• Cash out annual leave and time in lieu options
• Up to 6 months paid parental leave
• A range of flexible working options
• Attractive options for salary packaging
• Staff study assistance and paid study leave
• Ongoing professional development support
• Fitness Passport
• Corporate discount on health insurance
• Free Employee Assistance Program (coaching and counselling)
• Relocation Assistance may be negotiated