"Animal Welfare and Compliance Officer"

•  494473
•  Townsville
•  Professional
•  Full time
•  Closing on: Feb 22 2026
• Full time (36.25 hpw) continuing position
• HEWL 7 - $99,878 - $110,446 + 17% Super
• Excellent benefits incl. flexible work arrangements, leave entitlements and leave loading 
• Competitive salary, university benefits, and a collaborative community.
• James Cook University – Townsville, on the Great Barrier Reef

Are you a veterinarian looking for a rewarding career beyond clinical practice—one that offers regular hours, no after‑hours callouts, professional stability, and the chance to make a meaningful contribution to animal welfare?

James Cook University (JCU) is seeking a passionate and forward‑thinking Animal Welfare and Compliance Officer to oversee our Program of Veterinary Care, as outlined in the Australian Code for the Care and Use of Animals for Scientific Purposes. This is an ideal opportunity for veterinarians who want a new challenge and the ability to influence best‑practice animal care in a world‑class research environment.

Why This Role?

• Work–life balance: Monday–Friday, predictable hours, no emergency on‑call duties.
• Career development: Build specialist knowledge in research animal care, ethics, compliance, and welfare science.
• Impact: Help shape the culture of humane and responsible animal use across a vibrant research university.
• Environment: Live and work in tropical North Queensland, with the Great Barrier Reef and rainforest on your doorstep.
• Stability & support: Competitive salary, university benefits, and a collaborative community.

About the Role

As the Animal Welfare and Compliance Officer, you will:

• Ensure JCU’s animal use complies with regulatory and Code requirements.
• Provide expert veterinary advice on best‑practice standards across medicine, surgery, husbandry, diagnostics, and disease prevention.
• Support researchers, academics, technical staff, and the Animal Ethics Committee in achieving high standards of welfare and ethical practice.
• Contribute to continuous improvement in animal care across teaching, research, and fieldwork.

A Unique, Diverse and Interesting Veterinary Career

JCU’s research and teaching portfolio covers an extraordinary range of species and environments—including wildlife, tropical veterinary science, marine science, aquaculture, biomedicine, and more. You’ll have the opportunity to collaborate with specialists across diverse disciplines and work with species you may not encounter in traditional practice.

This role is perfect for veterinarians who love learning, enjoy problem‑solving, value ethical practice, enjoy working with passionate professionals and are ready for a fulfilling next step that aligns passion with purpose.

Why work at JCU

JCU offers a supportive and inclusive work environment guided by our values of Excellence, Authenticity, Integrity and Respect. You’ll have the opportunity to contribute to meaningful outcomes for regional and rural communities while working with committed professionals in a purpose-driven university. We Offer:

• 5 weeks annual leave + leave loading
• Flexible work arrangements
• Up to 12 Months paid parental leave
• Salary packaging options
• Paid study leave & staff development programs
• Fitness Passport & health insurance discounts
• Free Employee Assistance Program (coaching & counselling)

How To Apply

Click the ‘apply’ button where you will be asked to complete an application form or alternatively, please apply directly via the via the JCU careers page and follow the below steps:

• Complete the application form
• Upload your current resume
• Upload a cover letter outlining your relevant experience in relation to the key requirements of the role and how your skills and experience will ensure your success in the role. 

For any enquiries about the role, please contact Craig Godfrey on (07) 4781 6543 or via email craig.godfrey@jcu.edu.au