Contractor Safety & Authorisation Lead

Lead the implementation of the University’s new contractor safety framework

Be the University’s subject matter expert for contractor high-risk work safety

Drive safer, more consistent practices across campuses and operational teams

Be Bold. Belong. Be More.At Southern Cross University, we do things differently, and so can you.A career with us is more than you might expect. Yes, it’s about the heart, connectedness and community you’d hope for in a regional university. But there’s also so much more. Our game changing Southern Cross Model brings a deeper, focused learning experience and our research is deeply connected to our regions, making a difference on a global scale. This is your chance to help us build something new and meaningful for our students, our communities and your career. To drive change, make a real impact, and thrive in a place as unique as you.You can be good anywhere. Here, you can be great.

Your opportunitySouthern Cross University is creating a new Contractor Safety & Authorisation Lead role to strengthen contractor safety, high-risk work controls and operational risk management across the University.Recent reviews identified an opportunity to improve consistency, visibility and assurance across contractor engagement and high-risk work activities. While robust procedures and frameworks have been developed, the University is seeking an experienced safety professional to lead their implementation and ensure these controls are embedded effectively across campuses and operational areas.Acting as the University’s subject matter expert, you will provide leadership, advice and assurance across contractor safety and Authority to Work processes, helping Property Services, Faculties and operational teams understand their obligations, apply effective controls and make sound risk decisions. This is a highly visible role that combines governance, operational engagement and continuous improvement to deliver safer outcomes across the University.

You will make an impact by:

Leading the implementation and ongoing management of the University’s contractor safety and Authority to Work Frameworks

Providing assurance that critical controls, permits and safety requirements are effectively applied across contractor and internal work activities

Supporting leaders, supervisors and operational teams to identify, assess and manage critical risks associated with high-risk work

Monitoring contractor safety performance, identifying emerging risks and driving improvements to systems, processes, and governance

Acting as the University’s specialist advisor on contractor safety, influencing consistent and defensible risk management practices across campuses

What you will bringYou are a practical and credible safety professional who understands how operational environments work and how to build systems that people can apply in practice. You enjoy working with leaders and frontline teams, asking the right questions and verifying that risk controls are genuinely working rather than simply existing on paper.You bring strong judgement, the ability to influence stakeholders and the confidence to challenge unsafe practices while supporting operational teams to achieve positive outcomes. You are equally comfortable working on governance and assurance activities as you are engaging directly with managers, supervisors and contractors.

To succeed in this role, you will also need:

Demonstrated experience in contractor safety, permit-to-work or operational safety systemsStrong knowledge of WHS legislation, officer duties, contractor management and critical risk controlsExperience implementing, auditing or assuring safety systems and verifying that controls are effectively applied in practiceProven ability to influence leaders, build capability and provide practical guidance in complex operational environmentsExcellent stakeholder engagement skills, sound judgment and the ability to make defensible decisions regarding safety risks

Experience within facilities, construction, infrastructure, maintenance, utilities, or other asset-intensive environments will be highly regarded, as will qualifications in work health and safety, engineering, building or a related discipline.

Why Southern Cross UniversitySCU is proudly a regional university, young, small and vibrant. That means you’ll find more exposure, opportunity and ownership - to grow, achieve and build a career that means more. And you’ll do it alongside passionate people and leaders who go the extra mile to help you succeed.

A career with us is about more than just work. It’s about place, community and the life you want to live. With three main campuses at the Gold Coast, Coffs Harbour and the Northern Rivers region of NSW, we’re integral to all these wonderful communities. Find your place and be more in this beautiful part of the world.

Your opportunity is:

Full-time, fixed term 12 monthsLocated at Lismore, NSW 2480.HEW Level 8. The base salary ranges from $120,756 - $133,154, per annum, plus 17% employer’s contribution to superannuation. The total remuneration package is up to $155,790.

You will enjoy a range of perks designed to support your wellbeing, growth and work-life balance. For more information on our benefits and what it’s like to work at SCU, visit Why work at Southern Cross University?

Be more with Southern Cross University todaySouthern Cross University values potential as much as experience. If you do not meet all the listed requirements but are excited about the role and confident you can contribute, we encourage you to apply or reach out for more information.Name: Vivian Cormier Email: Jobs@scu.edu.au

Applications close 11.30pm AEST 19 July 2026.Eligible applicants must have Australian or New Zealand citizenship, Australian permanent residency or current working rights in Australia for the entire duration of the appointment. Employer visa sponsorship is not available for this position.Applicants must apply online and attach a CV and cover letter. The cover letter must clearly address each selection criterion in the position description. Information to support you prepare your application is available on our website.

Southern Cross University celebrates the rich diversity of our regions and international community. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace that welcomes and values people of all backgrounds. We encourage applications from people of all genders, ethnicities, ages, languages, sexual orientations, and people with disabilities. We are dedicated to providing reasonable adjustments to our recruitment process to ensure every candidate can fully participate.For any support through the recruitment process reach out to jobs@scu.edu.au.

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