- 496063
- Townsville
- Professional
- Full time
- Closing on: Nov 10 2026
James Cook University (JCU) is creating a brighter future for life in the Tropics and beyond, through education and research that makes a difference locally and globally.
Join JCU's Graduate Research School and play an important role in supporting the next generation of researchers. Working closely with Higher Degree by Research (HDR) candidates, academic supervisors and University stakeholders, you will provide specialist administrative support across the research journey, helping students successfully navigate candidature milestones from admission through to completion. In this rewarding and varied role, you'll combine customer service, organisation and problem-solving skills to deliver a positive experience for our research community.
- Full-time, continuing opportunity | 36.25 hours per week
- Based at the Townsville Bebegu Yumba campus, Douglas
- HEWL 5: $78,740.99 - $89,310.33 per annum plus up to 17% superannuation
ABOUT THE ROLE
As the HDR Program Support Officer, you will be a key contact for Higher Degree by Research candidates and supervisors, helping students navigate important candidature through every stage of their research journey. Working within the Graduate Research School, you will provide specialist administrative support, ensure important milestones stay on track and contribute to a positive experience for JCU's research community.
You will collaborate with academic and professional staff across the University to support committee activities, respond to enquiries and contribute to continuous improvements that enhance the HDR candidate experience
WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THE ROLE
You will bring knowledge of HDR candidature management, including enrolment, progression and completion requirements, together with an understanding of the importance of accuracy, policy compliance and attention to detail.
With strong written and interpersonal communication skills, you will be comfortable assisting people from varied backgrounds and managing a high volume of enquiries. You will use sound judgement and problem-solving skills to provide clear information about processes and procedures, supported by confidence using Microsoft applications, databases and other computerised systems.
Well organised and responsive, you will be able to balance competing deadlines, work independently and contribute positively as part of a collaborative team. You will also hold qualifications and experience appropriate to the requirements of the role.
WHY JCU
JCU offers a dynamic and culturally diverse workplace where your ideas are valued, your professional growth is supported, and your work-life balance is respected. Working under the values of Authenticity, Excellence, Integrity, and Respect, we support and empower our people through the provisions of;
- A generous superannuation scheme with up to 17% employer contributions with UniSuper
- 5 weeks of annual recreation leave plus leave loading
- 15 days paid sick/carers leave per year
- Up to 6 months paid parental leave
- A range of flexible working options
- 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)
- Well-equipped modern facilities and contemporary workspaces with access to on-site childcare and medical services at our Townsville campus
Eligibility: Please note that current students are not eligible to apply for this position.
HOW TO APPLY
Are you ready to make a difference? Join us at JCU, where your future meets the tropics.
Click the ‘apply’ button to be redirected to the JCU careers page, create an applicant account and follow the steps below:
Please note that current students are not eligible to apply for this position.
- 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 Gabby Ryan at gabby.ryan@jcu.edu.au
ABOUT OUR PROCESS
At JCU, we are committed to employing individuals who meet the requirements of the role and align with our values. All applicants will be contacted and advised of an outcome once the recruitment process is finalised.
Please visit our Information Privacy Policy to understand how your information is collected, stored, accessed and used.
James Cook University encourages people from all backgrounds who meet the role requirements to apply. We value and celebrate the diversity of our community and are committed to providing a safe, inclusive and welcoming learning and working environment.