- 495927
- Townsville
- Professional
- Full time
- Closing on: Nov 8 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 one of Australia's leading tropical marine research universities and contribute to research that informs the sustainable management of marine and coastal environments.
Use your operational and strategic experience to support the establishment of the new Tropical Marine and Coastal Institute and the delivery of world-class tropical marine and coastal research. You will provide strategic, financial and business expertise to establish its operations and governance, guide strategic projects, strengthen governance and risk management, and build productive relationships that support the Institute’s priorities and long-term sustainability.
This is a fixed-term appointment for an initial 12 months, with the potential for a longer-term opportunity following the initial project.
- Full-time, fixed term for 12 months | 36.25 hours per week
- Based at JCU’s Bebegu Yumba campus in Townsville, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and tropical North Queensland
- HEWL 8: $111,960 - $128,567 per annum plus up to 17% superannuation
ABOUT THE ROLE
As Institute Operations Manager, you will help translate the Tropical Marine and Coastal Institute’s strategic priorities into practical and sustainable outcomes. Providing subject matter expertise and high-level project management, you will oversee key operational activities, contribute to budgeting and forecasting, and provide informed financial and business advice.
Working closely with senior leaders and stakeholders, you will ensure operational priorities, projects and risks are clearly communicated and effectively managed. You will build productive internal and external relationships, support governance and compliance, and drive improvements to the processes and procedures that enable the Institute to deliver efficient, high-quality services.
WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THE ROLE
You will bring substantial experience in financial, business and strategic planning within a large or complex organisation, including the preparation of business cases, forecasts, plans and high-level reports. Your background will demonstrate an ability to develop and implement business strategies that support both operational delivery and longer-term organisational objectives.
A confident communicator and collaborative relationship builder, you can work effectively with stakeholders at varying levels to achieve shared outcomes. You will also bring exceptional organisation, sound judgement and strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and develop practical solutions to complex issues. An understanding of marine and coastal research and the broader higher education and research environment will be highly regarded.
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
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:
- 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 Richard Cook at richard.cook1@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.