"Laboratory and Technical Support Advisor (Marine and Terrestrial)"

•  494488
•  Townsville
•  Professional
•  Full time
•  Closing on: Feb 15 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.

We now have an exciting opportunity for an energetic and experienced Laboratory and Technical Support Advisor to join our Marine and Terrestrial team.

• Full time; 36.25 hours per week
• Based at our Townsville Bebegu Yumba campus
• HEWL 6: $90,821 - $98,369 per year plus up to 17% employer superannuation contributions, leave loading and other generous employee benefits 

WHAT YOU CAN ACCOMPLISH IN THE ROLE

The Laboratory and Technical Support Advisor provides high-quality, hands-on technical support for undergraduate and postgraduate laboratory classes, field trips, workshops, and research activities within the Marine and Terrestrial team. This role ensures compliance with safety, hygiene, and Work Health and Safety (WHS) standards, contributes to positive learning outcomes, and maintains laboratories, technical facilities, and equipment to meet academic and operational objectives. Tasks and responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Set up of equipment, materials, and resources for practical classes, field trips, intensives, and workshops, and operation of technical equipment during classes as required by academic staff.
• Provide advice on technical aspects of equipment and safe operational procedures in accordance with WHS protocols.
• Clear, clean, and reset teaching spaces and laboratories at the conclusion of classes, ensuring equipment and consumables are stored appropriately and waste streams are managed in line with safety requirements.
• Undertake routine maintenance, calibration, and minor repairs of laboratory and field equipment, and coordinate external servicing and upgrades as required.
• Maintain up-to-date risk assessments, WHS documentation, and safety signage for assigned teaching and research laboratories, conducting inductions and participating in audits and compliance activities.

WHAT YOU CAN BRING TO THE ROLE

• Degree qualifications in Marine Biology, Ecology or a related field with extensive related experience or a combination of education/training.
• Demonstrated experience in laboratory and field support, including boating and diving, with knowledge of related policy and procedures, and use of technical equipment.
• Proven understanding of Work, Health and Safety legislation and its practical application to deliver a safety compliant work or learning environment.
• Demonstrated functional supervisory skills with the ability to show leadership, oversee the delivery of quality performance outcomes, and engage staff to achieve targets and improve safety performance.
• Significant organisational, problem solving and administrative skills, with the ability to prioritise and meet competing deadlines, and an established record of exercising judgement and initiative in a complex work environment.
• Well-developed verbal communication and interpersonal skills with proven ability to maintain highly effective working relationships, including demonstrated ability to consult and liaise with staff from all levels of University and external parties.

Special Conditions

• This position may provide functional supervision on occasion to visitors or new staff.
• This position will be required to work evenings and weekends on occasion.
• It is a requirement of this position to hold:
• Current Queensland Recreational Boating License (Coxswain preferred);
• Divemaster or ADAS certifications;
• Current First Aid Certificate;
• Current ‘C’ Class Queensland driver license; and
• Current Working with Children Blue Card.

SHAPE YOUR FUTURE WITH JCU

At JCU we’re not just shaping minds; we’re shaping the future.

As Australia’s only university established to focus on the issues of Northern Australia and the Tropics worldwide, JCU is dedicated to helping the world’s tropical regions to prosper. With our main campuses located in the vibrant and diverse tropics of Northern Queensland, JCU is at the forefront of research and education in some of the world’s most critical areas, including marine biology, environmental science, tropical and rural health, and more.

Find out more about JCU and our locations.

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 and Cairns’ campuses

HOW TO APPLY AND CONTACT DETAILS

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 and follow the below steps:

1. Complete the application form
2. Upload your current resume
3. 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 questions or further information relating to the role please email - Anna anna.peckham@jcu.edu.au 

Applications close onSunday, 15th February at 11:55 PM AEST.

James Cook University encourages people from all backgrounds who meet role requirements to apply. We value and celebrate the diversity of our community, and are committed to ensuring our community, and are committed to ensuring our learning and working environment is safe and welcoming.

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.