"Senior Academic Lead, Allied Health and Nursing"

•  493849
•  Mount Isa
•  Academic
•  Full time
•  Closing on: Mar 15 2026
• Full time - 36.25 hours per week
• Fixed term to 31 December 2026
• Ideally based in Mt Isa but will consider other locations in the MCRRH Footprint 
• Lead impactful training programs that strengthen the rural and remote allied health workforce.
• Work closely with communities, partners and health services to deliver meaningful, culturally grounded education.
• Shape the next generation of practitioners while enjoying a rewarding leadership role in North-West Queensland.
• Academic Level C - $137,166 - $157,465 + 17% super & excellent benefits

Make a real impact in rural and remote health while shaping the next generation of allied health and nursing professionals. James Cook University’s Murtupuni Centre for Rural and Remote Health (MCRRH) is seeking a dynamic and values-driven Senior Academic Lead to guide our Allied Health & Nursing Service Learning Program and workforce development initiatives across North-West Queensland.

The Opportunity

In this pivotal leadership role, you will oversee the planning, delivery, and evaluation of high-quality allied health and nursing student placements across the region. Working closely with health services, community organisations, Traditional Owners, and educational partners, you will help strengthen clinical training pathways and build a confident, capable rural health workforce.

You will lead a geographically dispersed team, mentor novice practitioners and rural generalist trainees, contribute to research and evaluation activities, and promote culturally responsive, community-centred learning experiences.

This is a unique opportunity to influence health outcomes for rural and Indigenous communities while developing innovative, place-based education models.

What You’ll Bring

• A recognised Allied Health or Nursing qualification plus relevant postgraduate training.
• Senior professional experience in remote or Indigenous health contexts.
• Clinical expertise in community rehabilitation and/or paediatrics.
• Strong teaching capability and experience operating in rural health education settings.
• Proven project or program management skills.
• Demonstrated cultural capability and experience leading diverse, geographically dispersed teams.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Desirable: experience with service-learning models, leadership in tertiary or professional education, and a research track record aligned to opportunity.

Why JCU & MCRRH?

• Help improve health equity for rural and remote communities.
• Work in a supportive, collaborative environment deeply connected to community.
• Lead meaningful programs with real-world impact.
• Enjoy the lifestyle and unique opportunities of Mount Isa and the North-West Queensland region.

How to Apply 

Don't miss this exceptional opportunity to advance your career and make a meaningful difference. Apply now and become part of our dynamic team at the forefront of rural and remote healthcare.

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:

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 enquiries about the role, please contact Katrina Bird via email katrina.bird@jcu.edu.au 

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.