"Senior Technical Officer (Microbiology and Biosafety)"

Maintain microbiology and PC1/PC2 University research facilities

Work across Gold Coast and Lismore campuses in a specialist technical role

Join a collaborative research infrastructure team, supporting research with real impact

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 opportunityJoin our Research Infrastructure and Operations team as a Senior Technical Officer (Microbiology and Biosafety) and play a critical role supporting microbiological research, biosafety compliance and specialist laboratory facilities across the University. Working independently within a small team of technical specialists, you will coordinate PC1/PC2 laboratory activities, support researchers, and strengthen biosafety and gene technology practices. This role offers broad exposure to advanced research environments and the opportunity to shape safe, high-performing laboratory operations.

You will make an impact by:

• Coordinating day-to-day activities in microbiology and PC1/PC2 research spaces
• Leading biosafety and gene technology training and compliance initiatives
• Maintaining and optimising specialised laboratory facilities and equipment
• Supporting the Institutional Biosafety Committee and research stakeholders

What you will bringYou are a technical specialist experienced in supporting microbiology and gene technology, who thrives in complex research environments and takes ownership of laboratory safety, compliance and operational excellence. You are confident working independently, collaborating with researchers across disciplines and delivering practical training that strengthens safe laboratory practice.To succeed in this role, you will also need:

• A relevant degree and at least three years’ experience in microbiological and PC2 laboratory environments, ideally research-focused
• Strong working knowledge of biological safety, gene technology and laboratory WHS standards
• Strong skills in maintaining and troubleshooting laboratory instrumentation and systems
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement technical procedures and train staff or students

While not essential, experience with PCR and/or advanced microscopy would be highly regarded.

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, continuing (permanent)Located across Lismore, NSW 2480 and Gold Coast, QLD 4225, with regular work required at both campusesHEW Level 6. The base salary ranges from $95,961 – $105,250 per annum, plus 17% employer’s contribution to superannuation. The total remuneration package is up to $123,143.

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: Iain Alexander, Technical Manager (Research Infrastructure and Operation Team)Phone: 02 6620 3496Email: iain.alexander@scu.edu.au

Applications close 11.30pm AEDT 15 March 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 responding to the selection criteria within 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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