Technical Officer

Job Description:

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 a Technical Officer to join our team within the Economic Geology Research Centre in the College of Science and Engineering.

• Full-time and fixed term to 5 June 2028
• Located at the Townsville Bebegu Yumba campus in Tropical North Queensland
• HEWL 6 $ 90,821 - $ 98,369 p.a. + super and other benefits.

About the College of Science and Engineering

The College of Science and Engineering is a comprehensive provider of world class research and undergraduate and postgraduate programs in a range of science, technology and engineering disciplines.

As part of the Academy, the College of Science and Engineering promotes, supports and administers quality teaching, hands-on experiences, industry placements and research at JCU in the areas of Marine Biology & Aquaculture, Zoology and Ecology, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Information Technology, Physical Sciences Engineering and Veterinary Science.

We are recognised globally for our excellence in research and we strive to ensure that we bring research directly into our classrooms. Our diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs are united by a commitment to excellent teaching, experiential learning opportunities utilising our world class infrastructure and natural laboratories, and a commitment to diversity and respect for difference.

Our postgraduate courses offer professionals opportunities to develop their abilities and advance their careers and our PhD program has launched a thousand research careers.

About the opportunity

Contribute to the achievement of project and research outcomes within the Isotropics Geochemistry Laboratory, which includes undertaking analytical work on rock and water samples. Become proficient in a wide array of analytical techniques in the areas of trace element and isotope geochemistry.

Deliver high-quality customer service, ensuring all interactions are professional, customer-focused and achieve measurable outcomes.

What you can bring to the role

You’ll have relevant degree qualifications or extensive research experience including a demonstrated knowledge of geochemistry, with an understanding of geology or ore deposit formation and the operation of mass spectrometers an advantage.

Working under broad supervision, you will have the ability to prioritise and meet competing deadlines, exercising judgement and initiative.

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 culturally diverse working environment with opportunities for professional and personal growth. Employee wellbeing is at the core of our values, and we support our people through the provision of flexible working conditions and many other benefits including;

• A generous superannuation scheme with up to 17% employer contributions with UniSuper
• 5 weeks of annual recreation leave and 15 days of paid sick/personal/carers leave per year
• Cultural leave and Flexible working options
• Attractive options for salary packaging
• Fitness Passport
• Employee Assistance Program
• Professional development support
• Well-equipped campus facilities including medical, cafes and sporting fitness.

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.
4. Upload a separate document in response to the selection criteria as specified in the duty descriptor.

Applications close on 2 June 2026 AEST.

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.

What matters to us at JCU?

Our People – Our staff, students, and the communities we serve

Our Education – Knowledge has the power to change lives

Our Place – the Tropics and beyond

Our Research – a catalyst for innovation and knowledge generation

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 learning and working environment is safe and welcoming.