Contracts Officer – Research & Commercialisation

About the role

The University of Melbourne is seeking a Contracts Officer to support high‑impact research, innovation and commercialisation partnerships. You will work within the Research, Innovation and Commercialisation (RIC) team to negotiate and manage agreements that enable transformative collaborations with university, industry and government partners.

Key responsibilities

• Review, draft, negotiate and finalise research and commercial engagement agreements, seeking legal advice where appropriate.
• Coordinate internal approvals and delegate signatures to ensure contracts are executed accurately and on time.
• Build productive relationships with researchers, RIC colleagues, faculty staff and external partners to streamline contracting processes.
• Monitor, track and report contract status, providing timely updates and escalating issues to senior team members.
• Support, guide and mentor junior contracts staff, sharing knowledge and fostering best practice.

Required profile

• Law degree with experience drafting, negotiating and advising on commercial or government contracts.
• Solid knowledge of contract law and commercial contracting principles in practice.
• Ability to communicate complex contractual issues clearly to academics, professional staff and external stakeholders.
• Strong organisational skills to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines across a diverse portfolio.
• Collaborative mindset and sound judgement to balance risk, compliance and research or commercial objectives.

Required skills

• Legal drafting and negotiation
• Understanding of contract law
• Commercial contracting principles

What we offer

• 17% superannuation and a competitive salary package.
• Flexible work arrangements supporting inclusion and well‑being.
• Career development opportunities, including leadership programs and access to learning platforms.
• Progressive leave provisions to support work‑life balance.