Manager, Laboratory and Technical Services (Preclinical Sciences)

About the role

James Cook University is looking for an experienced manager to lead Laboratory and Technical Services (Preclinical Sciences) at its Townsville campus. The role provides strategic and operational leadership across multidisciplinary facilities, teams and services that support student learning and service outcomes. It is a full-time, continuing position of 36.25 hours per week, based in Townsville or with relocation before start.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the planning, prioritisation and delivery of laboratory and technical services across campuses and disciplines such as Biomedicine, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Pharmacy and Medical Laboratory Science.
• Ensure services are delivered safely, consistently and to agreed standards, timeframes and stakeholder expectations.
• Optimise specialist laboratories, equipment and other resources to support high-quality student learning.
• Build a high-performing, collaborative workplace culture, strengthen cross-team planning and drive service consistency, innovation and continuous improvement.
• Lead and develop staff capability, manage workload and performance, and give high-level technical and operational advice on feasibility, safety, compliance and resource implications.

Required profile

• Valid Australian working rights for the duration of the appointment; candidates must be based in Townsville or willing to relocate.
• Proven leadership experience in complex biological laboratories, health, clinical or similar technical service environments.
• Management experience leading operational service delivery across diverse scientific and health disciplines.
• Experience overseeing specialist facilities, technical infrastructure, equipment and resources, including physical containment facilities, specialised equipment and analytical instrumentation.
• Experience leading safety and compliance, including biosafety, chemical safety, dangerous goods, Scheduled Medicines and Poisons, Australian Laboratory Standards and regulatory compliance.
• Experience managing service demands across multiple disciplines and locations, planning and coordinating human, financial and physical resources.

Required skills

• Strong understanding of Workplace Health and Safety legislation, supported by practical experience in risk management, incident response and compliance monitoring.
• High-level communication, interpersonal and influencing skills, and the ability to develop staff and team capability.

What we offer

• Salary of $111,960 - $128,567 per annum plus up to 17% superannuation.
• 5 weeks of annual recreation leave plus leave loading, 15 days paid sick/carers leave and up to 6 months paid parental leave.
• Flexible working options, staff study assistance and paid study leave, ongoing professional development support.
• Fitness Passport, corporate health insurance discount and free Employee Assistance Program.
• Modern facilities at the Townsville campus with on-site childcare and medical services.

To apply, use the university careers page: complete the application form, upload a resume and a cover letter, and submit a separate document responding to the selection criteria.