Manager, Laboratory and Technical Services (Operations and Safety)

About the role

James Cook University is looking for an experienced Manager, Laboratory and Technical Services (Operations and Safety) to lead planning, prioritisation and delivery of technical and operational services across Academy research facilities and JCU Stores. The role sits in the Education Division, is full-time (36.25 hours per week) and is based at the Townsville campus; the successful candidate must be based in Townsville or willing to relocate.

Key responsibilities

• Ensure facilities, specialised equipment and resources are safe, compliant and operationally ready for researchers.
• Embed effective safety, risk management and compliance practices in daily operations across biological sciences, chemistry, geology, dentistry and engineering laboratories.
• 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 the feasibility, safety, compliance and resource implications of planned activities.

Required profile

• Relevant qualifications and demonstrated leadership and operational management experience in a complex laboratory or technical service environment.
• Management experience in scientific and/or engineering research laboratories, with understanding of complex, regulated lab operations.
• Leadership experience in complex technical environments, leading diverse teams and fostering a culture of safety, accountability and high performance.
• Experience operating biological, chemical and/or engineering laboratories, including physical containment facilities, specialised equipment and analytical instruments.
• Demonstrated experience leading safety and compliance, covering WHS requirements, risk management, dangerous goods, Scheduled Medicines and Poisons, Australian Laboratory Standards, Biosecurity, Gene Technology and Radiation compliance.
• Experience overseeing stores, inventory and services in a research or technical environment.
• Ability to plan, prioritise and coordinate human, financial and physical resources across multiple disciplines and locations.

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, candidates use the university careers page, upload a resume and a cover letter addressing the key requirements and selection criteria.