Project Manager – Scientific Instruments

About the role

Lead end‑to‑end delivery of scientific instrument and technology projects for astronomical observatories, space applications and external clients at Australian Astronomical Optics, Macquarie University.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee complex instrument, technology and software projects, ensuring delivery on time, within budget and to specification.
• Monitor progress against milestones, prepare reports for senior management and manage client and subcontractor relationships.
• Develop project plans, schedules and budgets for proposals, grant submissions and internal planning.
• Coordinate multi‑disciplinary teams within a matrix delivery model and manage high‑value procurements.

Required profile

• Relevant tertiary qualification and/or formal project management training.
• Proven experience delivering multi‑disciplinary technical projects to specification, budget and schedule.
• Strong communication and relationship‑building skills with internal and external stakeholders.
• Full and unrestricted working rights in Australia.

Required skills

• Project planning, budgeting and contract management.
• Risk identification and mitigation.
• Procurement negotiation and vendor management.
• Health and safety compliance in a lab‑based technical environment.

What we offer

• Salary $126,306 – $140,543 per annum (AUD) plus 17% superannuation and annual leave loading.
• Fixed‑term contract for 2 years.
• Flexible, hybrid work arrangements and onsite parking.
• Extensive training, professional development and onsite childcare facilities.