Research Station Operations Senior Officer

Research Station Operations Officer

Full-time permanent position

Base salary will be in the range $91,658.60 - $98,330.37 + 17% Superannuation (HEW Level 6)

Based at our Heron Island Research Station

About This Opportunity

We are looking for a dedicated and collaborative Research Station Operations Officer to join our team supporting the daily operations of UQ's research stations, with a primary focus on Heron Island Research Station. As part of a service-driven team, you will help deliver essential scientific, boating, diving, and administrative services that enable world-class research and education. While the role is based at Heron Island, you may also be called upon to support operations at other UQ research stations as needed.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Scientific and Environmental Support – Operate and maintain laboratory, aquarium, and teaching equipment; manage specimens and waste; assist with experimental setups; and conduct environmental monitoring using robust scientific methods.

• Boating Operations – Maintain and operate domestic commercial vessels in line with AMSA requirements, support client boating activities, and manage related logistics including launch, retrieval, and safety procedures.

• Diving and Snorkelling Services – Manage diving equipment and support occupational diving, freediving, and snorkelling activities in accordance with AS/NZS 2299 standards and UQ policies.

• Client Engagement and Activity Support – Provide expert guidance to clients throughout the planning, delivery, and review of research and teaching activities, and assist with hands-on delivery where required.

• Administration and Bookings – Manage client bookings, permits, payments, and communications using UQ's systems; oversee accommodation and site access arrangements.

• Health, Safety, and Emergency Response – Conduct inductions, ensure compliance with WHS and environmental regulations, manage waste ethically and safely, and contribute to emergency preparedness and response (e.g., tropical cyclones, marine incidents).

• Operational Flexibility and Cross-Team Collaboration – Contribute to facility and logistics tasks including housekeeping, groundskeeping, machinery operation, and procurement; support other UQ research stations as operationally required.

• Training and Professional Development – Act as a UQ Skills Educator as needed, support student learning and assessment, participate in ongoing skills development, and share work demands as part of a high-performing team.

About UQ

As part of the UQ community, you will have the opportunity to work alongside the brightest minds, who have joined us from all over the world.

Everyone here has a role to play. As a member of our professional staff cohort, you will be actively involved in working towards our vision of a better world. By supporting the academic endeavour across teaching, research, and the student life, you will have the opportunity to contribute to activities that have a lasting impact on our community.

Join a community where excellence is at the core of our culture, contributions are valued and a range of benefits and rewards are available, such as:

• Up to 26 weeks paid parental leave or 14 weeks paid primary caregiver leave

• 17% superannuation contributions

• 17.5% annual leave loading

• Access to flexible working arrangements including hybrid working options, flexible start/finish times, purchased leave, and a condensed fortnight

• Health and wellness discounts – fitness passport access, free yearly flu vaccinations, discounted health insurance, and access to our Employee Assistance Program for staff and their immediate family

• UQ Study for Staff

• Salary packaging options

About You

Essential

• Undergraduate qualification in marine science, conservation science, business, law, or related disciplines with relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of relevant experience, education, and training.

• Demonstrated (or ready ability to acquire) knowledge and understanding of applied scientific principles, including in relation to health and safety, animal ethics, and environmental compliance.

• Current holder of (or ready ability to attain and maintain) the necessary qualifications and experience for formal recognition in:

  • Diving operations in accordance with AS/NZS 2299 series.

  • Domestic commercial vessel operations in accordance with Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) requirements.

  • Skills training operations to Certificate IV in Training and Assessment or equivalent.

  • Operation of plant and heavy machinery.

• Demonstrated (or ready ability to acquire) knowledge and understanding of applied business principles, including procurement, service product development, and customer service.

• High level computer literacy skills including the ability to use, or learn to use, software applications associated with analytical instruments and business operations.

• Demonstrated high level of interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to develop and sustain strategic relationships, to work collaboratively and undertake effective consultations with client groups.

• Possession of, or the ability to acquire, a valid Blue Card prior to commencement of duties.

Desirable

• Experience working within remote and/or coastal environments.

• Knowledge and experience of the University's policies, procedures, and systems.

The successful candidate may be required to complete a number of pre-employment checks, including: right to work in Australia, criminal check, education check, AHPRA registration, mandatory immunisations, first aid and/or CPR certification, blue card check, etc.

You must maintain unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this appointment to apply. Employer sponsored work rights are not available for this appointment.

Questions?

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Dr. Stuart Kininmonth at s.kininmonth@uq.edu.au. For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at talent@uq.edu.au, stating the job reference number (below) in the subject line.

Want to Apply?

We welcome applications from all individuals and are committed to an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. To be considered, please ensure you upload:

• Resume

• A cover letter summarising how your background aligns with the 'About You' section

Our strength as an institution lies in our diverse colleagues. We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion, fostering an environment that mirrors our wider community. We're committed to attracting, retaining, and promoting diverse talent. If you require an alternative method to submit your application due to accessibility needs or personal circumstances, please contact talent@uq.edu.au.

Other Information

UQ is committed to a fair, equitable and inclusive selection process, which recognises that some applicants may face additional barriers and challenges which have impacted and/or continue to impact their career trajectory. Candidates who don't meet all criteria are encouraged to apply and demonstrate their potential. The selection panel considers both potential and performance relative to opportunities when assessing suitability for the role.

Applications close 13 July 2025 at 11.00pm AEST (R-51963).