Lab & Technical Services Manager – Life Sciences

James Cook University; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 112,000 - 129,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

17% employer superannuation

Job summary

James Cook University seeks a dynamic leader to direct the Laboratories and Technical Services across Education, Life and Environmental Sciences. Based in Townsville, you will oversee multiple disciplines, drive safety, compliance and continuous improvement, and ensure high-quality practical teaching environments.

The role focuses on strategic and operational leadership, staff development, and efficient use of facilities and equipment to support student learning outcomes.

Qualifications

• Management experience within biological, earth and/or environmental science laboratories or related technical environments.
• Ability to lead operational service delivery across diverse disciplines and practical learning environments.
• Experience overseeing complex laboratory operations, equipment and resources to support teaching and service outcomes.
• Demonstrated experience leading safety and compliance in laboratory environments, with WHS knowledge and risk management.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning, prioritisation and delivery of laboratory and technical services across disciplines and campuses.
• Ensure services are delivered safely, consistently and to agreed standards and timelines.
• Develop staff capability, manage workload and performance, and provide high-level technical advice.
• Drive safety, compliance, risk management and continuous improvement across units.
• Coordinate resources (human, financial and physical) to meet competing service requirements.

Skills

Leadership in labs

Biological sciences

Safety compliance

WHS knowledge

Job description

James Cook University seeks a dynamic leader to direct the Laboratories and Technical Services across Education, Life and Environmental Sciences. Based in Townsville, you will oversee multiple disciplines, drive safety, compliance and continuous improvement, and ensure high-quality practical teaching environments.

The role focuses on strategic and operational leadership, staff development, and efficient use of facilities and equipment to support student learning outcomes.