Research Station Support Services Assistant (Heron Island) - Identified (s25)

University of Queensland; Heron Island; On-site; AUD 79,000 - 84,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-site accommodation

Job summary

The University of Queensland invites applications for two Research Station Support Services Assistant roles based at Heron Island Research Station. One focuses on maintenance and facilities, the other on administration, outreach and research support services.

Both roles are full-time and permanent, with on-site accommodation provided and a base salary in the range $79,096.42–$83,863.22 plus 17% superannuation. An Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person is a genuine occupational requirement.

Qualifications

• Vocational training in science, business, or a trade with relevant experience.
• Demonstrated ability to follow complex processes and safety protocols.
• High level computer literacy and ability to use analytical software.

Responsibilities

• Assisting with operational services across the station (administration, logistics, and facility upkeep).
• Supporting preparation and maintenance of scientific, boating, and diving equipment to enable research and teaching activities.
• Contributing to culturally informed environmental management practices and promoting awareness of cultural heritage protocols.
• Collaborating with staff, researchers, and visitors to ensure safe, efficient, and respectful station operations.

Skills

Computer literacy

Interpersonal skills

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Vocational training qualification (or ready ability to acquire) in science, business, or a trade with relevant experience

Job description

• Faculty of Science
• 2 x Full time permanent positions
• Base salary will be in the range$79,096.42- $83,863.22 + 17% Superannuation(HEW Level4)
• This position is open to Traditional Owners of Bailai, Gurang, Gooreng Gooreng or Taribelang Bunda Peoples – the Traditional Custodians of the land and sea Country encompassing Heron Island and surrounding areas.
• Based at Heron Island Research Station

Acknowledgement of Country

The University of Queensland (UQ) acknowledges the Traditional Owners and their custodianship of the lands on which UQoperates. We pay our respects to their Ancestors and their descendants, who continue cultural and spiritual connections to Country. We recognise their valuable contributions to Australian and global society.

About This Opportunity

Join a collaborative and purpose-driven team at UQ’s Heron Island Research Station, where scientific excellence meets cultural stewardship on Country. This identified role supports the day-to-day operations of UQ’s research station while embedding Traditional Owner knowledge, values, and perspectives into environmental management and research activities.

We are seeking two positions with complementary focus areas:

• One position with a stronger emphasis on maintenance and facility operations.
• One position with a stronger emphasis on administration, outreach, and research support services.

Working as part of a collaborative team, both Research Station Support Services Assistant roles contribute to the overall daily operations of UQ’s research stations. This work may be supporting the delivery of specific services including scientific (e.g. laboratory and aquaria), boating, snorkelling and diving, administrative, general maintenance and other operational tasks and activities required to maintain the safe and effective functioning of the research station.

Key responsibilities include:

• Assisting with operational services including administration, logistics, and facility upkeep across the station
• Supporting the preparation, use, and maintenance of scientific, boating, and diving equipment to enable research and teaching activities
• Contributing to culturally informed environmental management practices and promoting awareness of cultural heritage protocols
• Collaborating with staff, researchers, and visitors to ensure safe, efficient, and respectful station operations

On-site accommodation will be provided by UQ while undertaking work on Heron Island . Take our virtual tour .

For further information, please click here to view the information booklet.

About You

The University of Queensland considers that to perform thisrole,it is essential that the person is an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person. It is therefore a genuine occupational requirement under section 25 of theAnti-Discrimination Act 1991(Qld).The successful candidate willbe requiredto provide evidence to confirm that they are an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person.

• Must be a Traditional Owner of the Bailai, Gurang, Gooreng Gooreng, or Taribelang Bunda Peoples – the Traditional Custodians of the land and sea Country encompassing Heron Island and surrounding areas.
• Connection to and knowledge of the cultural heritage, traditions, and values of the Traditional Owners of Heron Island and surrounding areas.
• Vocational training qualification (or ready ability to acquire) in science, business, or a trade with relevant experience, OR an equivalent combination of relevant experience, education, and training.
• Demonstrated ability to follow complex processes and systems, ideally where necessary for health and safety, animal ethics, and/or environmental compliance.
• Current holder of (or ready ability to attain and maintain) the necessary qualifications and experience for formal recognition in the operation of plant and heavy machinery.
• 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.

About UQ

As part of the UQ community, you will work alongside bright minds from around the world, united by a shared commitment to creating a better world. Excellence is at the core of our culture, contributions are valued, and staff are supported through a wide range of benefits, including up to 26 weeks paid parental and primary care leave, 17%superannuation,17.5%leave loading,flexible and hybrid working options, health and wellbeing programs, a heavily discounted Study for Staff program,on‑campuschildcare, affordable parking, salary packaging, and cultural leave.

UQ is committed to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ learning, discovery and engagement, and to playing a leading role in reconciliation in Australia. Guided by our Strategic Plan,StretchReconciliation Action Plan and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Employment Strategy, we work in partnership with communities to embed reconciliation across our operations. You will be supported to connect with vibrant staff networks, including the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Staff Network, and your cultural identity will be respected,valuedand embraced.

Interested?

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Dr Stuart Kininmonth at [e-mail] application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at [e-mail],statingthe job reference number (below)in the subject line.

When you apply, pleaseensure you uploada resume and cover letter summarisinghow yourbackground aligns to the ‘About You’ section.

Other Information

Pre-employment checksmayinclude:verification of theright to work in Australia, criminal history checks and Blue Card checks.This may also include checks relating to gender-based violence matters or other integrity and conduct requirements.

We’rededicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Werecognise that career pathways and opportunitiesdiffer, andencourage applications from candidates who may not meet everycriteriabut candemonstratetheir potentialrelativeto opportunity.

We’realso happy to support any accessibility needs throughout the recruitment process.

Just let us know how we can help by emailing [e-mail] calling [phone].

Applications close Thursday 5 November 2026at 11.00pm AEST (R-62194). Please note that interviews have been tentatively scheduled formid November 2026.