Technical Assistant

Southern Cross University; Lismore; On-site; AUD 70,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

Southern Cross University Laboratories (SCU Labs) is seeking a Technical Assistant to join their team, supporting routine and research related preparation and analysis of a variety of samples. Working alongside experienced technical staff, you’ll assist with sample preparation, routine testing, quality assurance and the day-to-day operations that keep our laboratories running efficiently.

You will make an impact by: preparing samples and undertaking routine analysis using established laboratory

Qualifications

• A relevant certificate‑level qualification, or equivalent experience, ideally in an analytical chemistry or laboratory environment.
• Sound foundational knowledge of chemistry and laboratory practices, including an understanding of quality assurance principles.
• Organisational skills and an ability to manage competing tasks, maintain accurate records and meet regular deadlines.
• A collaborative approach and effective communication skills to work productively with technical staff and other stakeholders.
• A high level of attention to detail and the ability to perform repetitive tasks accurately and consistently, while following workplace health and safety requirements.

Responsibilities

• Preparing samples and undertaking routine analysis using established laboratory techniques.
• Following laboratory quality assurance protocols and procedures to support accurate and reliable testing.
• Assisting with the review and improvement of testing processes and procedures.
• Supporting sample cataloguing, accession and preparation while helping manage workflows and meet turnaround times.
• Collaborating with technical staff and internal and external stakeholders to support effective laboratory operations and respond to changing priorities.

Skills

Attention to detail

Organisational skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

Education

Certificate-level qualification in analytical chemistry or equivalent

Tools

Laboratory techniques

Job description

At Southern Cross University, we do things differently, and so can you.

A career with us is more than you might expect. Yes, it’s about the heart, connectedness and community you’d hope for in a regional university. But there’s also so much more. Our game changing Southern Cross Model brings a deeper, focused learning experience and our research is deeply connected to our regions, making a difference on a global scale. This is your chance to help us build something new and meaningful for our students, our communities and your career. To drive change, make a real impact, and thrive in a place as unique as you.

You can be good anywhere. Here, you can be great.

Your opportunity

Southern Cross University Laboratories (SCU Labs) is seeking a Technical Assistant to join their team, supporting routine and research related preparation and analysis of a variety of samples. Working alongside experienced technical staff, you’ll assist with sample preparation, routine testing, quality assurance and the day-to-day operations that keep our laboratories running efficiently.

You will make an impact by:

• Preparing samples and undertaking routine analysis using established laboratory techniques
• Following laboratory quality assurance protocols and procedures to support accurate and reliable testing
• Assisting with the review and improvement of testing processes and procedures
• Supporting sample cataloguing, accession and preparation while helping manage workflows and meet turnaround times
• Collaborating with technical staff and internal and external stakeholders to support effective laboratory operations and respond to changing priorities

What you will bring

You’re a reliable and motivated team player who enjoys practical, hands‑on work and takes pride in getting the details right. You’re comfortable following established procedures, completing routine tasks consistently and keeping things organised. With a genuine interest in laboratory work, you’re keen to learn from experienced colleagues and contribute to a team delivering high‑quality analytical services.

To succeed in this role, you will also need:

• A relevant certificate‑level qualification, or equivalent experience, ideally in an analytical chemistry or laboratory environment
• Sound foundational knowledge of chemistry and laboratory practices, including an understanding of quality assurance principles
• Organisational skills and an ability to manage competing tasks, maintain accurate records and meet regular deadlines
• A collaborative approach and effective communication skills to work productively with technical staff and other stakeholders
• A high level of attention to detail and the ability to perform repetitive tasks accurately and consistently, while following workplace health and safety requirements

Why Southern Cross University

SCU is proudly a regional university, young, small and vibrant. That means you’ll find more exposure, opportunity and ownership - to grow, achieve and build a career that means more. And you’ll do it alongside passionate people and leaders who go the extra mile to help you succeed.A career with us is about more than just work. It’s about place, community and the life you want to live. With three main campuses at the Gold Coast, Coffs Harbour and the Northern Rivers region of NSW, we’re integral to all these wonderful communities. Find your place and be more in this beautiful part of the world.

Your opportunity is:

• Full-time, continuing (permanent)
• Located at Lismore, NSW 2480.
• HEW Level 3. The base salary ranges from $70,106 - $76,495 per annum, plus 17% employer’s contribution to superannuation. The total remuneration package is up to $89,499.

You will enjoy a range of perks designed to support your wellbeing, growth and work-life balance. For more information on our benefits and what it’s like to work at SCU, visit Why work at Southern Cross University?

Be more with Southern Cross University today

Southern Cross University values potential as much as experience. If you do not meet all the listed requirements but are excited about the role and confident you can contribute, we encourage you to apply or reach out for more information.

Name: Alice Mann, Operations Manager, Laboratory Operations

Email: **********@scu.edu.au

Eligible applicants must have Australian or New Zealand citizenship, Australian permanent residency or current working rights in Australia for the entire duration of the appointment. Employer visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Southern Cross University celebrates the rich diversity of our regions and international community. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace that welcomes and values people of all backgrounds. We encourage applications from people of all genders, ethnicities, ages, languages, sexual orientations, and people with disabilities. We are dedicated to providing reasonable adjustments to our recruitment process to ensure every candidate can fully participate.For any support through the recruitment process reach out to ****@scu.edu.au.