Facility Manager (School of Molecular Sciences)

The University of Western Australia; Crawley; On-site; GBP 57,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Australian university is seeking a Facility Manager for its School of Molecular Sciences. The role will involve leading a cutting-edge plant synthetic biology facility and overseeing laboratory operations and strategic development. The ideal candidate will have relevant qualifications in molecular biology or biotechnology and proven experience in facility management. The position includes full-time commitment with a competitive salary and an emphasis on innovation within the biotechnology sector.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in managing life sciences facilities.
• Strong ability to manage budgets and financial reporting.
• Knowledge of biosafety, biosecurity, and quality systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead the establishment of a national research infrastructure facility.
• Oversee laboratory operations and financial management.
• Drive strategic planning for innovation in biotechnology.

Skills

Laboratory management

Financial management

Stakeholder engagement

Organizational skills

Interpersonal communication

Education

Relevant qualifications in molecular biology, biotechnology, or plant science

Job description

Facility Manager (School of Molecular Sciences)

The University of Western Australia – Crawley WA

• Lead a cutting‑edge plant synthetic biology facility at UWA’s premier research hub.
• Drive innovation in biotechnology and agriculture with national and industry partners.
• Full‑time (1.0 FTE) appointment on a fixed term basis March 2026‑June 2028.
• Base salary range: $116,262 – $127,078 p.a. plus 17% superannuation.

About the area

The Plant Synbio Innovation Centre (PSIC) is located within the School of Molecular Sciences at UWA. As the WA node of Plant SynBio Australia under Bioplatforms Australia and the NCRIS program, PSIC will serve as a hub for cutting‑edge research capabilities in plant synthetic biology, and agricultural biotechnology. The facility houses state‑of‑the‑art molecular biology infrastructure and operates in collaboration with national PSBA nodes at ANU, La Trobe University, and Adelaide University. The facility will work with research, industry, and government partners to develop and deliver cutting‑edge plant synbio technologies and services.

About the opportunity

• Lead the establishment and daily management of a national research infrastructure facility in plant synthetic biology technology development and service delivery.
• Oversee laboratory operations, financial management, reporting, and stakeholder engagement across academia, industry, and government.
• Drive strategic planning and capability development to position PSIC as a catalyst for innovation in WA’s biotechnology and agricultural sectors.

About you

• Relevant qualifications in molecular biology, biotechnology, plant science, or equivalent professional experience managing life sciences facilities.
• Proven experience in laboratory and infrastructure management, including procurement, compliance, and workflow optimisation.
• Strong organisational and financial skills, with the ability to manage budgets, reporting, service delivery, and service‑pricing models.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to engage diverse stakeholders and lead technical teams effectively.
• Knowledge of biosafety, biosecurity, and quality systems, with a commitment to operational excellence and risk management.

Special Requirements

• Occasional travel interstate or overseas may be required.
• Some after‑hours work may be required.
• Current Finance Check.
• Current National Police Clearance Check.

To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Ryan Lister at ***********@uwa.edu.au

How to apply

Please apply online via the Apply Now button. The content of your Resume and Cover Letter should demonstrate how you meet the selection criteria.

Closing date

11:55 PM AWST on Tuesday January 20th, 2026.

This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia.

Please note: Unsolicited applications from recruitment agencies will not be accepted outside of formal channels.

About the University

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research‑intensive universities. With a strong research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top university.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

UWA is committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering a safe environment for all, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community, and people living with disability.

If you require any reasonable adjustments, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application. Alternatively, you can contact the talent team if needed.