Project Officer

Overview

We are seeking an Indigenous Research Project Officer to provide high-level coordination, administrative and project support for a national Indigenous Science initiative within CSIRO's biodiversity and digital infrastructure platforms, specifically across the National Research Collections Australia (NRCA) and the Atlas of Living Australia (ALA). This project supports CSIRO's commitment to embedding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledges, voices, and leadership into national research infrastructure and environmental science. The Indigenous Research Project Officer will play a vital role in keeping the project on track through planning, scheduling, governance support, and cross-team collaboration. You will coordinate the work with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander reference group and CSIRO advisory group, assist in building trusted relationships with Indigenous communities and knowledge holders, and support respectful, co-designed science and engagement processes. The role also contributes to broader systemic change, helping to ensure Indigenous perspectives are embedded into data governance, digital collections, and research policies. Working alongside Indigenous and non-Indigenous researchers and engagement teams, you will help strengthen cultural capacity across the organisation and contribute to a more inclusive and collaborative science landscape. This is a meaningful opportunity for someone with strong coordination and communication skills who is passionate about Indigenous-led research, knowledge systems, and contributing to change in Australia's science sector.

Responsibilities

• Providing coordination, administrative, and project management support across all stages of the Indigenous Science initiative.
• Supporting the operation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander reference and advisory groups, including logistics, agenda setting, and record-keeping.
• Assisting in building and maintaining relationships with Indigenous communities, Elders, and organisations to support co-designed and Indigenous-led research.
• Contributing to the development of culturally appropriate data practices by supporting awareness of Indigenous Data Sovereignty and assisting with the review of data governance frameworks in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.

Location: Canberra (Ngunnawal), ACT preferred; Other locations may be considered with hybrid working options available.

Salary: AU$96,811 - AU$109,527 per annum (pro-rata for part-time) plus 15.4% superannuation

Duration: Specified Term until 30 June 2027

Reference: 100626

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in project coordination or administrative support, including scheduling, meeting support, and managing competing priorities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work respectfully and collaboratively with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples.
• A genuine interest in Indigenous knowledge systems, cultural engagement, and Indigenous-led science.
• Experience working in or supporting project governance structures, such as advisory groups or working groups, including organising meetings, preparing materials, and documenting actions or decisions.

Eligibility

CSIRO considers the filling of this position is intended to constitute a special/equal opportunity/affirmative measure under section 8(1) of the Racial Discrimination Act 1975 (Cth). The position is therefore only open to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people with Australian Citizenship.

The successful applicant will be required to provide evidence to confirm that they are an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person.

The successful candidate will be required to provide contact details of at least one Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Cultural Referee to confirm their ability to work and communicate respectfully with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Appointment to this role is subject to provision of a national police check and may be subject to other security/medical/character requirements.

How to Apply

To apply online, please provide a CV and cover letter outlining your suitability and motivation for the role.

Applications close: 7 September 2025, 11:00pm AEST

Seniority level

• Entry level

Employment type

• Contract

Job function

• Research, Analyst, and Information Technology

Industries

• Research Services

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