Senior Technical Officer

Overview

- College of Engineering, Science and Environment | Newcastle Institute for Energy and Resources (NIER)
- Contribute to cutting-edge research, commercialisation, and sustainability initiative
- Be part of the TRaCE (Trailblazer for Recycling and Clean Energy) program

Are you an experienced workshop leader looking for a role that blends hands-on technical expertise with stakeholder collaboration? This is your chance to join the University of Newcastle’s newly established Modern Manufacturing Workshop (MMW) – a facility at the forefront of cutting-edge research, prototyping, and trailblazing technologies.

About the role

As Senior Technical Officer, you’ll oversee the day-to-day operations of the Modern Manufacturing Workshop, ensuring the safe, efficient, and innovative delivery of bespoke manufacturing solutions. This dynamic role will see you working closely with researchers, academics, students, and industry partners to enable high-precision fabrication, rapid prototyping, and custom solutions to bring big ideas to life.

You’ll report directly to the College Operations Manager and work in close collaboration with the Deputy Director of NIER, as well as other technical teams across our precinct (mechanical, electrical, and chemical workshops).

A typical week

- Scheduling and coordinating workshop operations, inductions, and equipment training.
- Liaising with researchers, academics, and industry partners to scope and prioritise jobs.
- Operating and programming CNC and multi-axis lathes, as well as manual equipment.
- Reviewing and producing CAD technical drawings to support prototyping and research.
- Ensuring compliance with WHS standards, SOPs, and safe workshop practices.
- Leading and mentoring technical staff, while building collaborative relationships across the University and beyond.

About you

We’re seeking a motivated and adaptable leader who thrives in a busy workshop environment and can balance multiple stakeholder priorities.

This full-time position is fixed term until June 2027 role at a HEW 7 Higher Education Level located at Callaghan Campus.

About our University

The University of Newcastle stands as a global leader distinguished by a commitment to equity and excellence. Our vision is to be a world-leading University for our regions and creating a better future for our regions and the globe. Underpinned by this vision and our values of excellence, equity, engagement and sustainability, the University’s Looking Ahead Strategic Plan 2020-2025 outlines the University’s commitment to delivering an exceptional student experience and serving our communities. For more information please note the University’s information page.

What we offer

In addition to working for a university that is breaking boundaries, discovering new ways of thinking and cementing a place as a global leader, we offer a range of benefits to our employees to ensure you balance your commitments, stay healthy and work effectively. These include:

- Remuneration from $103,641 to $116,596 p.a. (negotiable) + superannuation and commensurate with skills and experience
- Flexible working arrangements (in line with the University’s Flexible Work Policy)
- 17% superannuation and salary packaging
- Additional University Holiday days, generous personal leave and parental leave, annual leave loading and additional purchased leave scheme
- Discounts in private health insurance, gym memberships, software, travel and more
- Wellbeing programs

This role offers a unique opportunity for someone seeking a lifestyle change or mature professional growth path—balancing technical expertise with leadership, stakeholder engagement, and exposure to world-leading research. You’ll have the chance to work on projects that push the boundaries of innovation, all while enjoying the flexibility and stability of university employment.

Your next steps

Please visit the information page for guidance on how to apply for a role. If viewing this on a job board, please click Apply to reach the University’s website, where a copy of the Position Description can be accessed. Please download a copy before commencing your application.

Your application must include:

- Your resume
- A cover letter outlining your motivation to apply for this opportunity
- A statement addressing the Essential Criteria below demonstrating your qualifications and experience with examples.

1. A degree or mechanical trade qualification with at least four years subsequent relevant experience
2. Specialist skills and experience in designing and manufacturing of complex mechanical components and equipment
3. Experience supervising an engineering workshop and leading a team promoting cooperation and collaboration with other teams and stakeholders
4. Advanced knowledge of CNC machining including programming and operation. Knowledge or experience with laser cutting, water jet cutting, and technical understanding of 3D metal printing
5. Demonstrated skills and familiarity with technology-supported systems for improving operations in areas such as asset management, maintenance scheduling, work-flow management and health and safety
6. Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills including the capacity to build relationships and an interdisciplinary way of working
7. Demonstrated knowledge of workplace obligations to, and experience in leading and cultivating workplace practices and behaviours that promote, support and maintain a safe, healthy, equitable, diverse and respectful workplace, including responding appropriately to adverse accidents, incidents, behaviours, issues, reports and the like

To ensure that your application receives full consideration, structure and address the selection criteria outlined in the application process. We appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to reviewing your application.

Please upload your Cover Letter and response to the Essential Criteria as one PDF document.

Your Cover Letter and Response to the Essential Criteria should not exceed 4 pages (approximately 2,000 words).

For specific position enquiries, please contact Chris Neenan, Senior Manager, Technical Services (02) 4921 7285 or via email Chris.Neenan@newcastle.edu.au

Having difficulties? Please reach out to us: employment@newcastle.edu.au

Closing date: Sunday 19 October 2025 11:59pm AEST

We are looking forward to looking ahead with you

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