Research Project Lead

The Role:

We are seeking a seasoned professional to lead and support the delivery of research projects across our organisation.

This leadership position will focus on developing research projects that deliver outcomes in areas such as environmental protection, water quality, resource recovery, circular economy, carbon net zero, and asset management.

You will champion the integration of research into practice, ensuring that insights are translated into real-world solutions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the end-to-end delivery of research projects and programs, including problem identification, project design and scoping, governance and reporting, stakeholder management, and implementation.
• Manage the full lifecycle of research initiatives, from challenge identification to design, implementation, deployment, and stakeholder management.
• Enable and oversee project scope, timelines, quality, cost, resources, and risk. Ensure projects stay on track, escalate when necessary, and deliver measurable results.
• Track key performance indicators (KPIs), such as deliverables, timelines, budget, return on investment, issues, and risk mitigation. Provide regular updates via dashboards and reports.
• Identify, manage, and communicate with key internal and external stakeholders to ensure alignment and successful project delivery.
• Lead competitive procurement processes and manage project requisitions to support project goals.
• Work closely with internal teams to enable robust research outcomes and promote their integration into existing operations.
• Manage partnerships with external collaborators, including universities, government agencies, and industry experts. Leverage research investments to explore funding opportunities.
• Identify and advocate for opportunities to commercialise research and innovation outcomes, contributing to the growth and success of the organisation. Ensure appropriate management and protection of IP.

For this role, we seek a highly experienced individual who possesses the following qualifications:

• A degree in a relevant field such as science, environment, engineering, technology, innovation management, business or commercialisation.
• Demonstrated extensive experience in research proposal development, research management or R&D leadership roles.
• Proven ability to translate complex technical challenges into structured research or innovation programs.
• Technical expertise in research and development, technology, and innovation, with the ability to guide technical direction and priorities.
• Demonstrated ability to translate research outcomes into business-as-usual practices, ensuring operational integration and value realisation.
• Experience in intellectual property management and/or technology commercialisation is desirable, with the ability to identify and advocate for opportunities that support the organisation.
• Proven ability to engage and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including academic, government and industry partners.

Join us in shaping the future of infrastructure in NSW by working on projects that make a tangible impact on communities.

Our comprehensive benefits package includes:

• Meaningful work that contributes to the greater good.
• Competitive remuneration that reflects your skills and contributions.
• A hybrid work environment that balances remote work and office collaboration.
• Continuous professional growth through leadership and development programs.
• 24/7 wellbeing support for you and your family.
• Discounted private health insurance.
• Up to 18 weeks of fully paid parental leave and a childcare allowance.
• A fitness passport granting access to multiple gyms and pools across NSW.
• Novated leasing options to take control of your financial future.

At our organisation, we prioritise diversity and inclusion, welcoming applications from candidates who may not tick every qualification box but share our passion for making a difference.