Field Officer

• Conduct vessel and diving operations for student field trips
• Fixed Term until January 2026 with possibility of extension
• Full Time position based in Hobart

About the opportunity

The Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) is looking for a Field Officer to join their team.

This role provides high level professional research support and technical leadership on campus, in the field and at sea for IMAS research and teaching programs.

As our new Field Officer, you will be responsible for assisting the Principal Field Officer and teaching staff with managing undergraduate course-related fieldtrips, conducting vessel and diving operations for such trips, operating IMAS fleet vessels as required for teaching and research purposes, facilitating project and trip planning using Field Friendly software, and assisting IMAS Operations Team members as required.

Importantly, you will facilitate the effective and safe operation of the vessels and vehicles at IMAS campuses, providing day-to-day operational support, teaching support and training to staff and students, and ensuring compliance with relevant UTAS and statutory Work Health and Safety Regulations and Codes of Practice.

This role is currently available for a 3-month period with the possibility of 1 year + 1 year extension.

What you'll do:

• Provide operational support for fieldwork and community engagement activities, including logistics, vessel and diving operations, risk monitoring, equipment management, and maintenance of fieldwork spaces and resources.
• Ensure a safe working environment by implementing relevant policies, delivering inductions and training, supporting risk management processes, and promoting a proactive safety culture.
• Assist with managing assets (vessels, trailers, vehicles, diving, field, and emergency equipment) across all IMAS sites

What we're looking for:

• Completion of a science degree with subsequent experience working in marine research (including vessel operations and diving), OR knowledge of and extensive experience in undertaking fieldwork, including vessel operations and scientific diving; working in remote areas and cold environments.
• Ability to effectively supervise, organise and conduct field-based research in the marine environment as a member of a research team and to work effectively both under broad supervision, and as the Team Leader.
• Demonstrated knowledge of work, health and safety practices, behaviours and expectations and the ability to influence positive change.
• Significant experience in providing technical support including experience in the maintenance and implementation of risk assessments, safe working procedures and standard operating protocols in a changing environment.
• Boating and Diving qualification and licences required.  Please see Position Description for further details.

Salary details

Appointment to this role will be at HEO 6 and will have a total remuneration package of up to $116,872 comprising base salary within the range of $92,120 to $99,891 plus 17% superannuation.

How to Apply

• To apply online, please provide your CV and 1-2-page cover letter outlining your interest in the role, skills, capabilities and experience.  You do not need to separately address the success profile criteria.
• For further information about this position, please contact Jeremy Smith, Operations Manager on or
• Please visit for our guide to applying and details on the recruitment process.
• For current UTAS staff, in submitting your application, you acknowledge you have/intend to discuss your interest in this vacancy with your current manager and understand they may need to be contacted confidentially by the hiring manager as part of the assessment of your application.
• Please refer to the attached Position Description Below for full details.

 Position Description Field

Applications close Sunday, 16 November 2025, 11.55pm

The University of Tasmania acknowledges the Palawa/Pakana and Gadigal/Wangal people as the traditional custodians of the land, sea and waters of the areas upon which we live and work. We recognise their valuable contributions and deep connection to country and pay respect to Elders past and present.

As part of our commitment to a safe and inclusive workplace, employment history and police checks may be conducted as part of the selection process.

To be eligible for this position, you are required to hold Australian or New Zealand Citizenship, permanent residency or a valid visa that enables you to fulfil the requirements of this role.