Senior Mechanical Technician

Acknowledgement of Country

CSIRO acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land, sea and waters, of the area that we live and work on across Australia. We acknowledge their continuing connection to their culture and pay our respects to their Elders past and present. View our vision towards reconciliation.

Role highlights

• Be part of Australia's most advanced marine research operations aboard the RV Investigator
• Apply your mechanical and problem-solving skills to support world-class ocean science
• Join a collaborative, high-performing team driving innovation in marine engineering and technology

About CSIRO

As Australia's national science agency, CSIRO is solving the greatest challenges through innovative science and technology. Many of our iconic innovations were once considered impossible until someone, just like you, joined us and took on the challenge.

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The opportunity

Take your mechanical trade skills to new depths with CSIRO's National Collections and Marine Infrastructure (NCMI) division. We're looking for a Mechanical Technician to support critical marine research operations, both in the workshop and at sea onboard Australia's RV Investigator, a state-of-the-art blue-water research vessel.

In this exciting and varied role, you will work hands-on with a range of sophisticated marine research systems, from proven technologies to cutting-edge prototypes used for geological, oceanographic, fisheries and biological sampling. You will play a key role in ensuring this equipment operates safely and efficiently during research missions that push the boundaries of marine science.

You will be part of our Field Operations team within the Engineering and Technology program, working alongside engineers, technicians, and scientists who design, build, and deploy world-leading marine and atmospheric research tools. Each day brings new challenges and the chance to contribute to projects that have real impact on how we understand and protect our oceans.

If you're an adaptable, safety-focused technician who thrives in dynamic environments and wants your work to support meaningful scientific discovery then this is your opportunity to join one of Australia's most respected research organisations.

Your high-level duties will include:

• Diagnosing, repairing and maintaining a wide range of mechanical and marine research equipment, both in the workshop and at sea.
• Supporting field operations, including up to 85 days at sea each year on research voyages of 20–60 days.
• Participating in planning and execution of technical projects, taking ownership of key tasks and ensuring high-quality outcomes.
• Maintaining documentation, reporting, and contributing to team training and knowledge-sharing.
• Engaging with scientists and project partners to understand operational needs and deliver effective technical solutions.
• Driving innovation and continuous improvement in mechanical systems, processes, and safety practices.

Role particulars

Location and office arrangements: Hobart, Tasmania

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

Tenure & work schedule: Indefinite, full time. Up to 85 days at sea each year on research voyages of 20–60 days.

Reference: 101289

As the successful candidate, you will bring:

• A mechanical trade qualification or equivalent extensive hands-on experience in a mechanical or field engineering role.
• Proven expertise in safe lifting, securing, and handling of equipment in workshop and field environments.
• Strong mechanical tooling and troubleshooting skills, with the ability to adapt to changing conditions.
• High level of computer literacy, including familiarity with documentation, reporting, and communication software.
• A solid understanding of workplace safety standards and a proactive approach to managing risk.

Desirable

• Experience working in marine, remote, or field-based environments, including extended travel or onboard operations.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate across diverse technical and scientific teams.

For full details about this role, and other criteria, please review the Position Description.

Not sure if you meet all the criteria?

While it is CSIRO policy that the successful candidate must meet all the essential criteria, there are many ways to demonstrate this. Don't let the list discourage you. If you are unsure about applying, please reach out to the contact person in the Position Description.

Setting you up for success

We are committed to providing a recruitment process that is fair, equitable and accessible to everyone. We recognise that it may be helpful for us to adjust our process to make it equitable for your individual situation. Please contact Vicki Ferrar ) and let us know how we can support you.

Life at CSIRO and flexible work arrangements

We work flexibly at CSIRO, offering a range of options for how, when and where you work. We can discuss flexible work arrangements with you during the recruitment process. CSIRO also offers a range of leave entitlements, benefits and career development opportunities. To find out more, visit Careers at CSIRO.

Inclusion and belonging

Solving Australia's greatest challenges takes a diversity of minds and lived experiences. We know diverse teams are more effective and deliver more innovative outcomes. As an equal employment opportunity organisation, we are committed to creating diverse and inclusive teams where people feel they belong. We recognise true diversity encompasses all ages, abilities, cultures, faiths, levels of education, genders, sexualities, diversity of thought and much more. We focus on hiring people who share our values of People First, Further Together, Making it Real and Trusted.

CSIRO holds Gold Status for the Australian Workplace Equality Index for LGBTQIA+ inclusion, and a Science in Australia Gender Equity Bronze Award.

Eligibility

Applications for this position are open to Australian/New Zealand citizens and Australian Permanent residents only.

Appointment to this role is subject to provision of a national police check and you must be willing and able to work at sea and to travel extensively in order to provide operational support in domestic or foreign ports (up to 85 days per year of seagoing support on voyages that are typically 2 to 6 weeks in duration).

Due to the specific nature of this role, the successful candidate will be required to obtain an MNF remote medical clearance (post-commencement) and a Marine Security Identification Card (MSIC).

Child safety

CSIRO is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people involved in our activities and programs. View our Child Safe Policy.

How to apply

Please apply online and submit a cover letter (maximum 2 pages) and CV that demonstrate your motivation and ability to meet the essential requirements of this role.

Applications close

Sunday, 16 November 2025, 11:59pm AEDT