- Empower Indigenous communities to monitor estuary health in Gumbaynggirr Sea country
- Apply marine ecology expertise developing environmental monitoring resources and training tools
- Casual opportunity averaging 1 day per week for up to 3 years
Be Bold. Belong. Be More.
At Southern Cross University, we do things differently, and so can you.
A career with us is more than you might expect. Yes, it’s about the heart, connectedness and community you’d hope for in a regional university. But there’s also so much more. Our game changing Southern Cross Model brings a deeper, focused learning experience and our research is deeply connected to our regions, making a difference on a global scale. This is your chance to help us build something new and meaningful for our students, our communities and your career. To drive change, make a real impact, and thrive in a place as unique as you.
You can be good anywhere. Here, you can be great.
Your opportunity
Based at the National Marine Science Centre, this Project Officer role supports the NSW Environmental Trust steering committee “Empowering Indigenous communities to monitor and measure estuary health and cultural resources in Gumbaynggirr Sea Country”. This is a hands-on, field-based opportunity suited to someone with strong marine ecology skills who enjoys working with diverse stakeholders and leading practical environmental monitoring activities. You will play a key role in supporting workshops, Indigenous ranger training, facilitating fieldwork and helping ensure project milestones and outcomes are successfully delivered.
You will make an impact by:
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Supporting stakeholder workshops, On-Country field days and community engagement activities
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Delivering training and ongoing support to Indigenous rangers in environmental monitoring techniques and data collection methods
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Developing standard operating procedures and assisting with training resources and project materials to support long-term capability building
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Monitoring project progress, supporting reporting requirements and contributing to project governance activities
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Building strong relationships across research staff, students, Traditional Owners, Indigenous organisations and project partners
What you will bring
You are a capable and organised environmental professional who combines practical marine ecology expertise with the ability to work effectively alongside community partners, researchers and Indigenous ranger groups. Comfortable leading activities in the field, you enjoy coordinating people, managing competing priorities and helping projects achieve meaningful outcomes.
To succeed in this role, you will also need:
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A Bachelor of Science with specialisation in marine or environmental science, or equivalent, plus experience working in a relevant field with proven skills in marine ecology.
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Proven ability to effectively communicate with diverse stakeholders in both written and verbal expression and effectively train others to undertake field work and standardised scientific tasks.
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Demonstrated ability to prioritise a variety of competing tasks and show initiative, with evidence of a logical and organised approach to work and attention to detail.
- High level of computer literacy skills, analytical and problem-solving skills
- Ability to work flexible and irregular work hours on a casual basis
- Demonstrated commitment to cultural diversity and a working knowledge of equity and WHS principles in the workplace.
Why Southern Cross University
SCU is proudly a regional university, young, small and vibrant. That means you’ll find more exposure, opportunity and ownership - to grow, achieve and build a career that means more. And you’ll do it alongside passionate people and leaders who go the extra mile to help you succeed. A career with us is about more than just work. It’s about place, community and the life you want to live. With three main campuses at the Gold Coast, Coffs Harbour and the Northern Rivers region of NSW, we’re integral to all these wonderful communities. Find your place and be more in this beautiful part of the world.
Your opportunity is:
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A casual role averaging approximately 1 day per week for up to 3 years
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Located at either Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450
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HEW Level 5. The current hourly rate is from $57.20 an hour, plus superannuation.
For more information on our benefits and what it’s like to work at SCU, visit Why work at Southern Cross University?
Be more with Southern Cross University today
Southern Cross University values potential as much as experience. If you do not meet all the listed requirements but are excited about the role and confident you can contribute, we encourage you to apply or reach out for more information.
Name: Professor Kirsten Benkendorff
Phone: 0429 520 589
Email: [email protected]
Applications close 11.30pm AEST 26 July 2026
Eligible applicants must have Australian or New Zealand citizenship, Australian permanent residency or current working rights in Australia for the entire duration of the appointment. Employer visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
Applicants must apply online and attach a CV and cover letter. The cover letter must clearly address each dot point listed in the “What you will bring” section of this advert. Information to support you prepare your application is available on our website.
Southern Cross University celebrates the rich diversity of our regions and international community. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace that welcomes and values people of all backgrounds. We encourage applications from people of all genders, ethnicities, ages, languages, sexual orientations, and people with disabilities. We are dedicated to providing reasonable adjustments to our recruitment process to ensure every candidate can fully participate. For any support through the recruitment process reach out to [email protected].
Position description
