Reference Number: 1612279
About the Role:
Curtin University is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Contracts and Commercial Officer to join the Contracts and Commercial Team within the Research Office. Reporting to the Contracts and Commercial Team Lead, this senior role supports Curtin’s research strategy by delivering high-quality contractual and commercial services across both researcher-driven and demand-driven research activities.
You will be responsible for the development, review and negotiation of research-related commercial contracts, while providing contractual and commercial advice to internal stakeholders and external partners. The role works closely with internal and external legal service providers, researchers and industry collaborators to support strategic research outcomes across the University.
In addition to managing complex contractual matters, you will support the Team Lead in fostering a collaborative, values-led culture, including guiding junior staff, providing stakeholder support and supporting team leadership and operational continuity in the Team Lead’s absence when required.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Provide expert advice, support and guidance in relation to a broad range of research related contracts and commercial matters, to inform effective risk management and mitigation decisions within a contractual and commercial context.
- Draft, review and negotiate research and commercial consultancy and services contracts, among others, for the University using professional skill and diligence.
- Represent Curtin in external contract and commercial negotiations and discussions, including contractual and commercial negotiations with partners and funders on strategic contracts and with strategic relationships.
- Contribute to positive culture and provide guidance to the group by being visible, role modelling and acting in accordance with Curtin’s values and signature behaviours.
- Take a lead role in the development of training and knowledge sharing documents to provide commercially supportive documents for stakeholders.
- Provide guidance to junior staff.
- Engage and collaborate with key internal university service providers.
Who we are looking for (selection criteria):
- Postgraduate qualification in a relevant area (law or commerce) or equivalent education and training.
- Demonstrated legal or commercial contract experience, with experience in contract development and negotiation.
- Demonstrated strong time management and organisational skills including a demonstrated ability to meet deadlines, prioritise and coordinate multiple tasks effectively.
- Proven ability to successfully analyse and resolve complex issues/problems.
- Demonstrated ability to guide, coach and supervise other staff.
- Excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to navigate sensitive situations constructively, work collaboratively, develop strong relationships and networks.
- Demonstrated commercial acumen and proven record of successfully delivering business outcomes.
- Proven ability to negotiate and influence a diverse range of stakeholders.
Desirable
- Experience in research management within a tertiary institution, with a solid understanding of the academic and research environment.
- Experience in interpreting and applying policies and procedures, with the ability to provide clear, professional, and consultative advice to a wide range of stakeholders, would be highly regarded.
Role Requirements:
- As this is a continuing (permanent) role, you will require permanent work rights in Australia to be considered
- Successful applicants are subject to a National Police Clearance, and background, integrity, and reference checks to Curtin’s satisfaction
The Contracts and Commercial Team provides research support services to assist in the delivery of Curtin’s research strategy for both researcher-driven and demand-driven research.
The Team works closely with Legal Services, Commercialisation and internal stakeholders to deliver commercial, risk appropriate contracting frameworks. Forging strong partnerships within the University, industry and other external institutions, the Team negotiates strategic and service agreements to build the University research portfolio.
About Curtin University
Curtin University proudly stands among the top one percent of global universities according to the ARWU 2025 rankings. We are an energetic, dedicated team of academics and professionals working together to provide global solutions through quality graduates and innovative research. Curtin is a welcoming space where integrity, respect for one another, courage, excellence, and impact are essential to everyday life. First Nations people, those identifying as LGBTQIA+, parents, carers, people of all ages, abilities and genders, and people of diverse ethnicity, nationality and faith are encouraged to apply. Our aim is to create a workforce that reflects the diversity of the community in which we live. For more information, please visit our Diversity and Inclusion page - https://staff.curtin.edu.au/discover-curtin/diversity-equity-and-inclusion-at-curtin/
What We Offer You:
This full-time, ongoing (permanent) role attracts a remuneration of $119,125 - $126,950 (G08) + 17% superannuation.
Situated on Whadjuk Nyungar Country, our vibrant Bentley campus includes an art gallery, gym, childcare and medical centre, bus station, accessible parking and endless food options including a supermarket. Aside from the vibrant campus life, we offer more than just a job. Curtin offers a wide range of generous benefits, including additional leave, salary packaging, health and wellbeing services and an array of discounts for retail, travel and much more.
For more reasons to work at Curtin, please visit https://staff.curtin.edu.au/discover-curtin/
Join Us!
If this sounds like your next role, please click APPLY NOW ensuring to attach the following documents:
- Up to date resume
- Cover Letter outlining your interest and demonstrating how your background meets the position’s selection criteria (noted above) - no more than two pages
If you have any queries in relation to this opportunity or the application process, please contact our careers team on
[email protected] or 08 9266 9000 (option 3,1), quoting the reference number. Please note applications will not be accepted via this email address.
Applications close: 9:00pm (AWST) on Thursday, 4 June 2026.
Late applications or applications received via email will not be considered, and only successful candidates will be contacted.
Please note we are not accepting applications from recruitment agencies at this time.
Curtin reserves the right at its sole discretion to withdraw from the recruitment process, not to make an appointment, or to appoint by invitation, at any time. We reserve the right to remove the advert earlier than the date on the advert. 