Reference Number225251 - AI Capability Engineer
AI Capability Engineer
LabNext70
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Fixed term to (12months), full-time,
- $116,342 to $ 135,019 per annum HEO8 + 17% super
- Salary packaging options available
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Generous leave entitlements including Christmas shutdown, parental, cultural, gender affirmation & domestic violence
- 5 weeks annual leave + Christmas shutdown leave
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Armidale based role. Flexible or hybrid work arrangements available.
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Relocation assistance available
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Free on campus parking
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On campus gym and pool + sporting competitions
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Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and wellbeing support
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Diverse and supportive workplace with UNE Ally Network, Equity Committee, Queer Space
About the role
As the AI Capability Engineer at LabNext70, you won't just be talking about the future of AI youll be building it. This is a high-impact "maker" role where you will design, develop, and deploy the AI tools and integrations that elevate capability across the University and for our external industry partners.
You will be the lead architect for our MCP (Model Context Protocol) development, building the connective tissue that allows our AI services to interact seamlessly with complex data and enterprise systems. A major highlight of this role is the opportunity to extend the capabilities of our flagship Madgwick platform and contribute to LabNext70s commercialisation strategy by providing technical consulting directly to government and industry clients. Whether you are architecting a new database for an AI-native web app or mentoring the team on MLOps best practices, your work will be central to securing UNE's digital future.
About you
You are a technical powerhouse with a builder mindset and a passion for staying at the cutting edge of the agentic AI ecosystem. To be successful in this role, you will bring:
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Deep Technical Expertise: Extensive experience in Python or TypeScript, with a proven track record of building and deploying cloud-native AI applications, APIs, and robust data architectures.
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MCP Mastery: Hands-on experience developing Model Context Protocols and integrating AI services into diverse platform environments.
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A Consultants Lens: The ability to operate autonomously in client-facing environments, translating complex organisational requirements into scalable, production-ready technical solutions.
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Modern DevOps Practice: Proficiency with Docker, CI/CD pipelines, and a commitment to high-quality, secure, and well-tested code.
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Clear Communication: A natural ability to bridge the gap between technical complexity and business value, whether you're writing architectural guidance or presenting a prototype to a non-technical stakeholder.
LabNext70 drives applied innovation and the strategic integration of artificial intelligence within the university. The Labs activities span three integrated pillars:
1. Academic Innovation and Research: Leading an applied research program to design, pilot, and ship next-generation learning models, while accelerating the university's fundamental research agenda through AI integration and strategic collaboration with centres and institutes.
2. Strategic Partnerships and Commercial Enablement: Forging high-value industry partnerships and developing technology products that resource the Lab¿s mission, positioning the university at the forefront of the AI sector.
3. University-wide Integration and Capability: Embedding AI literacy, tools, and processes across academic and professional domains to elevate quality, efficiency, and equity, helping to co-architect the next-generation enterprise ecosystem that secures the universitys digital future.
Enquiries
To discuss this role please contact Shannon Tyrrell, AI Innovation Lead, email: [email protected].
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If you require any adjustments or support to fully participate such as an alternative format for the application form please contact your Talent Acquisition Consultant at [email protected] or on 02 6773 3705.
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If you have a disability and would like a confidential conversation about working at UNE, you are welcome to contact our Health, Safety and Wellbeing Team.
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For further information about this position, please see the Position Statement below.
Please visit for further information about this position and other career opportunities at UNE.
To Apply
Closing Date: 11:59pm, Sunday 21 June 2026
Reference No: 225251
Please submit the following documents by clicking the Apply Now button below:
Submit your application through and refer to vacancy ref 225251
Your application should be comprised of:
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Covering letter;
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Responses to selection criteria
- Current CV.
Applicants must have appropriate Australian work rights for the duration of this position.
About Armidale
Armidale is an attractive and vibrant city that combines all the features of a bustling regional town centre with the tranquility of rural living. It boasts gourmet restaurants and cafes, boutique shopping, quality schools and sporting facilities. Surrounded by mountain gorges, waterfalls and national parks, Armidales natural beauty and distinct seasons make it an ideal place to live and thrive. experience . Information about relocation assistance.
UNE: A Diverse and Inclusive Workplace
At UNE, we believe our strength comes from the diversity of our people and the unique perspectives they bring. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone is valued and empowered to contribute their best.
We warmly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, individuals with lived experience of mental health or disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those who identify as LGBTIQIA+.
UNE is committed to enabling all staff to thrive and ensuring that our LGBTIQIA+ community and staff from all cultures feel included and respected. Our UNE Ally Network is here for staff and students and for any questions, contact our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Consultant.
About Our Process
At UNE, we are committed to employing individuals who meet the requirements of this role and align with our values: Be Bold, Be Kind, Be Accountable, Be Connected. All applicants will be contacted and advised of an outcome. The successful candidate will be required to undertake pre-employment checks prior to commencing in this role as indicated in the position statement.
If you are the preferred candidate for this role you will be required to provide UNE with a National Police Check prior to the university making an offer of employment. Please note that people with criminal records are not automatically excluded from applying for this position (unless there is a particular requirement under law).
Please visit our Privacy Statement to understand how your information is collected, stored, accessed and used.
