Technical Officer (Veterinary Animal Handling)

• Work hands-on with animals in a dynamic university teaching and learning environment
• Full-time, continuing opportunity based at SCU’s stunning Lismore campus
• Remuneration package up to $104,969 including 17% super

About us

Southern Cross University is a dynamic, ambitious institution focused on its purpose of changing lives through revolutionary learning and research with real impact. Our game changing Southern Cross Model brings a deeper, focused learning experience with demonstrated improvement in student success. In 2024, Southern Cross University placed 100th in the world in the Times Higher Education Young University Ranking.

Working at Southern Cross University combines a rare combination of being surrounded by ambitious students, dedicated colleagues and an environment of stunning natural beauty. We are leaders in our communities in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, Coffs Harbour and the Gold Coast and pride ourselves on helping shape a better tomorrow.

About the opportunity

Southern Cross University’s Faculty of Science and Engineering is launching new veterinary units and is seeking a Technical Officer (Veterinary Animal Handling) to provide high-level technical and administrative assistance in animal husbandry, handling, welfare and management.

This is a practical, hands-on role working alongside academic staff, technical teams and students to ensure animal use in teaching and research is conducted to the highest ethical and welfare standards. Key responsibilities include:

• Working with external partner organisations and academic staff to facilitate animal husbandry, handling, welfare and behaviour teaching.
• Maintaining and preparing animal resources, teaching spaces, equipment and learning materials for practical classes.
• Supporting academic staff and students with safe and ethical animal handling procedures.
• Maintaining accurate records and compliance with animal ethics, biosecurity, professional accreditation, and WHS protocols.

About you

You will be a confident animal handler with excellent attention to detail, a methodical approach to your work and a passion for animal care and welfare. Your ability to work both independently and as part of a technical team will ensure your success in this role. In addition, you will have:

• A relevant degree and 2 years’ experience in a related field. Registration as a Veterinary Technician (VNCA) and/or clinical experience as a veterinary nurse will be highly regarded, though not a requirement.
• Demonstrated experience in caring for and handling a variety of animals, ideally in an educational or research environment.
• Strong knowledge of animal ethics and welfare practices, and an understanding of safe animal handling protocols.
• Sound organisational and administrative skills, including accurate record keeping and compliance with procedures.
• Current or future vaccination for Q Fever and tetanus, manual handling of heavy equipment or animals and current Senior First Aid and Resuscitation certificates.

Salary and benefits

Our staff benefit from flexible work arrangements, including hybrid work models, generous parental and carer’s leave provisions, wellbeing initiatives, employee assistance programs and professional learning opportunities. This position is:

• Full-time, continuing (permanent)
• Located at Lismore, NSW 2480.
• HEW Level 5. The base salary ranges from $80,737 - $89,717 per annum, plus 17% employer’s contribution to superannuation. The total remuneration package is up to $104,969.

Find out more about working at SCU by visiting Why Work at SCU.

Application requirements

Applicants must apply online and attach a CV and cover letter responding to the selection criteria within the position description by the closing date. Information to support you prepare your application is available on our website. If you experience difficulties applying online or need reasonable adjustments at any point in the application or interview process, please let us know by contacting jobs@scu.edu.au.

Job applicants must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen, Australian permanent resident or currently hold a visa with ongoing work rights in Australia. Employer visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Further information

Additional information is available in the position description or by contacting:

Southern Cross University is committed to ensuring that the University reflects the rich diversity across the region in which the University’s campuses are located.

The University encourages applications from people of all ages, women, Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people, people living with disabilities, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and people who are LGBTQI+.

We encourage applications from people with disability and will provide adjustments to the recruitment process upon request.

Together, we are Transforming Tomorrow.

Position description