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
Southern Cross University is on an ambitious journey to redefine how technology empowers learning, research, and community impact. We're building a future-ready technology organisation – modern, secure, adaptable, and driven by innovation. Our teams are embracing emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, to deliver smarter services and real-world benefits for students, staff, and the wider community.
Within Technology Services, our five dynamic work units – Data, Architecture & Integration, Cyber Resilience, Digital Delivery & Innovation, Technology Platforms, and Operations & Services – work collaboratively to deliver high-impact solutions across the University.
We're now seeking a visionary Application Development & Engineering Principal to lead enterprise-wide application development across all university domains. This senior role combines deep architectural expertise with strategic leadership, shaping technical direction, mentoring teams, and delivering transformational digital initiatives.
Reporting to the Executive Director, Technology Delivery, you'll lead application engineers and developers while actively influencing engineering culture and innovation strategy across SCUs evolving technology ecosystem
You will make an impact by:
* Establishing enterprise-wide coding standards, frameworks, and DevOps practices
* Designing complex full stack solutions using modern UX/UI and Microsoft technologies
* Building and mentoring high-performing engineering teams across university platforms
* Leading digital transformation programs and platform modernization initiatives
* Driving talent development, technical excellence, and continuous learning
* Collaborating with executive leadership to align technology with strategic goals
What you will bring
You're an expert engineer and inspiring technical leader, driven to solve complex challenges, elevate engineering capability, and build digital solutions that deliver lasting impact. You thrive in collaborative environments and enjoy developing people as much as platforms.
To succeed in this role, you will also need:
* A degree in IT or Software Engineering, with industry certifications
* Ideally 10+ years of software engineering experience, including 4+ years in technical leadership
* Expert knowledge of .NET, C#, Azure, SQL Server, and enterprise platforms such as TechnologyOne, Microsoft Dynamics, and Blackboard
* Deep experience in Test Driven Development, CI/CD, and secure, scalable solution delivery
* Proven ability to coach and grow high-performing engineering teams in agile environments
* A passion for continuous learning, innovation, and building strong technical communities
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:
* Full-time, continuing (permanent)
* Located at either Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450, Gold Coast, QLD 4225, or Lismore, NSW 2480. Relocation assistance is available, making it easier to join our regional communities
* The level of appointment will be commensurate with the candidate's qualifications, skills and experience.
You will enjoy a range of perks designed to support your wellbeing, growth and work-life balance. 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.
To view the full position advertisement and details of the application process, please click on the APPLY button where you will be redirected to the Southern Cross University website.
Applications close 11.30pm AEST 28 October 2025
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 responding to the selection criteria within the position description. 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