The Opportunity
Due to growth, the School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering at UNSW is seeking a motivated Technical Officer / Senior Technical Officer with strong practical engineering capability, a commitment to safe and efficient laboratory operations, and the ability to support both teaching and research. We're looking for someone who is proactive, collaborative and confident working with specialised equipment, able to translate technical requirements into practical solutions, and comfortable engaging with students, academics and technical colleagues.
This job is based in Australia.
Key Responsibilities
* Support our aerospace teaching and research facilities, including the operation and maintenance of the flight simulator and the aerodynamics laboratory with its four wind tunnels and specialised experimental rigs.
* Work closely with academics, researchers and undergraduate students to design, build and refine experimental setups while maintaining high standards of safety, reliability and performance.
* Contribute to the day‐to‐day operation of the School's broader laboratory environment, managing equipment, coordinating user training, maintaining safe work practices and supporting continuous improvement.
* Oversee the safe operation and maintenance of laboratory materials and equipment, and assist staff and students in the design and construction of experimental apparatus across teaching and research facilities.
* Report to the Laboratory Manager; the role has no direct reports.
Compensation
* Level 6 – $103,866 to $110,801 per annum + 17 % superannuation
* Level 7 – $113,926 to $123,301 per annum + 17 % superannuation
* Full time
* Permanent
* Location: Kensington – Sydney, Australia
Skills and Experience Level 6
* A relevant qualification with subsequent practical experience and/or an equivalent level of knowledge gained through any other combination of education, training or experience. A trade qualification in Engineering (fitting and machining Certificate III or IV) is highly desirable.
* Experience in CAD drawings using software such as SolidWorks or equivalent.
* Proficient computing skills including word processing, spreadsheets and databases.
* Demonstrated experience implementing safety systems and initiatives, including training students and/or staff in safe working practices in a complex laboratory environment.
* Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills with a focus on understanding business requirements and translating this into technical concepts and written documentation.
* Capability to manage purchasing of chemicals, equipment and other materials in compliance with statutory and University requirements.
* Demonstrated ability to manage competing deadlines and the ability to work both independently and as part of a wider technical team for the benefit of the School.
* Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training.
Level 7
* Extensive experience managing complex laboratory or workshop equipment used in the MME Laboratories.
* Knowledge and experience in at least one or more areas of mechanical or manufacturing engineering: mechatronics, engines, combustion, aerodynamics, vibration, fluids, lasers, refrigeration, energy systems, composite materials, manufacturing or advanced materials.
* Extensive knowledge of hazardous materials and dangerous goods (HMDG) and their safe management.
* Demonstrated experience in managing budgets, purchasing and assets or design/implementation of systems for teaching laboratories or research groups or equivalent.
* High level analytical and problem‐solving skills, with the ability to investigate and make informed decisions regarding complex issues.
* Experience driving a culture of continuous improvement, providing recommendations for new methodologies and solutions to improve laboratory systems and procedures.
* Proven experience developing and implementing safety systems in a laboratory context.
Benefits and Culture
* 17 % Superannuation and leave loading
* A supportive, flexible, and inclusive culture that values wellbeing and diversity
* Generous leave entitlements, including an additional 3 paid days off over end‐of‐year holiday period
* Access to Fitness Passport, giving you and your family discounted access to hundreds of gyms, pools and fitness facilities
* Additional 3 days of leave over the Christmas Period
* Career development opportunities, including access to leadership and professional learning programs
Pre‐Employment Checks
* National and International Criminal history checks
* Entitlement to work and ID checks
* Working With Children Checks
* Completion of a Gender‐Based Violence Prevention Declaration
* Verification of relevant qualifications
* Verification of relevant professional membership
* Employment history and reference checks
* Financial responsibility assessments / checks
* Medical checks and assessments
To Apply
Please click the "apply now" button and submit your CV, Cover Letter and Responses to the Skills and Experience. Systematically address the Skills and Experience listed within the position description in your application.
Applicants must have working rights in Australia and be able to be on site in Kensington.
Applications will not be accepted if sent to the contact listed below.
Contact
For role‐specific inquiries, please contact Joshua Brandt (Laboratory Manager) – E:
For questions regarding the recruitment process, please contact Eugene Aves (Talent Acquisition Partner) – E:
Applications close: 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Sunday 22 March 2026
UNSW is committed to evolving a culture that embraces equity and supports a diverse and inclusive community where everyone can participate fairly, in a safe and respectful environment. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and encourage applications from people of diverse gender, sexual orientation, cultural and linguistic backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background, people with disability and those with caring and family responsibilities. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.
For further information on our school, visit https://www.unsw.edu.au/engineering/our-schools/mechanical-and-manufacturing-engineering
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