Careers at UniSC

• Office of the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Global & Engagement) | UniSC Fraser Coast
• Professional Level 6 - $92,964 - $100,603 p.a. (pro rata) plus up to 17% employer superannuation
• Part time, 21.75 hours per week, fixed term appointment until 31 August 2026

The Opportunity

UniSC’s Milbi Centre: Sea Turtle Research and Rehabilitation plays a vital role in the conservation and recovery of sea turtles in the Fraser Coast region and beyond. As part of the Office of the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Global & Engagement), the Centre supports research, education, and community engagement aligned with UniSC’s core values and strategic goals.

This is a unique opportunity for a dedicated and experienced Senior Operations Officer to lead the daily operations of a purpose-driven marine wildlife rehabilitation facility. In this hands-on role, you’ll oversee sea turtle care, manage staff and volunteers, ensure ethical compliance, and build strong partnerships with researchers and external stakeholders—all within a values-driven team focused on conservation, Indigenous engagement, and scientific excellence.

You will

• lead the daily operations of the Milbi Centre, ensuring high-quality care and rehabilitation of sea turtles in line with approved guidelines;
• supervise, train, and support staff and volunteers, fostering a safe, respectful, and high-performing team culture;
• coordinate animal care activities with veterinarians and academic staff, maintaining accurate records and ensuring compliance; and
• manage critical equipment, facilities, and seawater systems to support safe and efficient Centre operations.

About you

You are a passionate and experienced professional with a background in animal care, marine biology, veterinary science, or a related field. With a hands-on approach and strong leadership skills, you thrive in fast-paced, mission-driven environments where teamwork, safety, and ethical standards are paramount.

Your ability to manage people and resources, communicate effectively, and uphold rigorous animal care protocols will position you for success. You value cultural engagement, scientific best practice, and collaborative impact – and you’re ready to bring these values to life in your daily work.

You will possess:

• a relevant degree in veterinary science, marine biology, zoology, or equivalent qualifications/experience in animal care or wildlife rehabilitation;
• direct, hands-on experience in sea turtle rehabilitation or similar wildlife care, including treatment protocols and life support systems;
• strong leadership and supervisory experience, with the ability to support staff and volunteers in a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment;
• familiarity with cultural protocols, preferably those relevant to the Butchulla people and region;
• proven ability to manage resources, budgets, and operations effectively;
• sound communication skills, with experience in stakeholder engagement, reporting, and community education initiatives; and
• proficiency in maintaining and operating specialist marine life support equipment and systems.

UniSC is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, women in STEM, First Nations Peoples, and individuals of diverse cultures, genders, abilities, and experiences. We value achievement relative to opportunity and encourage your commentary on your achievements in this context. For additional support during the application process, please contact us at unisc-careers@usc.edu.au or call +61 7 5430 2830.

Position Description - 493535 - Senior Operations Officer

All applications must be lodged through our website. To apply please visit our website at: Careers at UniSC

Applications for this position close midnight, midnight, Tuesday 12 August 2025.  

Your completed application must include

• a resume, noting your application will be reviewed in alignment to the specified selection criteria as outlined within the position description. There will be opportunity within the application form to also include supporting documentation should you wish.

Further information regarding how to prepare your application is available on our website: Join our team

UniSC does not accept unsolicited applications. For agency inquiries, contact unisc-careers@usc.edu.au

We would love the opportunity to get to know you better, but we know it works both ways. To get to know a little more about us, visit us at: Welcome to UniSC and LinkedIn Life

Have questions or want to know more? For a confidential discussion, please contact:

Michelle Hay
Head, USC Fraser Coast – UniSC Fraser Coast
Telephone: 07 5456 5684
Email: mhay1@usc.edu.au 

Discover UniSC

We're all about doing work that matters, connecting with great people, and being part of an incredible journey. We’re not the biggest university. But we’re growing every day, and doing big things. Like ground-breaking research, championing sustainability, producing gold-winning athletes and award-winning alumni.

We're one of the fastest growing universities in Australia, growing to over 2,000 people across 5 campuses in South East Queensland.

Teaching excellence is at the heart of what we do, and our commitment to sustainability is integrated into our teaching, research, and daily operations. Our research tackles the most pressing challenges of our time, with 26 research fields ranked at or above world standard according to the Excellence in Research for Australia Rankings. At UniSC you will have the opportunity to contribute to the educational landscape for future generations.

We foster a collaborative and supportive environment, encouraging continuous professional development and providing resources to enhance your career. We recognise and value the contributions of each team member to our culture and success. We're not afraid to be different, and we're looking for people who share our values and want to be part of a team that is working together to improve our local and global challenges.

Our Culture & Benefits:

• Our collaborative, passionate and welcoming culture is what really sets us apart.
• Modern teaching & research facilities.
• Professional development and career pathway opportunities.
• We are a proud recipient of the prestigious Athena SWAN Bronze Award, granted as part of the Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) initiative.
• Flexible work arrangements & generous leave options.
• Salary packing options + 17% Super.
• EAP, fitness passport & discounted private health.