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 learning experience, improving individual student outcomes, quality of life and a better way to learn. Our world-ranked research is driving positive impact for our communities, environment and economy.

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

The Office of the Senior Deputy Vice Chancellor leads the development and enhancement of the University’s research strategy, focusing on research, researcher development, ethics, impact communication, and innovation. It also fosters local, national, and international research collaborations and partnerships, while supporting research activities across the University, including grants, research data, and Higher Degrees Research.

Southern Cross University is seeking a Grants and Contracts Officer. Your core responsibilities will include:

• Contribute to enhancing the quality and quantity of funded research projects and partnerships to drive the University’s research excellence and impact
• Provide strategic advice, technical support, and mentoring to researchers and applicants seeking research funding
• Oversee all aspects of research grant applications and external funding submissions, ensuring quality assurance, policy interpretation, and compliance reviews
• Offer comprehensive administration support to finalise contracts and agreements, ensuring approving delegates understand the terms and associated risks
• Liaise with internal and external stakeholders to facilitate efficiently, timely, and compliant approvals and execution of research contracts, while identifying and mitigating potential risks

About you

You will be a detail-oriented and process-driven professional, with a strong passion for research contracts and a proven ability to secure research funding. More specifically, you will have:

• Relevant tertiary qualification and a minimum of four years’ experience in research and/or contract administration, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Demonstrated experience in working with external legislative and governance frameworks, as well as internal policies, with a proven ability to interpret and apply legislation, policies, and procedures in a practical workplace context
• Strong ability to collaborate effectively within a team, providing project-based support to colleagues and building productive working relationships with stakeholders, including legal service providers
• Proven commitment to delivering quality service, with a track record of providing responsive, user-friendly client service
• Exceptional problem solving, judgement, and initiative skills, combined with high level organisational abilities and time management skills to effectively manage multiple tasks and deadlines

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 either Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450, Gold Coast, QLD 4225, or Lismore, NSW 2480. Generous relocation support available.
• HEW Level 7. The base salary ranges from $104,697 - $113,681 per annum, plus 17% employer’s contribution to superannuation. The total remuneration package is up to $133,006.

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 [email protected].

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

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.

Closing Date: 11.30pm Sunday, 20 April 2025

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.