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’s Faculty of Education is a bold and future focused academic community renowned for its global leadership in collaborative, creative, and transdisciplinary education and research. With a strong presence in Early Childhood Education and Care, and an ambition to lead profound and sustainable educational change, we are seeking an Associate Professor in Early Childhood Education and Care to play a key leadership role in teaching, research, and engagement across the Faculty.

In this role you will provide academic and strategic leadership in curriculum development and learning design, contribute to research at a national or international level, and foster strong engagement with the profession, community, and broader university. You will also mentor emerging academics and help shape the next generation of ECEC educators and scholars

You will make an impact by:

• Leading high-quality teaching and curriculum innovation in Early Childhood Education and Care
• Driving research excellence through publication, grant success, and HDR supervision
• Contributing to Faculty leadership, governance and strategic initiatives
• Mentoring early career academics and fostering scholarly collaboration
• Engaging with professional, community and sector partners to strengthen impact

What you will bring

You’re a respected leader in Early Childhood Education and Care, driven by innovation and purpose in both teaching and research.

To succeed in this role, you will also need:

• A PhD or Professional Doctorate in Early Childhood Education or relevant field, plus an initial teacher education degree
• An established national or international research profile with high-quality publications and research grant success
• Demonstrated excellence and leadership in tertiary teaching, curriculum design, and student outcomes
• Strong leadership capabilities, including mentoring, team development, and academic governance
• A commitment to equity, cultural inclusion, and the ongoing development of a dynamic learning community

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.
• ACAD Level D. The base salary ranges from $167,446 - $184,176 per annum, plus 17% employer’s contribution to superannuation. The total remuneration package is up to $215,485.

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 5 November 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 [email protected].