Senior Technician

• Become an integral part of cutting-edge research in a dynamic environment.
• Lead the way in providing exceptional care and management for laboratory animals.
• Full-time appointment on a permanent/ongoing basis.
• Base salary range: $76,422 – $84,705 p.a. plus 17% superannuation.

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research intensive universities. With a strong research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, supported by the freedom to innovate and inspire, there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top university.

About the team
Animal Care Services (ACS) ensures the wellbeing and ethical treatment of laboratory animals used in research and teaching at the University. We maintain the highest standards of care and compliance with legal and statutory requirements.

About the opportunity
Reporting to the Coordinator, you will oversee laboratory animal care and facility operations, providing essential support to teaching and research within Animal Care Services. This role involves maintaining compliance and confidentiality, requiring a high level of surveillance and diplomacy in interactions with stakeholders.

Key responsibilities:

• Provide ongoing care and management of laboratory animals, collaborating closely with researchers to ensure their well-being.
• Ensure compliance with legislative and authority requirements, including Australian Biosecurity standards.
• Supervise, train, and allocate duties to staff in alignment with Animal Care Services Standard Operating Procedures.
• Plan and liaise with research groups to meet the facility's evolving needs effectively.
• Proficiently collect biological samples, conduct experimental techniques, and maintain detailed records.
• Advise and assist research groups in project planning and execution.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of Standard Operating Procedures, ensuring adherence among research personnel.
• Maintain records and prepare facility documentation as required.

About you
To be considered for this opportunity, you will demonstrate:

• A Certificate in Animal Technology or equivalent competency.
• Sound knowledge of the Australian Code for the Care and Use of Animals for Scientific Purposes.
• Extensive managerial experience in laboratory animal care within a university environment.
• Demonstrated proficiency in biohazard containment procedures.
• Strong computing skills including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, internet, and email.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a focus on team-building and collaboration.
• Proven ability to train, supervise, and coordinate staff with varying skill levels.
• Highly developed organisational skills with the ability to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines.
• Ability to work independently, demonstrate initiative, and problem-solve effectively.

Special Requirements:

• Willingness to undertake some after-hours work as needed.
• Possession of a current "C" class driver’s license.
• Current National Police Clearance Certificate.
• Physical capability to meet the demands of the position.
• Recommended vaccinations including Tetanus, Hepatitis B, COVID, Influenza, and Q Fever.

About your application
Full details of the position's responsibilities and the selection criteria are outlined in the position description:  Position description - Senior Technician (517347).pdf

You are required to address the selection criteria in your submission in a separate document. For information to assist you with compiling statements to answer the selection criteria, please visit Addressing the selection criteria.

Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Tuesday, 14 May 2024.

To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Carmel Wilson on (08) 6488 47***or at *************@uwa.edu.au. 

This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia.

Application Details: Please apply online via the Apply Now button.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity
UWA is committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace. We celebrate difference and believe diversity is fundamental to achieving our goals as a globally recognised Top 100 educational and research institution. We are committed to creating a safe work environment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community and people living with disability.

• We have a globally competitive, gender neutral parental leave policy with 26 weeks paid leave after 12 months service and 36 weeks after 5 years.
• We have on-campus childcare facilities for children aged 6 weeks to kindy.
• We facilitate flexible working, with part-time and job-sharing arrangements considered.
• We have an ongoing partnership with Pride in Diversity and were recently awarded a Bronze Employer status for LGBTIQA+ inclusion.
• We have Athena SWAN Bronze accreditation and actively work to improve gender equity.