• One of Australia’s leading research & teaching universities
• Vibrant campus life with a strong sense of community & inclusion
• Enjoy a career that makes a difference by collaborating & learning from the best

At UNSW, we pride ourselves on being a workplace where the best people come to do their best work.

The School of Physics is one of the leading Physics schools in Australia. It offers a world class undergraduate physics degree, as well as a postgraduate PhD research program for over 50 students. 33 academic staff conduct theoretical and experimental research in quantum physics, astrophysics, fundamental physics; and condensed matter physics. UNSW is an international leader in quantum computing research and hosts the ARC Centre for Quantum Computation and Communication Technology.

The Technical and Safety Manager (Research) position is responsible for the operational management and development of research laboratories in the School of Physics. Working closely with researchers, Estate Management, contractors, and Safety this role provides stewardship of School research laboratory infrastructure, equipment, and safety. High-level technical support for infrastructure projects, procurement of complex scientific equipment, strategic planning and safety of the School is a focal aspect of this position. The Technical and Safety Manager (Research) is required to take a leading role in the management of WHS in the School, ensuring compliance with WHS legislation and UNSW protocols and procedures, managing WHS activities and developing and implementing School safety processes.

About the role

• $127K - $143K plus 17% superannuation and annual leave loading
• Continuing
• Full-time (35 hours per week)

The role reports to the School Manager and has 3 direct reports.

Specific responsibilities for this role include:

• Independent management of research laboratories including but not limited to the coordination of efficient day-to-day management of equipment, infrastructure and services as well as the planning, maintenance, authorisation of access and scheduling of operations.
• Represent the School’s interests in all infrastructure projects, ongoing maintenance and repairs concerning the research laboratories and general spaces. Work closely with Estate Management and contractors to ensure work maintains operations and safety.
• Provide leadership and direction to technical staff to deliver high quality service supporting the school’s research programs, managing ongoing performance and career development of the team.
• Allocation of duties and the day-to-day management of staff and student requests in the laboratories.
• Provide hands-on technical support for the installation, maintenance, operation, training, trouble-shooting and repair of specialised research equipment and infrastructure.
• Liaise with instrument companies, external collaborators and vendors for the provision of support, consumables and equipment.
• Provide financial and strategic recommendations on new methodologies, infrastructure and equipment to the School Executive and researchers to ensure sustainable operation of the research laboratories.
• Manage the School’s relationships with neighbouring schools and centres in shared buildings, ensuring a productive collegial approach to responsibilities for operational effectiveness and safety.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of current and impending changes to relevant WHS legislation pertaining to laboratory practices. Contribute to the review, development, and implementation of changes to the School’s policies and guidelines in accordance with relevant WHS legislation and UNSW policies.
• Lead the implementation of WHS initiatives and manage WHS issues by developing and improving Safe Work Procedures, Risk Management Forms, Protocols and Procedures in consultation with laboratory staff and monitor compliance.
• Provide expert advice and training to students, staff, and visitors on relevant WHS and safety procedures ensuring all personnel comply with UNSW’s Health & Safety Management System.
• Manage all relevant WHS notices, updates, and signage for the School’s laboratories in coordination with the Faculty HS Coordinator and Physics Safety Committee Chair. Participate in the Faculty HSE advisory group and level 2 HSE committee meetings.
• Align with and actively demonstrate the Code of Conduct and Values.
• Ensure hazards and risks psychosocial and physical are identified and controlled for tasks, projects, and activities that pose a health and safety risk within your area of responsibility.

About the successful applicant

To be successful in this role you will have:

• A degree in a Physics or related discipline area and post-graduate qualification or significant experience and knowledge of one or more of the following:

• Cryogenics and dilution fridges
• Ultra-high vacuum systems
• Optics and lasers
• Electronics
• Wet chemistry

• Extensive experience in the technical and safety management of research facilities, including planning, operation and maintenance
• Extensive experience managing, coaching, and developing staff.
• Demonstrated expertise in the operation and maintenance of equipment and infrastructure used in the laboratories.
• Superior organisational skills, with proven ability to establish priorities for self and others.
• High level of analytical and problem-solving skills, with a demonstrated ability to consider and make informed decisions regarding experimentation issues.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a high level of attention to detail. Proven ability to influence senior management and stakeholders as appropriate to ensure successful outcomes.
• An understanding of relevant WHS legislation and other relevant regulatory requirements and capacity to implement and document relevant safe work practices.
• An understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives and values in action, together with relevant policies and guidelines.
• Knowledge of health & safety (psychosocial and physical) responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training.

You should systematically address the selection criteria listed within the position description in your application.

Please apply online - applications will not be accepted if sent to the contact listed.

Contact:
Katie McBean
E: k.mcbean@unsw.edu.au
Applications close: January 11^th, 2026

Find out more about working at UNSW at www.unsw.edu.au

UNSW aspires to be the exemplar Australian university and employer of choice for people from diverse backgrounds. UNSW aims to ensure equality in recruitment, development, retention and promotion of staff and that no-one is disadvantaged on the basis of their gender, cultural background, disability, sexual orientation or identity or Indigenous heritage. We encourage everyone who meets the selection criteria to apply.

UNSW partners with Australia’s leading diversity organisations, networks, and campaigns. Please refer to UNSW’s diversity offerings for further information on our flexible work and leave options, and support for carers (childcare, parent rooms, parental leave).