Senior Technical Officer - Mechanical Engineering

Senior Technical Officer - Mechanical Engineering

University of Tasmania

The University of Tasmania acknowledges the Palawa/Pakana and Gadigal/Wangal people as the traditional custodians of the land, sea and waters of the areas upon which we live and work. We recognise their valuable contributions and deep connection to country and pay respect to Elders past and present.

This full-time, fixed-term (5 months) role is based in Hobart and involves leading a specialist mechanical workshop to support innovative research projects. You will work with advanced CNC technology, design, and fabricate custom research equipment.

About the Opportunity

Join the University of Tasmania’s Central Science Laboratory (CSL), a specialist facility that offers advanced analytical and fabrication support for research and industry. In this position, you will lead the Mechanical Workshop, providing expert mechanical engineering support. This includes the design and fabrication of bespoke components, maintenance and modification of research equipment, and collaboration with researchers to develop innovative solutions.

You will operate and program advanced CNC machinery, such as a 5-axis machining centre, CNC lathe, and laser cutter, alongside conventional workshop tools, undertaking complex and varied technical projects. The role also requires close collaboration with the Electronics Workshop on integrated engineering projects. This is an opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research by providing high-level technical expertise in a collaborative and innovation-driven environment.

Key Outcomes

• Liaise with researchers to determine their fabrication needs and provide mechanical engineering support and advice, from initial design through to production.
• Perform maintenance, repairs, and modifications on the mechanical aspects of research equipment located throughout the CSL.
• Operate and maintain the CSL Mechanical Workshop’s machines and equipment.
• Be responsible for the procurement of tools, consumables, and supplies, ensuring adequate stock levels for the mechanical workshop and that all workshop equipment is kept in good working order.
• Provide cost estimates and quotes for work requests and undertake data entry for client charges.
• Be responsible for the Work Health and Safety (WHS) aspects of workshop operations, including risk assessments, workplace inspections, monitoring and maintaining compliance, and reporting through the University’s WHS management system.
• Provide advice to the Operations Team Leader regarding the operations and infrastructure requirements of, and improvements for, the Mechanical Workshop.

Role Specific Skills, Knowledge and Experience

• Significant workshop experience and skills, including manual and CNC machining, basic woodwork, and metal fabrication using TIG, MIG, and oxyacetylene.
• Experience with CAD and CAM software for the design of instruments and apparatus.
• Ability to translate client needs/instructions into 3D designs and computer commands using CAD/CAM/Fusion360 software.
• Demonstrated workshop management skills, encompassing planning (including design and cost estimation) and project administration (coordinating various components/aspects of projects, concurrent project tracking, cost updates, client communication, and record keeping).
• A high level of attention to detail with pride in producing quality workmanship in a cost and time-efficient manner.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with initiative, clear decision-making skills, and the ability to identify priorities and manage competing deadlines.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively (both verbally and in writing) with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Ability to understand and interpret client needs and be innovative in providing practical solutions.
• Experience in workplace safety compliance and handling hazardous substances.

Qualifications and Licences

• Completion of a relevant trade qualification (Fitter/Machinist or similar engineering trade) or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and/or education/training.

Salary Details

Appointment to this role will be at HEO 6, with a base salary range of $92,120 to $99,891 plus 17% superannuation, resulting in a total remuneration package of up to $116,872.

How to Apply

To apply online, please provide your CV and a 1-2 page cover letter outlining your interest in the role, skills, capabilities, and experience.

For further information about this position, please contact Doctor Jennifer Clarke, Operations Team Leader, via email at Jen.Clarke@utas.edu.au.

Please visit https://www.utas.edu.au/jobs/applying for our guide to applying and details on the recruitment process.

For current UTAS staff, in submitting your application, you acknowledge you have/intend to discuss your interest in this vacancy with your current manager and understand they may need to be contacted confidentially by the hiring manager as part of the assessment of your application.

Please refer to the attached Position Description Below for full detail.