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.
- Support the propagation, preparation and maintenance of biological materials and plant growth facilities to enable high-quality teaching and research outcomes.
- Provide technical expertise, maintain equipment and facilities, and promote safe, compliant operations while working closely with academic, technical and research staff.
- Part time (0.8), fixed term (1 year) position located in Hobart
About the opportunity The Technical Officer – plant growth facility plays an important role in supporting high-quality teaching and research within Biological Sciences. Working as part of the technical team, the position provides practical and technical support to Biological Sciences plant growth facilities.
The role is responsible for the propagation, maintenance and preparation of biological material, with a particular focus on supporting undergraduate teaching programs while also contributing to research activities. The position undertakes routine facility and equipment maintenance, promotes safe and compliant operations, and provides practical advice and support to academic and technical staff.
The successful applicant will bring relevant horticultural, biological and technical knowledge, practical experience, strong organisational and interpersonal skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders. The role requires initiative, sound judgement and the ability to manage competing priorities with a high degree of day-to-day autonomy, contributing to a safe, professional and effective setting for teaching and research within the plant growth facility.
What you’ll do:
- Effective day-to-day operation of the plant growth facilities to support core teaching and research activities, including plant husbandry, facility maintenance, cleaning, pest management, contractor liaison, and ordering and receipt of goods.
- Plant materials are prepared, propagated and maintained to meet teaching requirements, in consultation with academic staff and through timely and effective plant husbandry practices.
- Safe, compliant and well-maintained glasshouse operations are maintained, including user inductions, workplace inspections, and the development, implementation and review of risk assessments and safe work procedures.
- Glasshouse space, resources and capacity are effectively managed and utilised, in consultation with the Facilities Manager and relevant staff to support teaching and research requirements.
- Effective and professional working relationships are maintained with a diverse range of stakeholders, including academic and professional staff, students, contractors and the broader technical team, ensuring clear communication, responsive support and a positive working environment.
What we’re looking for:
- Experience in a variety of tasks associated with plant husbandry, setting up and monitoring scientific experiments using plants and creating seed stock and using crossing techniques.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently with a minimum of supervision as well as cooperatively in a team environment.
- Ability to positively interact with students, staff, senior manager and stakeholders external to the University.
- Demonstrated experience in Safety, Health and Wellbeing processes and safe systems of work including handling of chemicals.
Salary details
Appointment to this role will be at HEO 4 and will have a total remuneration package of up to $91,488 comprising base salary within the range of $73,814 to $78,195 plus 17% superannuation.
How to Apply
- This vacancy is being advertised internally only in the first instance to current 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.
- To apply online, please provide your CV and 1-2-page cover letter outlining your interest in the role, skills, capabilities and experience. You do not need to separately address the success profile.
- For further information about this position, please contact Sarah Kane, Facilities Manager - Biological Sciences,
[email protected] or 6226 4659
- Please visit https://www.utas.edu.au/jobs/applying for our guide to applying and details on the recruitment process.
- Please refer to the attached Position Description Below for full details.
Position Description - Technical Officer - Glasshouse.pdf.
Applications close Monday, 21 September 2026, 11.55pm
As part of our commitment to a safe and inclusive workplace, employment history and police checks may be conducted as part of the selection process.
To be eligible for this position, you are required to hold Australian or New Zealand Citizenship, permanent residency or a valid visa that enables you to fulfil the requirements of this role.
📌 Technical Officer - Glasshouse (Hobart)
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📍 Hobart