- Lead operations and quality across TUNRA Bulk Solids’ laboratory and workshop teams
- Drive ISO accreditation, systems improvement and operational performance
- Newcastle-based | University-affiliated organisation

A hands-on leadership opportunity combining people, operational excellence and quality improvement within TUNRA Bulk Solids. About the company The University of Newcastle Research Associates Limited (TUNRA) is a controlled entity of the University of Newcastle, delivering high-quality research and consultancy services to industry and government in Australia and internationally.

TUNRA Bulk Solids (TBS) is a longstanding business unit of TUNRA, providing specialist solutions to industries working with bulk materials across handling and storage applications. Bringing together engineering expertise, laboratory testing and workshop capabilities, the business connects research with practical solutions to industry challenges.

TUNRA is seeking an Operations & Quality Manager to lead the internal operational functions that support the Bulk Solids business, with a strong focus on people leadership, quality systems and continuous improvement.

About the opportunity

Reporting to the General Manager, you will oversee the day-to-day operations of TBS’s laboratory, workshop and support functions, ensuring teams have the resources, systems and guidance to deliver safe, efficient and high-quality outcomes.

Working closely with the Laboratory Manager, Engineering Manager and technical personnel, you will coordinate operational priorities, support workforce planning and lead improvements across processes, systems and quality management. Maintaining ISO accreditation and strengthening the business’s Quality Management System will be central to your role.

This opportunity will suit a practical, approachable leader who enjoys being present with their teams,



understanding how work gets done and implementing improvements that make a meaningful difference.

Key responsibilities include:

- Leading and developing operational teams across laboratory, workshop and support functions
- Maintaining and improving the Quality Management System, including ISO accreditation requirements, audit readiness and compliance records
- Driving systems and process improvements to strengthen efficiency, information management and operational performance
- Overseeing WHS, operational risk and employee health surveillance programs in partnership with external providers
- Coordinating workforce planning, workloads and resource allocation to support project delivery
- Managing operational budgets, expenditure, procurement and inventory requirements
- Ensuring equipment maintenance, calibration and facilities requirements are effectively managed
- Contributing to business planning and building cooperative relationships across TUNRA and its university stakeholders

About you

You are an experienced operations leader with a background in a workshop, laboratory, manufacturing, industrial or technical services environment. You bring a calm, considered approach to people leadership and the confidence to manage competing priorities while keeping safety, quality and performance front of mind.

You will ideally bring

- Demonstrated experience leading multidisciplinary operational teams




- Proven experience maintaining ISO accreditation and managing quality systems
- Strong people leadership skills, including workforce planning, development and day-to-day employee matters
- Experience improving systems, processes and ways of working
- A sound understanding of WHS, compliance and operational risk
- Financial capability, including budget management and resource planning
- Solid communication skills and an approachable, collaborative style

Relevant tertiary qualifications in operations management, business, engineering, science or a related discipline, or equivalent experience, are required.

Why join TUNRA

This is an opportunity to make a visible contribution within a respected, university-affiliated organisation that connects research expertise with industry needs.

You will have genuine autonomy to improve how the Bulk Solids business operates, support experienced teams and strengthen the systems that underpin its ongoing performance.

How to apply To learn more about key responsibilities, company culture and associated benefits of this chance, please contact Olivia Evans today on [02 4927 2025](tel:02 4927 2025) or [email protected] for a confidential discussion. Alternatively, click "Apply" to submit your covering letter and CV.

Applications close Sunday, 1st of November. Interviews will commence immediately, so early applications are encouraged.

At peoplefusion we don’t just accept diversity and inclusion —we celebrate it! We strive to create an environment of equal opportunity regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, lifestyle, age, religion or physical ability, and welcome applications from people from all backgrounds. If you require any assistance with your application please don’t hesitate to contact us.

#SCR-olivia-evans

📌 Operations & Quality Manager (Newcastle)
🏢 Peoplefusion
📍 Newcastle