Australian Department of Industry, Science and Resources – Canberra ACT

The Department of Industry, Science and Resources and our broader portfolio are integral to the Australian Government’s economic agenda. Our purpose is to help the government build a better future for all Australians through enabling a productive, resilient and sustainable economy, enriched by science and technology. We do this by:

- Growing innovative & competitive businesses, industries and regions
- Investing in science and technology
- Strengthening the resources sector.

The APS and the department offer a clear direction and meaningful work. You will be able to create positive impact in people’s lives whilst contributing to improved outcomes for Australia and our people.

If you would like to feel a strong connection to your work and you are accountable, committed and open to change, join us in shaping Australia’s future.

Please see the APSC’s APS Employee Value Proposition for more information on the benefits and value of employment within the APS.

About the Department

The Department of Industry, Science and Resources and our broader portfolio are integral to the Australian Government’s economic agenda. Our purpose is to help the government build a better future for all Australians through enabling a productive, resilient and sustainable economy, enriched by science and technology. We do this by:

- Growing innovative & competitive businesses, industries and regions
- Investing in science and technology
- Strengthening the resources sector.

The APS and the department offer a clear direction and meaningful work. You will be able to create positive impact in people’s lives whilst contributing to improved outcomes for Australia and our people.

If you would like to feel a strong connection to your work and you are accountable, committed and open to change, join us in shaping Australia’s future.

Please see the APSC’s APS Employee Value Proposition for more information on the benefits and value of employment within the APS.

About the team

Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre in Canberra is a division of the Department of Industry, Science and Resources. Questacon is known for creating fun and interactive experiences with science and technology. The Questacon Shop provides an opportunity for our visitors and customers to take their experience home and keep on experimenting!

The opportunity

The Retail Operations Supervisor works under general direction to support the effective operation of the Questacon Shop and online store. The position supervises the Retail Inventory Officer and Retail Administration Officer,



providing operational leadership by coordinating priorities, ensuring the quality and timely delivery of work, and resolving moderately complex operational issues.

The role oversees key retail operations, including supplier administration, purchasing, inventory control, retail systems, and the online product catalogue. The role supports the customer service team and ensures the effective day-to-day operation of the shop, including acting for the Retail Shop Supervisor when required.

Our ideal candidate

Have demonstrated experience leading and supporting team members within a fast-paced retail environment.

- Demonstrate strong organisational and problem-solving skills.
- Manage competing priorities and maintain high standards of accuracy.
- Communicate effectively with employees, suppliers and internal stakeholders.
- Use sound judgement to resolve operational issues within established procedures.
- Experience working with Salesforce and Shopify platforms would be advantageous.

The key duties of the position include:

- Coordinate purchasing processes, supplier administration and routine contract-management activities.
- Maintain effective supplier relationships and provide operational information to support purchasing and commercial decisions.
- Resolve moderately complex issues, review inventory discrepancies and maintain effective controls across stock operations.
- Oversee Shopify administration, product information, website maintenance and the online product catalogue.
- Coordinate online promotions, digital content, search optimisation and the accurate implementation of approved product changes.
- Monitor the work of the Retail Inventory Officer and Retail Admin Officer to ensure inventory, administrative and reporting activities are completed accurately and on time.
- Provide employees with coaching, procedural guidance, feedback and opportunities to build capability.
- Oversee the customer service team and support the day-to-day operation of the shop in the absence of the Retail Shop Supervisor.
- Monitor compliance with relevant retail procedures, operational controls, recordkeeping and WHS requirements.

Eligibility

Prior to commencing the successful applicant will be required to:

- Undergo a ‘Working with Children’ Police Check;




- Obtain or hold a current registration issued under the Working with Vulnerable People (Background Checking) Act 2011.
- To be eligible for employment in the APS and the department, candidates must be Australian Citizens.

Positions require a Baseline security clearance and successful candidates will be required to obtain and maintain a clearance at this level.

Notes

A merit pool may be established and used to fill future vacancies within 18 months from the date the vacancy was first advertised in the Gazette.

This position is a place-based role at the Questacon Centre. This is a full-time position working 37.5 hours per week. The position operates under a non-standard hours arrangement, with rostered working days typically Tuesday to Saturday.

Additional evening, public holiday and other rostered shifts may be required to meet operational requirements.

Getting to know the Department of Industry, Science and Resources (DISR)

The department’s Enterprise Agreement and policies provide for a flexible working environment to assist staff balance their work and home life. Staff and managers work together to balance the operating needs of the department with the needs of the individual. Options may include full time/part time working arrangements, working from home or other arrangements. Our employees say they recommend our department as a valuable place to work. Our workplace is one that encourages and supports all employees to have a sense of belonging and a culture that allows them to bring their authentic selves to work every day. Our reconciliation vision supports a workforce with opportunities and career pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The vision allows them to feel empowered and helps to ensure that the department and broader community can benefit from the knowledge and experience of Australia’s First Peoples. We encourage applications from people of all ages, abilities, nationalities and backgrounds including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, mature age, culturally and linguistically diverse people, people of the LGBTIQA+ community and people with disability. The department wants to give candidates the opportunity to demonstrate their full potential during a recruitment process. We encourage candidates who require any adjustments or support as part of the recruitment process to reach out and discuss them with the job’s contact officer. Candidates are also welcome to contact our Inclusion team at *********@industry.gov.au for a confidential discussion if you identify from any of these diverse backgrounds and would like to discuss how we can support you.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

📌 Retail Operations Supervisor (Canberra)
🏢 Australian Department of Industry, Science and Resources
📍 Canberra