Contracts and Commercial Officer

Reference: 1612279
  
About the Role:  

Curtin University is seeking an experienced contracts professional to join the Contracts and Commercial Team within the Research Office. Reporting to the Contracts and Commercial Team Lead, you will take a senior specialist role in drafting, reviewing and negotiating a broad range of research and commercial agreements, covering research collaborations, industry-funded research, consultancy and services.

You will provide practical, risk-based contractual and commercial advice to researchers, professional staff and University leaders. Working closely with Legal Services, Commercialisation, other Research Office teams and external partners, you will help resolve complex contractual matters and support strategic research outcomes across the University.

You will also support the Team Lead in fostering a collaborative, values-led culture and contribute to team capability through knowledge sharing, training and the development of practical contracting resources and processes.
  
Your responsibilities will include: 

• Provide expert advice, support and guidance on a broad range of research-related contracts and commercial matters to inform effective contractual and commercial risk management and mitigation.
• Draft, review and negotiate research and commercial agreements, including consultancy and services agreements, using professional judgement and diligence.
• Represent Curtin in external contractual and commercial negotiations and discussions, including with partners and funders in relation to strategic contracts and relationships.
• Contribute to a positive team culture by being visible, role modelling and acting in accordance with Curtin’s values and signature behaviours.
• Take a lead role in developing training, guidance and knowledge-sharing resources to support stakeholders in contractual and commercial matters.
• Provide technical guidance to colleagues on complex contractual and commercial matters.

Who we are looking for (Selection Criteria): 

• A relevant qualification in law, commerce or a related discipline, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
• Demonstrated relevant contracting experience, including contract development, review and negotiation.
• Excellent time management and organisational skills, including the ability to meet deadlines, prioritise and coordinate multiple tasks effectively.
• Strong analytical and commercial judgement, with a proven ability to resolve complex contractual and commercial issues and deliver effective business outcomes.
• Demonstrated ability to provide technical guidance and share expertise with colleagues.
• Excellent interpersonal, negotiation and influencing skills, including the ability to navigate sensitive situations constructively, work collaboratively and build strong relationships with diverse stakeholders.

  Desirable:

• Experience in research contracting or research management, or contracting experience in another complex environment.
• An understanding of the tertiary education and research environment.

Role Requirements: 

1. As this is a continuing (permanent) role, you will require permanent work rights in Australia to be considered 
2. Successful applicants are subject to a National Police Clearance, and background, integrity, and reference checks to Curtin’s satisfaction  

Your new Team: – Contracts and Commercial Team

The Contracts and Commercial Team provides research support services to assist in the delivery of Curtin’s research strategy for both researcher-driven and demand-driven research.

The Team works closely with Legal Services, Commercialisation and internal stakeholders to deliver commercial, risk-appropriate contracting frameworks. Forging strong partnerships within the University, industry and other external institutions, the Team negotiates strategic and service agreements to build the University research portfolio.
  
About Curtin University 
  
Curtin University proudly stands among the top one percent of global universities according to the ARWU 2025 rankings. We are an energetic, dedicated team of academics and professionals working together to provide global solutions through quality graduates and innovative research. Curtin is a welcoming space where integrity, respect for one another, courage, excellence, and impact are essential to everyday life. First Nations people, those identifying as LGBTQIA+, parents, carers, people of all ages, abilities and genders, and people of diverse ethnicity, nationality and faith are encouraged to apply. Our aim is to create a workforce that reflects the diversity of the community in which we live. For more information, please visit our Diversity and Inclusion page -  https://staff.curtin.edu.au/discover-curtin/diversity-equity-and-inclusion-at-curtin/  
  
What We Offer You: 

This Continuous G08 level role attracts a remuneration of $122,699 - $130,758 + 17% superannuation. 

Situated on Whadjuk Nyungar Country, our vibrant Bentley campus includes an art gallery, gym, childcare and medical centre, bus station, accessible parking and endless food options including a supermarket. Aside from the vibrant campus life, we offer more than just a job. Curtin offers a wide range of generous benefits, including additional leave, salary packaging, health and wellbeing services and an array of discounts for retail, travel and much more.  
For more reasons to work at Curtin, please visit https://staff.curtin.edu.au/discover-curtin/  

Join Us! 

If this sounds like your next role, please click APPLY NOW ensuring to attach the following documents:  

• Up-to-date Resume 
• Cover Letter outlining your interest and demonstrating how your background meets the position’s selection criteria (noted above) - no more than two pages 

If you have any queries in relation to this opportunity or the application process, please contact our careers team on *************@curtin.edu.au or 08 9266 90***(option 3,1), quoting the reference number. Applications will not be accepted via this email address, and late applications will not be accepted. 
  
Applications close: 9pm (AWST), Sunday, 23 August 2026