Project Manager - Observatories

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.

• Lead projects that help keep world-class observatories operating safely
• Work across diverse settings, from campus environments to remote observatories
• Part time (0.6FTE) Fixed-Term (12 months) role based in Hobart

About the opportunity

We are seeking a Project Manager, Observatories to support and enhance the University of Tasmania's internationally recognised observatory facilities. These observatories contribute to world-leading research in astrophysics, geodesy, space science and telecommunications, and play an important role in national and international scientific collaborations.

Working closely with technical specialists, researchers and contractors, you will lead infrastructure projects, manage operational improvements, and develop robust safety systems that support the ongoing success of our observatory network. The position requires strong WHS and project leadership, effective contractor and stakeholder management, and the ability to deliver safe, compliant, and operationally ready outcomes that grow the observatories' scientific, commercial, and educational impact. This role offers the opportunity to work across a network of observatory facilities, with regular intrastate and interstate travel to unique and often remote locations that support nationally significant astronomy and space science infrastructure.

What you’ll do:

• Lead and coordinate infrastructure upgrades and site improvement projects across multiple observatory locations.
• Develop and maintain safe systems of work, including risk assessments, procedures and operational controls.
• Manage contractors and suppliers to ensure projects are delivered safely, efficiently and compliantly.
• Support the ongoing operation of complex technical facilities located across Tasmania and interstate.
• Contribute to the growth and long-term sustainability of facilities that support internationally significant scientific research.­

What we’re looking for:

• Experience developing and implementing safe systems of work and WHS procedures, and fostering a strong safety and wellbeing culture
• Demonstrated experience managing infrastructure projects and facilities in a research or technical environment, including procurement and facility lifecycle management.
• Experience managing heavy machinery and plant, including associated WHS, maintenance, and contractor requirements.
• Experience managing budgets, schedules and project resources.
• A current driver's licence and willingness to travel to observatory sites, including remote locations

Salary details

Appointment to this role will be at HEO 7 and will have a total remuneration package of up to $130,943 (pro-rata) comprising base salary within the range of $101,821 to $111,917 (pro-rata) plus 17% superannuation.

How to Apply

• To apply online, please provide your CV and 1-2-page cover letter outlining your motivation for the role and include an overview of how your previous skills & experience aligns to the requirements of the role  
• For further information about this position, please contact Dr Vince Scoleri, Operations Manager Vincent.Scoleri@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 details.

 Position Description - Project Manager - Observatories (504025).pdf

Applications close Sunday, 20 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.