Description:
Creating a brighter future for life in the Tropics and beyond, through education and research that makes a difference locally, and globally, James Cook University (JCU) is looking to appoint a Research Field Officer within the Cairns Institute, Division of Research.
This position is offered on a Full time, fixed term basis to May 2027 and is based at our Cairns Nguma-bada campus. ACAD Level A the salary is $75,942 - $101,477 + up to 17% employer superannuation contributions.
ABOUT THE DIVISION OF RESEARCH
The Research Division plays a pivotal role in the University by developing and implementing research strategy and policy, identifying and fostering research strength, delivering research services including grants, ethics and commercialisation, managing research infrastructure and promoting and coordinating collaboration with governments, industry, publicly funded research agencies and other universities.
ABOUT FNQ CONNECT
FNQ Connect was created in response to a groundswell of interest and concern from FNQ people with lived experience of disability, their families and communities, together with stakeholders responsible for supporting them. They expressed an urgent need for service reform: current supply of services is outweighed by needs and is well below national standards; inaccuracies in national data conceal these inequities.
WHAT YOU CAN ACCOMPLISH IN THE ROLE
The Research Field Officer plays a crucial role in supporting FNQ Connect’s mission to integrate and strengthen disability and rehabilitation services in Far North Queensland (FNQ). Working closely with the Research Lead, Monitoring and Evaluation and the Health Economist, this position will contribute to the design, implementation, and evaluation of FNQ Connect initiatives through effective data collection, management, and stakeholder engagement. It will provide the opportunity to work in a culturally diverse and collaborative region, fostering meaningful partnerships and supporting systemic change.
In this role you will also:
- Conduct field-based data collection ensuring accuracy and completeness, using tools such as surveys, interviews, focus groups, and observational checklists.
- Enter, manage and secure data in designated systems while maintaining integrity and confidentiality.
- Build trust and strengthen capacity of pilot sites in data collection and monitoring, via one-to-one coaching, group training and workshops.
- Visit pilot sites to monitor activities, document progress, identify successes and challenges and provide recommendations for improvements.
- Communicate findings, insights, and trends to the Monitoring and Evaluation Team to inform decision-making and strategy adjustments.
WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THE ROLE
- Bachelor’s degree in public health, social sciences, or a related field, or equivalent experience in research or project support roles.
- Proven experience in field-based data collection and planning, coordination and problem-solving skills.
- Experience implementing monitoring and evaluation across multiple settings.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to engage effectively and work respectfully with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and other culturally diverse populations.
WHY JCU?
JCU offers a culturally diverse working environment with opportunities for professional and personal growth. Employee wellbeing is at the core of our values, and we support our people through the provision of flexible working conditions and many other benefits including;
- A generous superannuation scheme with up to 17% employer contributions with UniSuper
- 5 weeks of annual recreation leave and 15 days of paid sick/carers leave per year
- Up to 12 months paid parental leave
- Cultural leave and Flexible working options
- Attractive options for salary packaging
- Fitness Passport
- Employee Assistance Program
- Professional development support
- Well-equipped campus facilities including medical, cafes, gym and childcare.
WHAT MATTERS TO US AT JCU?
Our People – Our staff, students, and the communities we serve
Our Education – Knowledge has the power to change lives
Our Place – the Tropics and beyond
Our Research – a catalyst for innovation and knowledge generation
HOW TO APPLY
If you are a passionate academic interested in contributing to this valuable area of our university, please obtain further information and apply via the JCU website by clicking ‘apply for this job’ below.
For more information or a confidential discussion, please contact either:
Ruth Barker (Project Lead) on 0402 216 *** or email ***********@jcu.edu.au
Katrina Bird (Deputy Lead) on 0419 891 *** or via email ************@jcu.edu.au
Applications close 11 April at 11.59pm
James Cook University encourages people from all backgrounds who meet role requirements to apply. We value and celebrate the diversity of our community and are committed to ensuring our learning and working environment is safe and welcoming.