Research Development & Operations Manager

Job details:

• Salary – Level 8: $127,351 to $143,488 per annum + 17% superannuation
• Full time
• Continuing (permanent)
• Location: Kensington – Sydney, Australia

About Us:

UNSW isn’t like other places you’ve worked. Yes, we’re a large organisation with a diverse and talented community; a community doing extraordinary things. But what makes us different isn’t only what we do, it’s how we do it. Together, we are driven to be thoughtful, practical, and purposeful in all we do. If you want a career where you can thrive, be challenged and do meaningful work, you’re in the right place.

The Faculty of Engineering at UNSW is a national and international leader in engineering research and education and is the University’s premier research Faculty. It is the largest Engineering Faculty in Australia, graduating the largest number of engineers and with the largest research expenditure. Through excellence in fundamental and applied research the Faculty aims to be placed in the top 20 internationally by 2025. For more information about the Faculty of Engineering please refer to the Faculty website: https://www.unsw.edu.au/engineering/about-us

Why Your Role Matters:           

UNSW’s Faculty of Engineering is seeking a strategic and results-driven Research Development and Operations Manager to lead and enhance research operations within one of Australia’s premier engineering faculties. In this influential role, you will collaborate closely with the Associate Dean (Research) to elevate the Faculty’s research performance and deliver on its strategic research objectives through insightful analysis and high-quality operational support. You will lead research operations including grant funding applications, internal reporting, and budget management. This is a high-impact role with broad engagement across Schools, central University services, and external partners.

Key responsibilities:

• Serve as the primary point of contact for Faculty research operations
• Lead the design and implementation of the Faculty’s annual research operations plan
• Provide strategic advice and data analysis to deliver the Faculty’s research strategy
• Support effective planning and management of the Faculty’s research budget
• Continuously improve policies, guidelines, and processes that support effective Faculty research operations and enhance researcher capabilities
• Build strong relationships across the Faculty, University, and external stakeholders

Additional details about the specific responsibilities for this position can be found in the position description. This is available via JOBS@UNSW.

About you:

You’re a collaborative and proactive professional with:

• Proven skills and experience in strategic research and operational management, preferably within higher education
• Strong strategic thinking, analytical skills, and project management expertise
• Excellent written and verbal communication, collaboration, and stakeholder engagement capabilities
• Proven ability to interpret, apply and develop policies, guidelines, and procedures aligned with sector best practices
• High level organisational skills with proven ability to deal with multiple tasks, establish priorities and meet deadlines
• Advanced level of digital proficiency in a range of IT systems and applications

Benefits and Culture:

UNSW offer a competitive salary and access to a plethora of UNSW-perks including:​ 

• 17% Superannuation and leave loading​ 
• Flexible working options​ 
• Additional 3 days of leave over the Christmas Period​ 
• Access to lifelong learning and career development ​ 

More information on the great staff benefits and culture can be found here.  

How to apply:

Please click the apply now button and submit your CV, Cover Letter and Responses to the Skills and Experience. You should systematically address the Skills and Experience listed within the position description in your application.

Applicants must have working rights in Australia and be able to be on site in Kensington on a regular basis. Visa sponsorship is not available for this appointment.

Please note applications will not be accepted if sent to the contacts listed below.

Contact:

For role-specific inquiries, please contact Prof Megan Lord (Associate Dean, Research)

E: m.lord@unsw.edu.au

For questions regarding the recruitment process, please contact Eugene Aves (Talent Acquisition Consultant)

E: eugene.aves@unsw.edu.au

Applications close: 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Tuesday 14^th October 2025

UNSW is committed to evolving a culture that embraces equity and supports a diverse and inclusive community where everyone can participate fairly, in a safe and respectful environment. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and encourage applications from people of diverse gender, sexual orientation, cultural and linguistic backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background, people with disability and those with caring and family responsibilities. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.