Workshop Craftsperson

• Be part of a research team shaping the future of sustainable minerals processing
• A highly varied and interesting role supporting cutting-edge research
• The chance to work alongside leading researchers and emerging technologies
• Full time or part time considered

The Australian Research Council (ARC) Centre of Excellence for Enabling Eco-Efficient Beneficiation of Minerals is driving transformational research to support a more sustainable and competitive minerals industry. Funded by the Australia Government through the ARC Centre of Excellence scheme the $35 million Centre is focused on reducing environmental impact, lowering energy and water use, increasing resource recovery, and developing future research leaders for Australia’s green economy.

Be Challenged and Imagine with us

We are seeking a skilled and adaptable Workshop Craftsperson to join our engineering workshop team and help bring innovative research concepts to life.

In this hands-on and varied role, you will work closely with researchers, professors and to fabricate, modify, test and improve specialised research equipment and pilot-scale technologies. No two days will be the same — one day you may be machining components for a new research prototype, the next assisting with experimental setups, equipment modifications or workshop fabrication projects.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys practical problem-solving, working collaboratively with researchers, and contributing to projects at the forefront of emerging technologies. This includes:

Fabricating and assembling specialised research and pilot-scale equipment using welding, machining and fabrication techniques

Working with a range of materials including stainless steel, Perspex, polycarbonate and plastics using workshop machinery and tools

• Translating concepts and technical ideas into practical research equipment and solutions
• Supporting researchers with equipment setup, modifications, repairs and experimental activities
• Maintaining a safe, clean and collaborative workshop environment
• Experience in operating a crane, EWP, and driving a forklift is desirable
• Undertaking training where necessary

This fixed term role is full time (negotiable for part time 4 days per week) for 12 months with potential for extension, at a HEW 6 Higher Education worker Level and is located at Callaghan.

About you

This opportunity will suit someone who:

• Has a trade qualification ideally in fitting and turning and strong workshop fabrication experience

• Has experience with machining, fitting, welding and general workshop operations

• Can work independently from broad concepts or instructions to develop practical solutions

• Is adaptable and enjoys working across varied projects and priorities

• Communicates well and works effectively with researchers, students and technical staff

• Has a strong commitment to workplace health and safety

• Enjoys practical, hands-on problem solving and continuous improvement

About our University

The University of Newcastle stands as a global leader distinguished by a commitment to equity and excellence. Our vision is to be a world-leading University for our regions and creating a better future for our regions and the globe. Underpinned by this vision and our values of excellence, equity, engagement and sustainability, the University of Newcastle’s Looking Ahead Strategic Plan 2030 outlines the University’s commitment to delivering an exceptional student experience and serving our communities. 

For more information click here – Our University. 

What we offer

In addition to working for a university that is breaking boundaries, discovering new ways of thinking and cementing a place as a global leader, we offer a range of benefits to our employees to ensure you balance your commitments, stay healthy and work effectively. 

These include: 

• An FTE equivalent remuneration of $93,929 - $103641 + superannuation and excellent employment conditions in line with University of Newcastle professional staff conditions.
• 35 hour week
• 17% super and salary packaging
• Additional University Holiday days, generous personal leave and parental leave, annual leave loading and additional purchased leave scheme
• Discounts in private health insurance, gym memberships, software, travel and more
• Wellbeing programs

Your next steps 

Please visit here for a guide on how to apply for the role. 

If viewing this on a job board other than the University's please click ‘Apply’ to reach the University's website, where a copy of the Position Description can be accessed. Please download a copy before commencing your application. 

Your application must include: 

• Your resume
• A cover letter outlining your motivation to apply for this opportunity
•  A statement addressing the Essential and Desirable Criteria listed in the job description demonstrating your qualifications and experience with examples.

To ensure that your application receives full consideration, it's important to structure and address the selection criteria outlined in the application process. This helps us better understand your experience and suitability for the role. We appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to reviewing your application.

Please upload your Cover Letter and response to the requested Criteria as one PDF document.

Your Cover Letter and Response to the Essential Criteria should not exceed 4 pages (approximately 2,000 words).

Applications for this position will only be accepted from those with Australian residency or a valid work permit. We are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role. 

For specific position enquiries, please contact Annemarie Fawkner, Centre Chief Operations Officer (via email Annemarie.Fawkner@newcastle.edu.au

 Having Difficulties? Please reach out to us: employment@newcastle.edu.au

Closing date: Sunday 21st June 2026 @11:59 pm

Our assessment process

Typically, candidates that progress beyond the shortlist stage can expect to undertake the following (minimum) assessment activities as part of the recruitment process:

• Interview (an ‘in person’ interview will be conducted as part of the process)
• Referee checks
• Pre-employment checks as appropriate to the role 

Our University is committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for every member of our community. This commitment is central to our values and our efforts to build a diverse workforce where everyone can thrive. 

As part of this, and in alignment with the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence 2025, from 1 January 2026, the University will also consider gender-based violence risk factors as part of our recruitment processes. 

The completion and return of the University’s Gender-based Violence Declaration Form will form part of the pre-employment checks for this position and any offer of employment will be conditional upon review by the University. 

Our adherence to the Code is about more than compliance—it’s about living our values. Together, we can ensure our University remains a place where respect, safety, and inclusion are non-negotiable.

We are excited to be Looking Ahead with you

The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas. We extend that respect to the homelands of our students and staff. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present. We are fully committed to building on our strengths in Indigenous higher education and providing a supportive space for our Indigenous students, staff and communities.

The University of Newcastle is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. We value the unique backgrounds, experiences and perspectives each person brings to our community and strive to create a culture of belonging where everyone can thrive. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, women, people with diverse gender identities and sexualities, people living with disability, and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

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