Team Leader, Science and Engineering Challenge (SEC)

The Role

Are you passionate about inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers? Do you thrive on delievering and organising impactful events that promote Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education? Do you enjoy presenting to diverse audiences and engaging communities through innovative STEM programs? If so, we have a unique opportunity for you to join our team as a Team Leader for Science and Engineering Challenge (SEC) events.

We are part of the National STEM Outreach Program and have a history of running successful STEM events for high schools and primary schools across the country. You'll work closely with committees all over Australia to organise hands-on, competitive STEM activities that ignite students' passion for science and engineering. This role offers the opportunity to travel extensively across Australia, supporting STEM events in schools and communities nationwide.

You will be:

• Liaising with SEC regional organising committees, in particular the Regional Chair/Local Organiser, to organise and run SEC events.
• Coordinating and distributing relevant documentation required for the events.
• Making accommodation and travel arrangements for the University team for upcoming events.
• Preparing, maintaining and repairing SEC equipment, as required.
• Running various SEC events, in particular ‘Challenge Days’ for Year 9-10 students. This involves setting up at the venue, training/pre-briefing event staff, checking the safety of venue and equipment, overall management of the day, as well as MCing the event.
• Promoting SEC activities through a range of communication channels, including social media, presentations and community engagement activities.
• Representing the program at schools, community and stakeholder events, acting as an engaging science communicator and advocate for STEM education.

You will inspire us with your planning and organisational skills, strong event management experience, excellent presentation and communication skills, and your confidence to present and MC at events.

This Fixed Term position is full time at a HEW 6 Higher Education Level for 12 months and will be based at Callaghan Campus (Awabakal and Worimi land)

How will you inspire us?

You will have:

• Demonstrated experience coordinating and delivering events, with strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
• Excellent presentation, communication and public speaking skills, with the ability to engage and build rapport with diverse audiences.
• Experience promoting activities or programs through social media, marketing or community engagement initiatives.
• The ability to work independently, use initiative and exercise sound judgement in a dynamic environment.
• Experience troubleshooting equipment or operational issues and implementing practical solutions.
• Strong computer literacy, including experience using word processing, database and spreadsheet software.
• Knowledge of and commitment to work health and safety, equity, diversity and inclusion, and promoting a respectful workplace culture

Mandatory Requirements

• Current Working With Children Check, or willingness to obtain one prior to commencement.
• Current Class C Driver's Licence (minimum P2).
• Ability and willingness to travel regularly throughout Australia, including periods away from home.

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 are our values of excellence, equity, engagement and sustainability.

About the Unit

The Science and Engineering Challenge (SEC) provides a pathway of memorable and fun activities for young people during their years at school, through University and into the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) workforce. The SEC runs a range of programs but focuses on running ‘Challenge Days’. These events aim to inspire students in year 9 and 10 to study science and mathematics in years 11 and 12, and to consider a future career in science and engineering. The SEC also involves the community in many of its programs and provides training and resources for teachers.

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:

• The remuneration for this position is Higher Education Worker Level 6 ($97,217 to $107,268) + 17% superannuation and is commensurate with skills and experience. 
• Additional University Holiday days, generous personal, life, and parental leave, annual leave loading, and additional purchased leave scheme.
• Discounts on private health insurance, gym memberships, software, travel and more.
• A range of support and wellbeing programs.

For more information on benefits and conditions, please follow this link.

Your next steps

Important information before you apply:

• If viewing this on a job board other than the University's please click ‘Apply’ (or equivalent) to reach the University's website, where a copy of the Position Description can be accessed. Please download a copy from the Related Documents section before commencing your application.
• Applications for this position will only be accepted from those with Australian residency or a valid work permit.

Your application must include:

1. Your resume.
2. A cover letter outlining your motivation to apply for this opportunity.
3. A statement addressing the Essential Criteria listed below:

Essential Criteria

• High level presentation skills, including performance, presentation and/or public speaking experience, with the ability to engage a diverse range of audiences.
• High level organisational skills and event management experience, with the ability to meet deadlines, prioritise workload, and work with initiative and minimal supervision.
• Demonstrated ability to analyse common equipment problems, develop solutions and implement these solutions
• Computer literacy including the use of word processing, database and spreadsheet software
• Knowledge of, and experience in adhering to workplace policies and procedures in the areas of work health safety, equity, diversity and promoting a respectful workplace culture

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. This document should not exceed 3 pages.

We value diversity and strive to ensure that our recruitment processes are equitable, inclusive, and barrier-free. If you require an alternative pathway to view the Position Description or to submit an application, please reach out to employment@newcastle.edu.au.

We also seek to provide a fair chance to all applicants by providing reasonable adjustments where required during the assessment and interview phases of the recruitment process.

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.

Contact Us

For specific position enquiries, please contact, Michael Cassey, Event Coordinator on (02) 49217319 or via email Michael.Cassey@newcastle.edu.au

Having technical difficulties? Please reach out to us: employment@newcastle.edu.au Please note, we do not accept email applications.

Closing date: Monday, 30 November 2026 at 11.59pm

We are excited to be Looking Ahead with you

We provide opportunities for all people regardless of their background and experience, and this philosophy is reflected across all that we do.

The University of Newcastle is an equal opportunity employer committed to equity, diversity, and social inclusion. Women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are particularly encouraged to apply.  

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