School Executive Officer

• Contribute to the development and implementation of the school’s strategic plan
• Contribute to shaping the future of education and research in the engineering
• Lead a team of dedicated professionals
• Drive positive change and innovation

We are seeking a highly motivated and dynamic individual to join our team as School Executive Officer (SEO). As an SEO, you will play an instrumental role in providing high-level advice and support to the Head of School, contributing to the strategic direction of the school, and leading a team of dedicated professional staff.

Your key responsibilities lie in the areas of

• Leadership and team supervision
• Budget and financial support
• Administrative and operational support
• Strategic Planning and Process Improvement
• Policy Advice
• Stakeholder Engagement

This continuing position is full time at a Higher Education Level (HEW) 8 and will be based at Callaghan Campus (Awabakal and Worimi land).

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 Strategic Plan 2025-2030 outlines the University’s commitment to delivering an exceptional student experience and serving our communities. 

For more information click here – Our University. 

About the Unit

The School of Engineering is a global leader in engineering education, developing world-changing solutions and providing breakthroughs at the boundaries of engineering knowledge for research organisations around the globe. The School of Engineering provides the best experience for students on their educational journey, providing a rich and engaging learning experiences that will transform their understanding of the world. We seek to provide industry and government with impactful and enduring engineering solutions that create positive impact in our daily lives. The School maintains strong partnerships with industry leaders, providing our students with valuable opportunities for internships, work placements, and collaborative projects. These connections ensure that our graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce and make a positive impact.

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 from $116,596- $136,030 p.a. + superannuation and is commensurate with skills and experience
• 17% super and salary packaging
• Additional University Holiday leave 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 a 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 Criteria listed in the position description.

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

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. 

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

For specific position enquiries, please contact Debbie Delbridge, College General Manager on (02) 4921 5242 or via email CESE-GM@newcastle.edu.au

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

Closing date: Sunday 31^st May 2026 at 5.00pm AEST

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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