Senior Officer, Graduate Research

About VU: 

At VU, we aim to be one of the leading impact universities in the world. VU is an impact‑driven university committed to equity, excellence and opportunity. Based in Melbourne’s west and connected globally, we put students first through the VU Block Model®, dual‑sector pathways and strong industry partnerships. We are a values‑led, inclusive workplace where diverse talent is supported to make a real difference.

About the Team:

The Graduate Research team supports Higher Degree by Research (HDR) candidates throughout their research journey, from enrolment and candidature management to examination and completion. Working closely with students, candidates, supervisors, academic leaders, and professional staff, the team delivers expert advice and high-quality administrative support. Committed to a student-centred and service-focused approach, the team ensures compliance with university and regulatory requirements while driving continuous improvement. Through collaboration, innovation, and professional excellence, the team contributes to research success and an outstanding graduate research experience.

About the Role:

The Senior Officer, Graduate Research provides specialist administrative support and expert advice across all stages of the HDR candidate lifecycle. Working closely with students, candidates, supervisors, academic leaders, and professional staff, the position contributes to delivering high-quality services and a positive candidate experience. The role also plays a key part in process improvement, data integrity, and the implementation of initiatives that enhance graduate research operations and outcomes.

Position Key Duties 

• Coordinate and administer graduate research candidature milestone processes, ensuring candidates meet academic, administrative and regulatory requirements throughout the candidature lifecycle
• Monitor candidature progression and provide advice to candidates, supervisors, research institutes and senior stakeholders
• Develop and maintain productive stakeholder relationships across the University to facilitate information sharing and resolve complex candidature matters
• Review and update graduate research webpages and related documentation, ensuring information remains accurate, current and accessible for candidates, supervisors and stakeholders

 Position Details 

• Classification: HEP 6
• Salary: · $91,796 – $99,361 per annum
• Employment Type: Ongoing
• Hours per Week: 36.75
• Location: Footscray Park

For a detailed overview of the role’s duties and responsibilities, please refer to the Position Description

About You:

You are an experienced higher education or administrative professional who thrives in a complex, service-focused environment and is passionate about supporting research students to succeed. You bring strong organisational and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to navigate policies, manage competing priorities, and deliver accurate outcomes. The ideal candidate is proactive, collaborative, and solutions-focused, with a commitment to continuous improvement and service excellence. In return, you will join a supportive team, contribute to meaningful work that impacts research candidates and academics, and play a key role in enhancing the graduate research experience at Victoria University.

Please note: The University is a Child Safe organisation. You will be required to hold a current Employee - Working with Children Check (WWCC) or be willing to obtain one prior to commencing employment.  

Who to Contact? 

For further information relating to the position, please contact: 
Name: Elizabeth Smith
Position Title: Senior Manager, Graduate Research Candidature
Email: Elizabeth.Smith@vu.edu.au

How to Apply 

To submit your application please click on the Apply button.

Applications must be submitted as a single document comprising:

• A cover letter 
• Your curriculum vitae/resume 
• Your responses addressing all selection criteria located in the position description 
• Evidence of applicable qualifications, licences and registration

Applications will close 18 November at 5pm. This advert may close earlier should a suitable candidate be identified. Early applications are strongly encouraged. 

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. This role requires for applicants to have full and permanent working rights in Australia. 

Why Join VU:

VU provides competitive salaries, excellent superannuation, and a variety of benefits. University fosters an environment where staff can excel, achieve their goals, and develop their careers. With a focus on diversity, inclusion, and family-friendly policies, VU supports both professional and personal well-being. For more information, please visit our Careers at VU Webpage 

Our Commitment:

Victoria University is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and socially responsible community. We honour our deep diversity by respecting First Nations perspectives and embedding sustainable approaches to Protecting Country, while championing progressive inclusivity for all—embracing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, culturally and racially marginalised communities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and people of all ages and socio‑economic backgrounds. As a WGEA Employer of Choice for Gender Equality, we strive to create a place where everyone feels they belong, and we ensure a positive, barrier‑free recruitment experience by providing adjustments and accessible formats upon request at  inclusivecareers@vu.edu.au or (03) 9919 5999.