Technical Officer (Anatomy and Pathology)

James Cook University (JCU) is creating a brighter future for life in the Tropics and beyond, through education and research that makes a difference locally and globally.

Are you a technical professional with experience in anatomy, pathology or a related laboratory environment? Join JCU and contribute to high-quality learning and teaching across Human Anatomy, and Veterinary Anatomy and Pathology.

We are seeking two Technical Officers (Anatomy and Pathology) to provide hands-on technical support across our specialised anatomy and pathology teaching environments.

• Laboratory and Technical Services, Education Division
• 1.4 continuing full-time equivalent positions available | Full-time and part-time employment arrangements may be considered
• Based at the Townsville Bebegu Yumba campus, Douglas
• Successful candidate must be based in Townsville or willing to relocate before commencement
• HEWL 5: $78,740 - $89,310 per annum plus up to 17% superannuation, pro-rata
• Supporting Human and Veterinary Anatomy and Pathology

The available employment arrangements may comprise one full-time position (36.25 h per week) and one part-time (14.5 h per week) position of approximately two days per week, or two part-time positions with the available hours distributed between the successful applicants.

ABOUT THE ROLE
As a Technical Officer (Anatomy and Pathology), you will provide hands-on technical support for practical learning and teaching activities across Human Anatomy, and Veterinary Anatomy and Pathology.

Working within established procedures and under appropriate direction, you will prepare and set up equipment, anatomical specimens, teaching materials and consumables for practical classes, intensives and workshops. You will also assist with class pack-down and the safe storage of specimens and cadaveric resources. The role involves assisting with the preparation, preservation, handling and storage of human and/or animal anatomical specimens and related teaching materials. Depending on operational requirements, you may also support activities associated with donated bodies and tissues, including preparation, handling, recordkeeping, storage in accordance with established ethical, regulatory, safety and security procedures.

You will contribute to the day-to-day operation of anatomy and pathology facilities by undertaking routine equipment checks and maintenance, ensuring cleanliness and hygiene, waste management, and assisting with stock control, procurement and asset management.

Safety and compliance are integral to the role. You will follow established Work Health and Safety procedures and protocols, report hazards and incidents, participate in required training, and assist with compliance checks and audits to support safe and effective teaching environments.

WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THE ROLE

You will bring relevant qualifications and practical experience in anatomy teaching, research or clinical laboratories, including preparing anatomical materials, handling human and/or animal specimens, and using and maintaining technical equipment. You will have a sound understanding of Work Health and Safety requirements and safe laboratory practices.

Organised and adaptable, you will be able to manage competing priorities, solve day-to-day problems and work effectively both independently and as part of a team. You will bring strong communication, administrative and digital skills, with the attention to detail needed to maintain accurate records and positive working relationships with staff and students.

SELECTION CRITERIA

In addition to the Key Requirements for Success outlined in the Role Profile, the successful applicant must have:

1. Demonstrated willingness and ability to work respectfully and safely with human and animal cadaveric material, anatomical specimens and tissues in anatomy and pathology environments.
2. Ability and willingness to safely undertake the inherent physical requirements of the position, including manual handling associated with anatomical specimens, equipment and laboratory operations. 
3. Hepatitis B vaccination with demonstrated serology.
4. Demonstrated willingness to acquire QFever vaccination, and to obtain other role-specific vaccinations where required with reasonable notice.
5. Hold and maintain a current C’ Class Queensland driver’s license, First Aid and CPR certification and a Current Working with Children Blue Card.

WHY JCU

JCU offers a dynamic and culturally diverse workplace where your ideas are valued, your professional growth is supported, and your work-life balance is respected. Working under the values of Authenticity, Excellence, Integrity, and Respect, we support and empower our people through the provisions of;

• A generous superannuation scheme with up to 17% employer contributions with UniSuper
• 5 weeks of annual recreation leave plus leave loading
• 15 days paid sick/carers leave per year
• Up to 6 months paid parental leave
• A range of flexible working options
• Staff study assistance and paid study leave
• Ongoing professional development support
• Fitness Passport
• Corporate discount on health insurance
• Free Employee Assistance Program (coaching and counselling)
• Well-equipped modern facilities and contemporary workspaces with access to on-site childcare and medical services on our Townsville campus

HOW TO APPLY

Are you ready to make a difference? Join us at JCU, where your future meets the tropics.

Click the ‘apply’ button to be redirected to the JCU careers page, create an applicant account and follow the steps below:

1. Complete the application form.
2. Upload your current resume.
3. Upload a cover letter outlining your relevant experience in relation to the (1) key requirements for success as outlined in the role profile and (2) the selection criteria listed in this advertisement, outlining how your skills and experience will ensure your success in the role.

For any enquiries about the role, please contact Dr Amanda Norton at Amanda.norton1@jcu.edu.au    

Applications close Sunday, 22 November 2026 at 11:55pm.

ABOUT OUR PROCESS

At JCU, we are committed to employing individuals who meet the requirements of the role and align with our values. All applicants will be contacted and advised of an outcome once the recruitment process is finalised.

Please visit our Information Privacy Policy to understand how your information is collected, stored, accessed and used.

James Cook University encourages people from all backgrounds who meet the role requirements to apply. We value and celebrate the diversity of our community and are committed to providing a safe, inclusive and welcoming learning and working environment.