Operations Coordinator (Open Space)

Company Description

Every institution values excellence. What matters most is why.
Griffith was created to be a different type of university. You’ll find we’re about leading research, academic excellence, and the transformative power of education. But what sets us apart is why those things matter and how you’ll achieve them.

Why? Griffith brings together exceptional minds like yours from across the globe and from all walks of life. Here, we do incredible work, questioning and challenging, always in the pursuit of excellence.

Job Description

About the opportunity 

The Operations Coordinator – Open Space will support coordinated delivery of Landscape/Open Space operations, with a focus on Northern campuses maintenance coordination and ESP/Hardscape program delivery support across the University. The role will work closely with the Operations Lead – Open Space, internal teams, contractors and campus/project stakeholders to maintain service continuity and support agreed program outcomes. The position will primarily support Northern campuses, with coordination support to Gold Coast as required.

Key responsibilities 

• Coordinate BAU Landscape/Open Space activities across the Northern campuses, including gardens, lawns, sports fields, irrigation, trees, bushland interfaces, campus presentation and reactive works
• Support agreed ESP and Hardscape program delivery across the University through contractor scheduling, site coordination, field verification, work follow-up and progress reporting
• Coordinate landscape contractors, subcontractors and internal team activities to achieve safe, efficient and quality service outcomes
• Assist with scoping, planning and sequencing of landscape, biodiversity, hardscape and open space improvement works under the direction of the Operations Lead – Open Space Infrastructure
• Monitor work quality, campus presentation, defects, risks, WHS matters and contractor performance, escalating issues where required
• Support tree management, weed management, fire trail maintenance, HRB preparation, storm/weather response and other operational programs within the open space portfolio
• Assist with procurement inputs, quotes, work orders, contractor documentation, service request follow-up and budget/work tracking as required
• Use University systems and digital tools to support work coordination, reporting, field records, photos, service requests and asset information updates
• Liaise with Facilities, Minor Projects, Capital Works, Engineering, contractors and other stakeholders to coordinate external area works and minimise operational disruption
• Support consistent service delivery standards across campuses, including coordination support at Gold Coast or other campuses when required
• Work collaboratively with the Operations Lead – Open Space Infrastructure, Open Space Officer, Gold Coast Coordinator and relevant teams to align BAU priorities, ESP/Hardscape delivery, contractor performance and reporting requirements.

About you 

• Practical experience in landscape operations, parks and gardens, horticulture, sports turf, natural area management, civil/hardscape maintenance or similar open space environments
• Strong contractor coordination, field follow-up and service delivery skills
• Ability to balance daily BAU operational priorities with project/program delivery requirements
• Sound judgement in identifying risks, defects, presentation issues, WHS matters and service gaps
• Confidence using, or quickly learning, digital systems for work orders, service requests, photos, reporting and asset information
• Strong communication skills and ability to work with contractors, internal teams, Facilities, project teams and campus stakeholders
• Ability to work across multiple campuses and adapt to changing operational priorities
• A practical, organised and solutions-focused approach to maintaining safe, functional and well-presented campus open spaces.
• Diploma, Advanced Certificate or equivalent experience in horticulture, landscape construction, parks and gardens, sports turf, natural area management or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated experience in coordinating landscape, open space, natural area or similar operational works within a multi-site or complex service environment.
• Sound understanding of WHS requirements, environmental obligations, plant and machinery use, contractor interface and practical site-based problem solving.
• Current Class C driver licence, with the ability to use or quickly learn relevant University systems and mobile/digital tools.

What we can offer

This is a full-time, fixed term opportunity for 6 months primarily based at Griffith University Brisbane South (Nathan). As Griffith is a multi-site university, you may be required to work across other locations.

Griffith University’s sites are located on the lands of the Yugarabul, Yuggera, Jagera, Turrbal, Yugambeh and Kombumerri peoples.

Salary

HEW 6 – Base - $94,966.18 - $101,295.51 + 17% superannuation. Full package range - $111,110.42 - $118,515.75.

Additional Information

Why join Griffith? 
 
As a values-led organisation, at Griffith University, we've worked hard to create a dynamic and strong organisational culture. We offer: 

• Wide range of Learning and Development opportunities 

• Mix of on campus and work from home options available and a supportive work environment 

• Salary packaging options and corporate health discounts 

• Generous leave entitlements including paid parental leave and leave loading 

• Support with future learning opportunities through our educational staff assistance scheme 

• Opportunities for internal mobility 

• Health Safety and Wellbeing initiatives – on campus Gym facilities 

At Griffith, we’re committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all - whoever you are and wherever you’re from. If you require any accommodations, we welcome you to let us know so we can work with you to participate fully in our recruitment experience.

Griffith University values diversity, inclusion and flexibility and we encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and people of all backgrounds to apply. For more information, please visit our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion page. Our University is committed to fostering a safe, respectful and inclusive community for all. In alignment with the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-based Violence (2025), Griffith University includes a declaration as part of the recruitment journey to uphold the values and standards of our community. Griffith University also maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy against all forms of modern slavery. For more information, please refer to Griffith’s Modern Slavery Policy. 

How to apply 

Please submit your application online and ensure it includes the following: 

• A covering letter outlining your suitability for the role; please refer to the qualifications above and the position description.

• Current curriculum vitae/resume including full contact details 

For further specifics about the role, please reach out to Dr Vatsal Naik, Operations Lead - Open Space, on [email protected].

For application and recruitment advice, please reach out to Laura Whitworth, Talent Acquisition Partner, on [email protected]

Closing date: Open until filled. All applications must be submitted online.