- Full-time, Continuing
- Located at Melbourne (Bundoora) Campus
- HEO7 Classification Level
- Base salary from $103,171 + 17% superannuation
About the position
We support researchers at La Trobe University by enabling the partnerships and agreements that make high‑quality research possible. Our work spans arrangements from contract research, consulting, research tenders, and grant-funded research collaborations, supporting a diverse range of scenarios from an early‑career researcher’s pilot study through to managing contracts for large scale, multi‑institution research programs.
This senior role would suit someone with experience in research agreements, research grant management, or a closely related environment, who understands the regulatory, commercial, and stakeholder complexities of working within a research organisation.
You will thrive in this role if you are diligent, adaptable, and comfortable working through ambiguity. The work is varied and often complex, requiring careful judgement and a solutions‑focused mindset. You will enjoy problem‑solving, improving processes, and taking initiative to progress matters independently, while working collaboratively within a supportive and knowledgeable team.
If you are a motivated professional who values autonomy, brings a high level of attention to detail, and is committed to enabling excellent research outcomes, this role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution within a dynamic university environment.
Skills and Experience
Our ideal candidate will have:
- Relevant tertiary qualification or equivalent professional experience and expertise.
- Demonstrated experience in contract negotiation and managing research agreements with diverse stakeholders.
- Strong communication, interpersonal and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to work effectively in small teams.
- Excellent organisational, time management and problem‑solving skills, including the ability to manage multiple projects and synthesize complex information to deliver solutions and meet tight deadlines.
- Ability to identify, assess, communicate and manage contractual and commercial risks
- Experience in mentoring or training junior staff members and contributing towards capability uplift within a team
- Familiarity with contract management systems and document management platforms
Benefits
- 17% employer contributed superannuation
- On site childcare facilities
- Flexible work arrangements
- Discounts for staff and their family members to study a range of La Trobe courses
Position description:
Senior Contracts Officer PD.docx
How to apply
Closing date: By 11:55pm on Sunday, 19 April 2026
Position Enquiries: Amanda Smith, Associate Director, Research & Industry Agreements
Email: A.Smith2@latrobe.edu.au
Recruitment Enquiries: Madeleine parker, Talent Acquisition Consultant
Email: m.parker@latrobe.edu.au
Only candidates with Full Working Rights in Australia may apply for this position.
Please submit an online application ONLY and include the following documents:
- An up-to-date resume; and
- Cover Letter outlining how your experience would suit this position
Please scroll down to apply.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Applicants
We welcome and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
La Trobe University is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce. We take an intersectional approach by actively supporting and encouraging people of all backgrounds and abilities to submit an application and aim to ensure that the recruitment and employee experience is as accessible and inclusive as possible. Flexibility in interview format will be offered to shortlisted candidates.
All La Trobe University employees are bound by the Working with Children Act 2005. If you are successful, you will be required to hold a valid Victorian Employee Working with Children Check prior to commencement.
Why La Trobe:
- Develop your career at an innovative, global university where you’ll collaborate with community and industry to create impact.
- Enjoy working on our inspiring and stunning campuses – the perfect hub for industry, students and academics
- Help transform the lives of students, partners and communities now and in the future
La Trobe’s Cultural Qualities:
La Trobe University is committed to upholding the National Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence (GBV Code). This aligns with our mission to create safe and respectful communities. Candidates will be asked during the recruitment process to declare whether they have ever been investigated for, or found to have engaged in, gender-based violence in previous employment and/or in legal proceedings and provide relevant information to assist in determining suitability. Gender-based violence means any form of physical or non-physical violence, harassment, abuse or threats based on gender, that results in, or is likely to result in harm, coercion, control, fear or deprivation liberty or autonomy.
