The Opportunity
The Water Research Laboratory (WRL) at UNSW Sydney has a newly created opportunity for a Research Officer / Senior Research Officer to provide high-level, practical, and efficient research support to the National Coastal Imaging and Fixed Lidar Station Network, that is part of the Coastal Research Infrastructure (CoastRI) initiative under the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS). Embedded within WRL, this role will deliver technical and research assistance to the CoastRI leadership team, contributing expertise in coastal monitoring systems and data management protocols to support the initiative’s overall goals. In addition to assisting with the establishment and maintenance of the CoastRI fixed video camera and Lidar network across Australia, the role will also provide high-level support for the development and national roll-out of CoastSnap, a community-based beach monitoring program.
This role reports to A/Prof Mitchell Harley and Prof. Ian Turner, supporting Prof. Nasser Khalili of the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering. The CoastRI Research Officer / Senior Research Officer will work closely with and under the day-to-day direction of the CoastRI Research Manager and has no direct reports.
- Salary, Level 6/7
- Level 6 - $103,866 to $110,801 per annum + 17% superannuation
- Level 7 - $113,926 to $123,301 per annum + 17% superannuation
- Full time
- Fixed term – January 2026 start until December 2028
- Location: Manly Vale – Sydney, Australia
- On-site role with some travel required
- Holding a valid Australian driver’s licence desirable
About UNSW
UNSW isn’t like other places you’ve worked. Yes, we’re a large organisation with a diverse and talented community; a community doing extraordinary things. But what makes us different isn’t only what we do, it’s how we do it. Together, we are driven to be thoughtful, practical, and purposeful in all we do. If you want a career where you can thrive, be challenged and do meaningful work, you’re in the right place.
The Water Research Laboratory (WRL) at Manly Vale is a world-leading academic research and consulting facility within UNSW that endeavours to tackle the most challenging and pressing water-engineering problems faced by the world today relating to water and the environment. WRL combines cutting-edge laboratories, decades of expertise, and strong industry partnerships to deliver innovative solutions in areas such as coastal engineering, hydrology, groundwater, and environmental systems. For more information on the WRL please go to - https://www.unsw.edu.au/research/wrl
CoastRI is a national initiative designed to transform how Australia monitors and manages its dynamic coastal environments. By integrating advanced technologies like fixed video cameras and Lidar with cross-disciplinary data platforms, CoastRI supports long-term research, climate adaptation, and sustainable coastal planning. It brings together leading NCRIS capabilities and partners to deliver real-time insights and collaborative solutions for coastal resilience. Learn more at https://www.coastri.org.au/
Skills and Experience
Level 6
- A university degree in civil/environmental engineering, computer science or a related discipline, or an equivalent level of knowledge gained through a combination of education, training or experience.
- Strong skills in data management, coding (e.g. Python, Matlab) and image/Lidar data processing.
- Understanding of coastal processes.
- Knowledge of research protocols, experimental design and planning as involved in developing research projects and reporting against milestones.
- Demonstrated superior interpersonal communication skills to initiate and maintain effective stakeholder relationships whilst exercising discretion and confidentiality.
- Excellent time management skills, with a demonstrated ability to respond to changing priorities, manage multiple tasks and meet competing deadlines by using judgement and initiative.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a high level of attention to detail and the ability to liaise effectively with a range of stakeholders.
- Sound influencing and consultation skills and proven ability to interact effectively with diverse stakeholders.
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and productively within a team, but also to take initiative and work independently while managing competing demands.
- Ability and willingness to travel independently throughout Australia for several days at a time
- Hold or ability to obtain an unrestricted Australian drivers license.
- An understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives and values in action, together with relevant policies and guidelines.
- Knowledge of health & safety (psychosocial and physical) responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training.
Level 7, in addition to above
- Extensive experience in environmental (especially coastal) data, analysis techniques and computer coding.
- Extensive experience managing complex environmental data (image and video) and cloud computing skills.
- Strong interpersonal skills with demonstrated ability to direct an engineering team and to liaise with a diverse range of stakeholders.
- Monitor research protocols, provide consultation and resolution to any evolving problems related to design, implementation and analysis.
- Coordinate adherence to UNSW governance pathways to ensure projects are managed within a defined, consistent and proven set of rules for project development.
- Proactively analyse and report on the research performance and other relevant metrics and recommend initiatives to improve research performance.
Additional details about the specific responsibilities for this position can be found in the position description. This is available via JOBS@UNSW.
To Apply:
Please click the apply now button and submit your CV, Cover Letter and Responses to the Skills and Experience. You should systematically address the Skills and Experience listed within the position description in your application.
Applicants must have working rights in Australia and be able to be on site in the WRL, Manly Vale. Visa sponsorship is not available for this appointment.
Please note applications will not be accepted if sent to the contact listed below.
Contact:
For role-specific inquiries, please contact A/Prof Mitchell Harley (Civil & Environmental Engineering)
E: m.harley@unsw.edu.au
For questions regarding the recruitment process, please contact Eugene Aves (Talent Acquisition Consultant)
E: eugene.aves@unsw.edu.au
Applications close: 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Wednesday 19th November 2025
UNSW is committed to evolving a culture that embraces equity and supports a diverse and inclusive community where everyone can participate fairly, in a safe and respectful environment. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and encourage applications from people of diverse gender, sexual orientation, cultural and linguistic backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background, people with disability and those with caring and family responsibilities. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.
