We're Hiring!

Play a key role in the effective administration of scholarship programs ensuring compliance, supporting selection and reporting processes, and helping students access life-changing opportunities. At the same time, you’ll strengthen donor relationships through meaningful engagement and recognition.

• Full-time, continuing position
• Based at the Townsville Bebegu Yumba campus, Douglas
• HEWL 5: $76,633 - $86,920 per annum plus up to 17% employer superannuation contributions, leave loading and other generous employee benefits
• 2.75% pay increase on 31 December 2025

ABOUT THE ROLE

As a Development Support Officer, you will play a vital role in driving the success of scholarship and prize programs by demonstrating their impact through insightful data analysis and compelling storytelling that highlights both donor contributions and student achievements. You will ensure the integrity and fairness of scholarship administration by coordinating selection processes, facilitating committee meetings, and upholding compliance with established criteria.

Your work will also be instrumental in strengthening donor relationships through thoughtful and often complex engagement strategies, personalised communications, and tailored recognition activities that foster long-term support. Additionally, you will support scholarship compliance by interpreting data and contractual obligations, providing informed advice on rules and regulations, identifying gaps, tracking key milestones, and ensuring all required activities are accurately recorded and actioned. You will also design, prepare, and deliver clear and comprehensive reports that translate complex data into meaningful insights for internal and external stakeholders.

QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Working knowledge of academic scholarship programs, selection measures, and  agreements.
• Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive and private information with discretion, ensuring confidentiality and compliance with relevant policies, procedures, and privacy regulations.
• Sound organisational and time management skills with ability to use informed judgement to prioritise and meet competing deadlines.
• Well-developed computer literacy using the Microsoft Office suite and other desktop software including the ability to design, analyse and deliver reports that inform decision-making and demonstrate impact.
• Well-developed written, oral and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with a range of stakeholders across various levels and managing challenging expectations.

ABOUT THE ADVANCEMENT DIRECTORATE

The Advancement Directorate provides leadership and strategic direction within the University to support JCU’s ambition to become a world leader in education and research related to the tropics. The Director is outwardly focused and provides centralized point for the creation and oversight of the JCU Advancement Strategic Plan, which focuses on fundraising and alumni relations.

SHAPE YOUR FUTURE WITH JCU

At JCU we’re not just shaping minds; we’re shaping the future.

As Australia’s only university established to focus on the issues of Northern Australia and the Tropics worldwide, JCU is dedicated to helping the world’s tropical regions to prosper. With our main campuses located in the vibrant and diverse tropics of Northern Queensland, JCU is at the forefront of research and education in some of the world’s most critical areas, including marine biology, environmental science, tropical and rural health, and more.

Find out more about JCU, our Careers and our locations.

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
• 36.25-hour full-time working week
• 5 weeks of annual recreation leave plus leave loading
• 15 days paid sick/carers leave per year
• Up to 6 months paid parental leave or 12 months at half pay
• A range of flexible working options
• Attractive options for salary packaging
• 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.

HOW TO APPLY AND CONTACT DETAILS

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

Click the ‘apply’ button, create an applicant profile and follow the below steps:

1. Complete the application form
2. Upload your current resume
3. Upload a cover letter outlining how your skills and experience will contribute to your success in the role.

Applications close on Sunday 4th January 2026 at 11:55 PM AEST.

Please note that applications will be assessed upon submission. As a result, the closing date is subject to change. Therefore, if you wish to be considered for this role, it is recommended that you submit your online application as soon as possible.

As the role requires an urgent commencement, only candidates who have current Australian work rights will be considered.

For any enquiries about the role, please contact Hannah Cameron via email - hannah.cameron@jcu.edu.au. 

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.

WHAT MATTERS TO US AT JCU

• Our People - Our staff, students, and the communities we serve
• Our Education - Knowledge has the power to change lives
• Our Place – the Tropics and beyond
• Our Research – a catalyst for innovation and knowledge generation

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