We're Hiring!
Manager, Cultural and Special Collections
- 495884
- Townsville
- Professional
- Full time
- Closing on: Oct 8 2026
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.
We are seeking an experienced Manager, Cultural and Special Collections to lead the planning, delivery, promotion and assessment of JCU’s special and cultural collections within Library Services.
- Full-time, continuing opportunity | 36.25 hours per week
- Located at the Townsville Bebegu Yumba campus
- HEWL 8: $111,960 – $128,567per annum plus up to 17% superannuation
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Manager, Cultural and Special Collections provides strategic leadership for the preservation, development and promotion of JCU’s cultural and special collections. The role leads innovative, client-centred collection services that expand digital access, support research and teaching, and connect communities with JCU’s cultural heritage through exhibitions, events and collaborative partnerships.
As part of the Library Services leadership team, the position oversees the special collections digital repository and the development and management of the JCU Art Collection, including funding applications, grants, commissions and legislative compliance. The role builds productive internal and external partnerships and leads a collaborative team committed to increasing the visibility, accessibility and impact of JCU’s collections through innovation and continuous improvement. Follow this link to learn about JCU’s Special Collections.
WHAT YOU CAN BRING TO THE ROLE
You will bring postgraduate qualifications in Library and Information Science, Cultural Heritage, Archives, Museum Studies or a related discipline, together with extensive experience delivering high-quality, client-centred library or cultural heritage services. Your background will include experience in areas such as special collections, research services or academic engagement, as well as expertise in digital technologies, repositories and systems that support teaching, learning and research.
You will have demonstrated leadership experience managing staff, resources and services within a complex environment, supported by proven capability in strategic planning, policy development and service evaluation. Your strong interpersonal, communication and stakeholder engagement skills will enable you to build effective partnerships and lead collaborative service outcomes. You will also demonstrate cultural competency, including experience working with culturally sensitive materials, particularly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander collections.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS
- Eligibility for Associate membership of the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA).
- Travel between JCU campuses may be required from time to time.
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 at our Townsville and Cairns’ campuses
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:
- Complete the application form
- Upload your current resume
- Upload a cover letter outlining your relevant experience in relation to the key requirements of the role and how your skills and experience will ensure your success.
For any enquiries about the role, please contact Bronwyn Mathiesen at bronwyn.mathiesen@jcu.edu.au or 07 4781 4501.
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.
