We're Hiring!

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 now have an exciting opportunity for a Media Liaison Officer to join our team in the Chief of Staff Office.

• Short Fixed Term Role to 30 January 2026 - Full Time
• Located at the Townsville Bebegu Yumba campus, Douglas
• HEWL 6: $88,391 - $95,736 per annum plus up to 17% employer superannuation contributions, leave loading and other generous employee benefits
• 2.7% pay increase on 31 December 2025

ABOUT THE ROLE

In this exciting and diverse role, you will be instrumental in enhancing JCU’s public profile by developing compelling media content, coordinating proactive media engagement, and supporting strategic communication initiatives that align with the University’s priorities. You'll collaborate closely with researchers, academics, and key stakeholders to bring their stories to life in ways that resonate with local, national, and global audiences.

Your day-to-day work will include identifying media opportunities, crafting engaging news and social media content, coordinating responses to media enquiries, and building strong relationships with journalists and community partners. You’ll also play a key role in helping to develop media strategies and contribute to maintaining a strong, credible and consistent voice for JCU across various platforms.

QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

To be successful in this role, you’ll need qualifications and experience in journalism, media, or a related field, along with excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills. You’ll have a keen eye for a good story and a demonstrated ability to create engaging content across multiple channels, including social media. Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing deadlines are essential, as is a collaborative approach and a commitment to promoting the University’s mission and values.

Skills in photography, videography, and editing are highly desirable, as is familiarity with the higher education sector and knowledge of JCU’s organisational structure and objectives.

ABOUT THE CHIEF OF STAFF OFFICE

The Chief of Staff Office provides support to the Vice Chancellor and the Executive Group on governance and management issues. As the Vice Chancellor’s principal aide, the Chief of Staff is responsible for the University’s corporate and strategic governance and assurance frameworks and coordinating a broad range of cross portfolio strategic initiatives.

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 to be redirected to the JCU careers page, 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 your relevant experience and how your skills and experience will ensure your success in the role
4. Upload a separate document in response to the key requirements for success specified in the role profile/position description.

Applications close on Sunday 12 October at 11:55 PM AEST.

Please note, as the role requires an urgent commencement, we are seeking applications from candidates who currently hold valid Australian work rights.

For any enquiries about the role, please contact Rohan O'Neil on (07) 4781 4942 or via email – rohan.oneil@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 community, and are committed to ensuring our learning and working environment is safe and welcoming.