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 opportunity available for a passionate and experienced Academic to join our team within the College of Arts, Society and Education as a Senior Lecturer/Associate Professor/Professor, Guidance and Counselling, Education. 

• Full-time; continuing
• Academic Level C, D or E -$153,251 - $204,612 per annum plus up to 17% employer superannuation contributions, leave loading and other generous employee benefits
• Based at the Townsville Bebegu Yumba campus, Douglas. 
• Level of appointment and remuneration will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. 

About the College of Arts, Society and Education

The JCU College of Arts, Society and Education (CASE) empowers students to make a difference in their communities and beyond. Offering a wide range of programs in arts and social sciences, education and social work, the College fosters critical thinking, creativity and cultural understanding. With a focus on practical experience and research, JCU prepares graduates for meaningful and impactful careers.

Our teaching areas include Arts and Social Sciences, Social Work and Teaching and Education, with each crafted to provide students with practical experience and academic excellence. These programs prepare graduates to thrive in diverse environments, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to make meaningful contributions to their chosen fields and communities.

About the opportunity 

The Senior Lecturer/Associate Professor/Professor in Guidance and Counselling will have oversight of the Master of Guidance and Counselling program and be responsible for the development of innovative and contemporary course materials and the delivery of teaching in this program.

The appointee will lead liaison and work collaboratively with accrediting and professional bodies and agencies relevant to the Master of Guidance and Counselling program and the field more broadly, and support community engagement with other relevant stakeholders including schools.

The appointee will also conduct research and publish in the field of Guidance and Counselling and supervise Higher Degree Research candidates. In addition to this, the appointee will also support the University’s strategic direction and that of the College, and the Education Academic Group.

Preference will be given to applicants who are able to lead and/or contribute to the development of interdisciplinary research in the areas of Educational Leadership, Career Development and/or Human Services, such that fosters synergies across the suite of programs offered in the College of Arts, Society and Education (CASE); and those who can lead and/or contribute to the research priorities of the College including regional, rural and remote education.

What you can bring to the role 

• Possess a PhD in Guidance and Counselling and be registered as a counsellor with the Australian Counselling Association; and demonstrated successful experience working in the profession of Guidance and Counselling.
• Demonstrated leadership and oversight of professional accreditation processes for Guidance and Counselling programs with the Australian Counselling Association – as appropriate to the level of appointment.
• Demonstrated experience of leading curriculum reform in the field of Guidance and Counselling; demonstrated experience designing and delivering innovative curriculum in the field of Guidance and Counselling in a combination of face-to-face, online, blended and flexible modes that are inclusive and student-centred – as appropriate to the level of appointment.
• A proven track record of research and impact of research in the field of Guidance and Counselling, including peer-reviewed publications and successful grant activity, and supervision of Higher Degree Research candidates to timely completion – as appropriate to career stage.
• Demonstrated experience working collaboratively and ethically in teams on teaching, research and community engagement projects; and demonstrated productive engagement with professional organisations, community agencies and schools.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills; demonstrated ability to work in a collegial and ethical manner; and demonstrated organisational and administrative skills.

Why JCU? 

JCU offers a culturally diverse working environment with opportunities for professional and personal growth. Employee wellbeing is at the core of our values, and we support our people through the provision of flexible working conditions and many other benefits including;

• A generous superannuation scheme with up to 17% employer contributions with UniSuper
• 5 weeks of annual recreation leave and 15 days of paid sick/personal/carers leave per year
• Cultural leave and Flexible working options
• Attractive options for salary packaging
• Fitness Passport
• Employee Assistance Program
• Professional development support
• Well-equipped campus facilities including medical, cafes, gym and childcare.

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

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 and follow the below steps:

1. Complete the application form.
2. Upload your current resume.
3. 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 in the role. 
4. Upload a separate document in response to the selection criteria as found in the duty descriptor. 

Applications close on Sunday 16 November 2025  at 11:55 PM AEST.

For any enquiries about the role, please email headeducation@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.

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 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.