Mechanical, Marine Equipment Technician

Join the National Collections and Marine Infrastructure (NCMI) division as a Mechanical Technician, supporting high-seas scientific research.

Acknowledgement of Country

CSIRO acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land, sea and waters, of the area that we live and work on across Australia. We acknowledge their continuing connection to their culture and pay our respects to their Elders past and present. View our vision towards reconciliation

Child safety

CSIRO is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people involved in our activities and programs. View our Child Safe Policy.

The opportunity

Join the National Collections and Marine Infrastructure (NCMI) division as a Mechanical Technician, supporting high-seas scientific research. This hands-on role involves troubleshooting and maintaining diverse marine research equipment on the RV Investigator, a blue-water research vessel operated by the Marine National Facility. You’ll work with established and experimental systems for geological, oceanographic, fisheries, and biological research.
As part of NCMI’s Field Operations team within the Engineering and Technology program, you’ll collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to support innovative projects like developing marine sensors, designing oceanographic tools, and advancing autonomous platforms. This position is ideal for a skilled technician passionate about marine science and technology.

Your duties will include:

• Project Planning and Execution: Participate in project planning, taking responsibility for major tasks and contributing to interpreting and communicating results effectively
• Technical Task Management: Oversee a range of tasks, including those with high technical complexity, to ensure project success.
• Documentation and Training: Use IT systems to document issues, procedures, and work practices, and provide training to other team members on these systems and processes.
• Field and Seagoing Expertise: Apply specialist knowledge during field trips and seagoing voyages to safely capture scientific data for CSIRO. This may include travel to interstate ports and remote voyages that range between 20 to 60 days.
• Time at Sea: Commit to providing up to 85 days of seagoing work over a 12-month period.
• Client Liaison and Satisfaction: Engage with clients to understand their needs and take responsibility for meeting their expectations.
• Technical Problem-Solving: Identify and resolve technical issues promptly and constructively, adapting approaches as needed.
• Effective Communication: Communicate openly, effectively, and respectfully with all colleagues, clients, and suppliers to uphold CSIRO’s reputation and foster collaboration.
• Innovation and Process Improvement: Develop new techniques, processes, or equipment, especially when encountering unforeseen technical challenges, to enhance service delivery and meet client needs.
• Commitment to CSIRO’s Values: Adhere to CSIRO’s Values, Code of Conduct, and Health, Safety, and Environment policies, supporting Diversity initiatives and Zero Harm goals.

Location: Hobart, TasmaniaSalary: AU$93,267 – AU$105,517 per annum, plus up to 15.4% superannuationTenure: Indefinite Reference: 98494

To be considered you will need:

Essential:Under CSIRO policy only those who meet all essential criteria can be appointed.

• Relevant Trade Certification or Experience.  Completion of a mechanical trade certificate or equivalent extensive experience in an applied field engineering role, with a focus on mechanical systems.
• Rigging and Lifting Know How.  Proven experience in safe and compliant lifting, securing, and handling of equipment in both workshop and field settings.
• Computer and Software Proficiency. High level of computer literacy across a range of software, including office productivity tools, communication platforms, drafting or visualization software. Familiarity with digital documentation of tasks and reporting is advantageous.
• Commitment to Safety Compliance.  Demonstrated knowledge and consistent application of safe work practices in both field and workshop environments, with a proactive approach to identifying and managing safety risks.
• Mechanical Tooling and Machinery Expertise.  Strong hands-on skills with mechanical tools, machinery, and relevant equipment, demonstrating confidence and capability in troubleshooting and performing technical tasks effectively.

Desirable

• Adaptability in Field Conditions.  Experience working in remote or maritime environments, or a demonstrated ability to adapt to field conditions, including extended travel and onboard work.
• Problem-Solving and Innovation.  Ability to develop practical solutions to technical challenges, including when working with experimental or novel equipment.
• Inclusive Communication Skills.  Proven ability to work effectively within diverse teams, and to communicate technical concepts clearly and respectfully with colleagues, clients, and project partners.

For full details about this role please review the Position Description

Eligibility

Applications for this position are open to Australian/New Zealand Citizens, Australian Permanent Residents or you must either hold, or be able to obtain, a valid working visa for the duration of the specified term. Appointment to this role is subject to provision of a national police check and may be subject to other security/medical/character requirements.

Flexible working arrangements

We work flexibly at CSIRO, offering a range of options for how, when and where you work.

Diversity and inclusion

We are working hard to recruit people representing the diversity across our society, and ensure that all our people feel supported to do their best work and feel empowered to let their ideas flourish.

About CSIRO

At CSIRO Australia’s national science agency, we solve the greatest challenges through innovative science and technology. We put the safety and wellbeing of our people above all else and earn trust everywhere because we only deal in facts. We collaborate widely and generously and deliver solutions with real impact.
CSIRO is committed to values-based leadership to inspire performance and unlock the potential of our people.
Join us and start creating tomorrow today!

How to apply

Please apply on-line and provide a cover letter and CV that best demonstrate your motivation and ability to meet the requirements of this role.

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