Manager, MERL

Company Description

About Us
Minderoo Foundation takes on tough, persistent issues with the potential to drive massive change. We incubate ideas, advocate for systems change and accelerate impact. We push the limits of what is believed possible.
Minderoo Foundation is proudly Australian, independent, forward thinking and seeks effective, scalable solutions. Through bold, collaborative and selfless action, we seek to dismantle the systems that entrench inequality and advocate for a fairer future. 
Minderoo's Natural Ecosystems Focus Area drives Minderoo's work on natural ecosystems. It is dedicated to restoring and maintaining healthy ocean ecosystems, safeguarded for all generations, focusing on the Indo-Pacific Ocean and through our global influence. 

The 2030 Strategy targets this focus on the protection of biodiversity and habitats within Australia and its neighbouring waters, alongside efforts to accelerate a sustainable blue economy through our global leadership in ocean finance and bolster the partnerships required to make this a reality. 

The Strategy will also seek to foster innovations and harness internal research expertise through OceanOmics. Climate change and sustainable ocean food production are additional programs that are under development to further our protection of oceans and natural ecosystems.

This work will see an increase in ecosystem resilience to human-driven threats, including climate change.

Job Description

About the Opportunity
The Minderoo Exmouth Research Laboratory (MERL) provides scientists with state-of-the-art facilities that enable high quality, high impact marine research, right on the doorstep of the World Heritage listed Ningaloo Reef. 

Due to the nature of laboratory and field research, this role involves non-traditional work hours and regular 24-hour on-call duties (shared among the team) to manage key equipment and delicate research projects.

Based in Exmouth, Western Australia.

Reporting to the Executive Director, Natural Ecosystems. The Manager, MERL is responsible for oversight of all field, laboratory and aquaria operations at the MERL, and coordination of the day-to-day operations. Including leading, inspiring and growing a small team.
The primary focus of the role will include (but not limited to):
• Ensure the safe and effective management of the research facility, associated vessels (2), vehicles (2), and accommodation, maintaining high standards for visiting science projects.
• Develop, implement and refine safety protocols for all operations related to the facility, vessels, vehicles, and accommodation.
• Identify and engage contractors for timely maintenance and repairs, negotiate contracts, and oversee contractor performance to ensure adherence to safety protocols and regulatory requirements.
• Utilise your expertise in electrical or mechanical maintenance to troubleshoot and repair laboratory equipment as needed, although this is not a hands-on technical role.
• Provide mentoring, leadership, and training to MERL staff to ensure competence in undertaking complex tasks in the research laboratory and fieldwork, fostering a constructive and collaborative working environment.
• Collaborate and build effective relationships across Minderoo.

Qualifications

About You
The ideal candidate will have strong analytical and reporting skills, along with robust project management and work scheduling capabilities.
• Proven and successful expertise in electrical or mechanical systems.
• Demonstrable understanding of the complexity and challenges associated with managing a small team living and working in a remote location.
• Bachelor’s or Post-graduate qualifications in an engineering-related field are preferred, but extensive on-site/field experience and team management skills can substitute for formal qualifications.
• Knowledge of boating operations and safety requirements, supported by a Skippers ticket.
• Excellent communication and people management skills, with the ability to adapt to different working styles.

Ability to be permanently located in Exmouth, Western Australia.

If you are passionate about marine research and have the skills to lead and inspire a team in a dynamic and remote environment, we encourage you to apply.

Additional Information

Next Steps

Please attach your resume and a cover letter explaining why you are interested in this opportunity, and highlighting your relevant experience.

Applications close: Friday 16th August 2024

Please note we reserve the right to close applications early should a suitable candidate be identified.

Minderoo Foundation embraces Equal Opportunity and promotes diversity. We actively encourage Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders, people of all backgrounds, ages, sexual orientation, and those with Disability to apply.