Science Communicator

• 0.6 FTE Part-time, 2-year Fixed-Term position at HEW Level 6.
• Hawkesbury Campus with flexible working arrangements.
• Salary: $99,159 – $106,284 per annum, plus 17% Super and Leave Loading (Pro-rata).

Translate bushfire and natural hazards research into clear communications for partners, media, communities and public audiences.

The Opportunity
In this position, you will deliver professional communications and engagement services for the externally funded NSW Bushfire and Natural Hazards Research Centre. Working under general direction, you will translate research outcomes into accurate, accessible and audience-appropriate content for University, government, research partner, media, community and public audiences.

You will manage communications content across the Centre’s research portfolio, including planning, writing, editing, proofreading and distributing material across internal and external channels. You will support media and public relations activity, develop story opportunities, liaise with external media and content makers, and maintain relevant media contacts.

You will also manage digital and social media channels, website content and publication workflows, ensuring content is current, accessible, functional and aligned with University requirements. The role will coordinate stakeholder communications, knowledge-transfer materials and event communications, including support for the Centre’s annual symposium and other engagement activities.

What Success Looks Like:

• Research outcomes are translated into clear, accurate and engaging content for non-specialist audiences.
• Media, web, publication and social media channels are planned, maintained and reviewed effectively.
• Stakeholder communications support research partners, government agencies, Indigenous community organisation partners and external audiences.
• Communications activity, media mentions, website updates and social media performance are monitored and reported to inform improvement.
• Event communications are timely, fit for purpose and aligned with the Centre’s priorities.

Please refer to the Position Description for full details.

About You

• A tertiary qualification in science communication, communication, media, science or a related field, with relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
• Demonstrated experience translating scientific or research information into clear, accurate and engaging content for non-specialist audiences.
• Experience developing and delivering communications activities across media liaison, publications, newsletters, web content and social media.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including editing, proofreading and tailoring messages for diverse audiences and channels.
• Experience using digital communication platforms, website content management systems and social media analytics to improve communication outcomes.

Benefits
We invest in the people who make our mission possible. Alongside a rewarding career, we offer a range of benefits designed to support your financial, personal and family wellbeing.

• Financial benefits: Access to staff-only products and offers with selected banking partners, salary sacrifice options for onsite parking, and novated motor vehicle leasing.
• Health and wellbeing support: Free Employee Assistance Program (EAP), complimentary annual flu vaccination, eligibility for Fitness Passport membership, and access to discounted private health cover.
• Onsite childcare: Long day care and early learning services operate at our Campbelltown, Hawkesbury, Parramatta, and Penrith campuses. Staff may be eligible for discounted fees and salary packaging, with places subject to centre capacity.

Application Details

• Position Enquiries: Direct to Associate Professor Rachael Nolan, Associate Professor in Fire and Plant Ecology via [email protected]. Please include the job reference code REF1740R.
• Closing Date: 11:59pm, Thursday 24 September 2026.
• Working Rights: You must provide evidence of full-time working rights in Australia at application.
• How to Apply: Please note that only applications submitted via the University’s online recruitment system will be considered. As part of your online application, you will be asked to respond to screening questions addressing the key qualifications, experiences and skills required for this position.

Belonging at Western
We are committed to substantive equality as outlined in our Equal Opportunity Policy. We actively encourage applications from Indigenous Australians, candidates of all gender identities and expressions, people of all abilities, and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

For Reasonable Adjustments during the application process, please contact [email protected].

About Western
This is your opportunity to be part of something bigger. By joining Western Sydney University, you become a valued member of our community. As our region changes, so too does our university. Western is boldly different, energetic, global, diverse, dynamic, and youthful.

Our mission is to deliver student success, impactful research, and stronger communities. As part of our team, you will have a stake in shaping the future of education, broadening horizons, and changing lives. Making a difference starts at Western.

For the latest please visit our website and LinkedIn.