Laboratory Supervisor (Optics and Radiometry Laboratory)

Job no: 543271

Work type: Full Time

Location: Sydney, NSW

Categories: Research Administration support, Laboratory Technician

Laboratory Supervisor (Optics and Radiometry Laboratory)

• Employment Type: Full - time (35 hours a week)
• Duration: Continuing
• Remuneration : $118k - $128k base (+17% super and a leave loading)
• Work rights: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Candidates must hold full rights to work in Australia to be considered for this position.
• Location: UNSW Campus, Kensington (most days on site required, but one day WFH is optional)

About ORLAB

The UNSW Optics and Radiometry Laboratory (ORLAB) is a testing, calibration and research facility within the School of Optometry and Vision Science. It provides services to clients in industry, government and academia, both in Australia and internationally. ORLAB specialises in light, colour and optical testing, with work covering Australian and international standards. Its testing includes eye and face protection, building products such as pavers and tiles for solar reflectance, and lighting products, including traffic signals and warning signs.

The School of Optometry and Vision Science

The School of Optometry and Vision Science is one of the largest optometry schools in Asia and the only one in New South Wales. For more than 50 years, the School has built a strong record in teaching and research. It is committed to translational research that leads to practical applications and significant improvements in eye health. The School continues to expand and optimise its activities, provide outstanding vision care, and offer the knowledge infrastructure needed to support a changing profession.

The Opportunity

The Laboratory Supervisor coordinates ORLAB’s day-to-day activities, including testing and calibration services, and supervises technical staff and the Customer & Quality Systems Officer. The role provides technical expertise in performing accredited testing and supports compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 and NATA accreditation requirements, as well as quality management, staff and researcher training, and client engagement. The role also contributes to applied research, industry partnerships, and the ongoing development of ORLAB’s technical and research capabilities, while troubleshooting equipment and methods and resolving complex technical and measurement challenges. The Laboratory Supervisor reports to the ORLAB Director.

Key Skills and Experience Required:

• A tertiary qualification in a relevant discipline (e.g., optics, physics, engineering, or a closely related discipline), with significant experience in laboratory management, applied research, or industry collaboration. A postgraduate qualification or PhD in a relevant field would be highly regarded but is not essential.
• Technical expertise in the design, development and troubleshooting of complex optical and laboratory measurement systems, including precision measurement systems.
• Effective leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build a collaborative, high-performing laboratory culture.
• High-level organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
• Experience in supporting senior leadership with strategic planning, performance reporting, and continuous improvement initiatives aligned with academic and commercial objectives.
• Knowledge of laboratory quality systems and accreditation processes, with a willingness to obtain NATA signatory approval across relevant test scopes.
• Excellent documentation and reporting skills, including preparation of technical reports, research outputs, and client deliverables.
• Strong client engagement and service orientation, with the ability to understand and respond to technical and research requirements.

Full details can be found in the Position Description.

UNSW Benefits and Culture: People are at the core of everything we do. We recognise it is the contributions of our staff who make UNSW one of the best universities in Australia and the world. Our benefits include:

• Additional 3 days leave during Christmas holidays
• Career development opportunities
• Up to 50% discount on UNSW courses
• Flexible 17% Superannuation contributions, additional leave-loading payments and salary sacrifice.
• Discounts and entitlements (retail, education, fitness passport)

How to Apply:

Please click on to apply online. Applications should not be sent to the contact listed below. Please provide a resume and a separate cover letter addressing the key skills and experience for the role listed in the Position Description.

Pre-Employment Checks

As part of our recruitment process candidates may be required to undergo pre-employment screening, which may include reference checks, qualification verification, right-to-work verification, and criminal history screening where relevant to the role. Compliance with the necessary combination of these checks is a condition of employment at UNSW.

Applications close: Sunday 22nd November before 11.30pm Sydney time.

UNSW is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. Applications from women, people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, those living with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ+ community; and people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, are encouraged. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.

Position Description

Advertised: 05 Nov 2026 AUS Eastern Daylight Time

Applications close: 22 Nov 2026 AUS Eastern Daylight Time