Jobs and Careers

• Lead field-based research assessing the impact of Longspined Sea Urchins populations along Tasmania’s East Coast
• Conduct advanced scientific dive surveys to 30 m depth alongside leading IMAS researchers in challenging, dynamic marine environments
• Contribute to high‑impact fisheries science, reports and scientific publications on sustainable resource management
• Full time, Fixed-Term position based in Hobart

About the opportunity

We are seeking a motivated, outcome-driven Scientific Diver to provide research support within the Dive Fisheries Team at the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS), working closely with senior researchers and technical staff to deliver field and laboratory programs, including advanced dive surveys on wave‑exposed rocky shores in Tasmania’s coastal waters to 30 m depth. The role involves supporting research through data collation and preliminary analysis, literature review, and contributions to scientific reporting. The successful candidate will have a background in marine ecology and/or fisheries science, experience with dive assessment protocols, strong technical aptitude, and proficiency in data handling, basic statistical analysis, and scientific writing. Strong leadership, organisational, and problem‑solving skills are essential, along with the ability to work effectively in challenging marine environments and multidisciplinary teams. The primary research focus is the assessment of Longspined Sea Urchin populations, with additional support for research on Abalone and commercial dive fisheries. The position sits within the Wild Fisheries Research Group under the Sustainable Marine Research Collaboration Agreement (SMRCA) with the Tasmanian Government and reports to the Dive Fisheries Team Leader, offering an opportunity to contribute to research supporting ecosystem resilience and sustainable resource management.

What you’ll do:

• Plan, manage, and implement field research programs on invertebrate dive fisheries, including advanced scientific dive surveys and underwater imagery collection while maintaining adherence to WH&S and operational protocols.
•  Manage data quality, basic statistical analysis, and reporting, ensuring accurate, timely, and well-documented research outputs that support evidence-based fisheries management.
• Undertake collation, review and analysis of literature, providing fundamental information to support sustainable fisheries management.
• Assist in the reporting and communication of scientific research outputs, including external and government reports, and website and media communications.
• Foster effective collaboration and communication within IMAS, and with external partners, contributing to the achievement of Sustainable Marine Research Collaboration Agreement (SMRCA) objectives and the University’s broader research mission.

What we’re looking for:

• Skilled and highly experienced scientific diver
• Practical experience and knowledge in fisheries and marine ecological research, with demonstrated ability to undertake advanced dive survey methods.
• Knowledge of rocky reef ecosystems, with particular reference to invertebrate and macroalgae communities.
• Excellent organisational skills and ability to work in a team environment including the demonstrated ability to lead small teams.
•  Demonstrated ability in the use of scientific computer programs (R, word-processing, spreadsheets and databases), simple statistical analyses and GIS operations
• Experience in the collation, review and analysis of scientific and grey literature for the production of public and scientific outputs.

Salary details

Appointment to this role will be at Research Assistant Level 1 and will have a total remuneration package of $97,342 comprising base salary of $83,198 plus 17% superannuation.

How to Apply

• To apply online, please provide your CV and 1-2-page cover letter outlining your interest in the role, skills, capabilities and experience.  You do not need to separately address the success profile.
• For further information about this position, please contact John Keane, Senior Research Fellow - Wild Fisheries, john.keane@utas.edu.au or 6226 8264
• Please visit https://www.utas.edu.au/jobs/applying for our guide to applying and details on the recruitment process.
• For current UTAS staff, in submitting your application, you acknowledge you have/intend to discuss your interest in this vacancy with your current manager and understand they may need to be contacted confidentially by the hiring manager as part of the assessment of your application.
• Please refer to the attached Position Description Below for full details.

 Position-Description - 503078 - Research Assistant - Dive Fisheries.pdf

Applications close Thursday, 7 May 2026, 11.55pm

 The University of Tasmania acknowledges the Palawa/Pakana and Gadigal/Wangal people as the traditional custodians of the land, sea and waters of the areas upon which we live and work. We recognise their valuable contributions and deep connection to country and pay respect to Elders past and present.

As part of our commitment to a safe and inclusive workplace, employment history and police checks may be conducted as part of the selection process.

To be eligible for this position, you are required to hold Australian or New Zealand Citizenship, permanent residency or a valid visa that enables you to fulfil the requirements of this role.