Manager, Cultural and Special Collections

  • James Cook University
  • Australia, QLD
  • Jun 24, 2026
Full-time
  •  

    Job Description:

    James Cook University (JCU) is creating a brighter future for life in the Tropics and beyond, through education and research that makes a difference locally and globally.

    We are seeking an experienced and visionary Manager, Cultural and Special Collections to lead the stewardship, development, and promotion of JCU’s culturally significant collections within Library Services.

    • Full time opportunity | 36.25 hours per week
    • Located at the Townsville Bebegu Yumba campus
    • HEWL 8: $111,960 – $128,567 plus up to 17% employer superannuation contributions, leave loading and other generous employee benefits.

    ABOUT THE ROLE

    The Manager, Cultural and Special Collections provides strategic leadership in the preservation, development, and visibility of JCU’s culturally significant collections. The role supports research, teaching, and community engagement through specialist consultation, the delivery of high-quality services, and the curation of exhibitions and events that promote awareness, access, and stewardship of the University’s cultural heritage, including materials from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

    As a key member of the Library leadership team, the position drives innovation in collection management, research engagement, digital access, and public programming, while fostering strong, collaborative partnerships across the University and with external stakeholders.

    WHAT YOU CAN BRING TO THE ROLE

    • Postgraduate qualifications in Library and Information Science, Cultural Heritage, Archives, Museum Studies, or a related discipline
    • Extensive experience delivering client-centred library or cultural heritage services, particularly information learning and literacy, academic liaison, specialist collections and research services in line with JCU’s directions and pedagogy.
    • Demonstrated leadership experience, including managing staff, resources, and services in a complex environment
    • Strong interpersonal, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to build effective partnerships
    • Proven experience in strategic planning, policy development, and service evaluation
    • Knowledge of and demonstrated experience integrating information and communication technologies, including online web-based services in teaching/learning and research environments, and library services and operations.
    • Demonstrated cultural competency, including experience working with culturally sensitive materials, particularly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander collections

    Position Requirements

    • Eligibility for Associate membership of the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA).
    • Travel between JCU campuses may be required from time to time.

    HOW TO APPLY

    Are you ready to make a difference? Join us at JCU, where your future meets the tropics.

    Click the ‘apply’ button to be redirected to the JCU careers page, create an applicant account and follow the steps below:

    1. Complete the application form

    2. Upload your current resume

    3. Upload a cover letter outlining your relevant experience in relation to the key requirements of the role and how your skills and experience will ensure your success

    Applications close Monday, 20th July at 11.55pm.

    ABOUT OUR PROCESS

    At JCU, we are committed to employing individuals who meet the requirements of the role and align with our values. All applicants will be contacted and advised of an outcome once the recruitment process is finalised.

    Please visit our Information Privacy Policy to understand how your information is collected, stored, accessed and used.



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