• 2 x 12 month fixed-term contract, based at the Callaghan Campus
• Be part of a dynamic in‑house team
• Interesting, diverse and rewarding work

About Us

At the University of Newcastle, our staff are curious. We think big, see opportunity and are open to ideas and ask why. We share wisdom and partner with colleagues in Australia and around the globe to create an enduring impact. And we're courageous - bold thinkers who have the confidence to take risks and to inspire change. We attract, foster and retain remarkable professional staff who actively contribute to our reputation.

Join a university that stands as a global leader distinguished by a commitment to equity and excellence, with a vision to be a world-leading University for our regions and creating a better future for our regions and the globe.

Look to the future

Working as part of a centralised team of lawyers and other professionals in Legal and Compliance, the Legal Counsel advises the executive, academic and administrative units of the University on a broad range of legal issues, including general commercial, employment, research, intellectual property, information technology, property, construction and administrative law. The Legal Counsel supports management in achieving the University’s strategic objectives through the provision of pragmatic and commercially sensible legal advice, while maintaining independence and objectivity as a legal practitioner.

Be challenged and imagine with us

You will be responsible for the provision of high-quality legal advice, in a highly regulated environment. You will be accountable for the primary carriage of your own files and managing your own clients, seeking guidance from the Senior Legal Counsels, as appropriate.

Your specific duties will include but are not limited to:

• Maintaining strong and functional relationships across the organisation with key stakeholders.
• Providing expert advice on a range of legal issues relevant to the University and its controlled entities, which may include:

1. negotiating and drafting a broad range of commercial and research contracts (eg IT, property and construction, international, intellectual property, etc.);
2. managing disputes on behalf of the University;
3. advising on legislation including University statutes and regulations and corporate governance issues;
4. employment law (discrimination, harassment and other workplace misconduct); and
5. student misconduct and appeals.

How will you inspire us?

As a practicing solicitor, you will have a minimum of three years’ post qualification experience working within a complex and busy environment, preferably with experience in managing commercial contracts (including contracts relating to information technology, intellectual property, construction, property and/or research) or with a background in employment or administrative law. You will have a genuine interest and capacity to work with multiple stakeholders, effectively providing sound legal advice. You have outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, including the capacity to build relationships and work in an inter-disciplinary environment. You work well under pressure, possess the ability to work autonomously and genuinely appreciate being part of a functional and cohesive team.

To be successful we are seeking a proven performer, with a positive attitude. Please demonstrate in your cover letter the following three key points:

1. Demonstrated relevant experience in a practising legal environment, with at least 3 years post‑qualification experience and ideally with in-house experience.
2. Demonstrated ability to interpret, advise upon and resolve complex legal issues.
3. Ability to manage a range of competing priorities, apply initiative and offer pragmatic and innovative solutions.

Applications for this position will only be accepted from those with Australian residency or a valid work permit.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants are encouraged to apply.

What we offer

The remuneration is from $102,667 + 17% super and is commensurate with experience.

For information on our employee benefits (such as flexible working, discounts in private health insurance and gym memberships and salary packaging) please visit here.

Your next steps:

Please visit here for a guide on how to apply for a role.

If viewing this on a job board other than the University's please click ‘Apply’ to reach the University's website, where a copy of the Position Description can be accessed. Please download a copy before commencing your application.

• CV/Resume; including contact details for a minimum of one relevant referee. Your CV/Resume should be a maximum of four pages.
• A Cover Letter; outlining your interest in the role and addressing the key points listed above.

For additional information on the position contact Aimee Allan, Senior Legal Counsel, Ph (02) 4055 3260 or email: aimee.allan@newcastle.edu.au or Joerg Schneider, Senior Legal Counsel, Ph (02) 4921 6353 or email joerg.schneider@newcastle.edu.au

Having Difficulties? Please reach out to us: employment@newcastle.edu.au

Closing date: Sunday 26 February 2023 at 11:59pm AEDT

We are excited to be Looking Ahead with you.