Manager, Indigenous Communications (Identified Role - Indigenous)

Acknowledgement of Country 

CSIRO acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land, sea and waters, of the area that we live and work on across Australia. We acknowledge their continuing connection to their culture and pay our respects to their Elders past and present. View our vision towards reconciliation. 

Role highlights

• Lead strategic communications for Indigenous science and engagement
• Amplify Indigenous voices, partnerships and impact across CSIRO
• Shape culturally informed campaigns, engagement and reputation

About CSIRO

As Australia's national science agency, CSIRO is solving the greatest challenges through innovative science and technology. Many of our iconic innovations were once considered impossible until someone, just like you, joined us and took on the challenge.

Visit CSIRO.au for more information.

The opportunity 

We are seeking an experienced and culturally grounded communication leader for the role of Communication Manager, Indigenous Science and Engagement. Reporting to the Executive Manager, Community and Industry Engagement, with a dotted reporting line to the Deputy Director, Indigenous Science and Engagement, this role provides specialist leadership to strengthen understanding, visibility and engagement with Indigenous science, Indigenous knowledges and Indigenous engagement across CSIRO and the broader community.

Working closely with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, the IS&E Office, Communication Unit colleagues, People teams and external partners, you will develop and deliver communication, engagement and marketing strategies that build understanding, strengthen relationships and amplify Indigenous voices, achievements and partnerships. Through strategic storytelling, engagement and reputation management, you will help drive positive outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities.

Your high-level duties will include: 

• Lead communication, engagement and marketing strategies that strengthen understanding of Indigenous science and engagement across CSIRO and beyond.
• Provide trusted strategic advice on complex, sensitive and high-profile communication issues and stakeholder environments.
• Oversee culturally informed campaigns, storytelling and engagement activities that build trust, visibility and reputation.
• Lead and develop a small team while working across communities, leaders and partners to deliver IS&E priorities.

Role particulars

Location and office arrangements: Major capital cities, and other locations may be considered. Hybrid working and flexible work options available.

Salary: AU$135,571 to AU$158,863 per annum (pro-rata for part-time), plus 15.4% superannuation.

Tenure and work schedule: Indefinite, full-time.

Reporting to: Executive Manager, Community and Industry Engagement, with a dotted reporting line to the Deputy Director, Indigenous Science and Engagement.

Reference: 103435

As the successful candidate, you will bring:

Essential criteria snapshot

• High level cultural capability grounded in lived experience as an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person, with strong community connection, credibility and cultural authority.
• Demonstrated experience developing and delivering communication, engagement or marketing strategies that support Indigenous priorities, outcomes or community engagement.
• Experience leading communication teams and providing strategic advice in complex, sensitive or high-profile stakeholder environments.
• Strong relationship-building, influencing and communication skills across communities, partners and organisational stakeholders.

For full details about this role, and the complete selection criteria, please review the Position Description.

Not sure if you meet all the criteria?

Under CSIRO policy, the successful candidate must meet all essential criteria. If you are unsure whether your experience is a strong match, we encourage you to contact the person listed in the Position Description for a confidential discussion.

Setting you up for success

We know that everyone works differently. If you need support or adjustments during the recruitment process or in the role itself, we are happy to discuss options such as flexible hours, alternative communication methods, cultural or family obligations, or physical adjustments. Please let us know how we can support your full participation.

Life at CSIRO and flexible work arrangements

We work flexibly at CSIRO, offering a range of options for how, when and where you work. We can discuss flexible work arrangements with you during the recruitment process. CSIRO also offers a range of leave entitlements, benefits and career development opportunities. To find out more, visit Careers at CSIRO.

Our commitment to inclusion, safety and cultural respect

CSIRO is committed to creating respectful, supportive and safe workplaces where people feel valued and able to contribute. We are committed to building safe and inclusive environments for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and to supporting greater participation and leadership across all parts of the organisation.

By fostering inclusion, belonging and cultural safety, not just representation, we strengthen innovation, deepen impact and ensure the solutions we create reflect the communities and Country we work on and with.

Eligibility 

CSIRO considers the filling of this position is intended to constitute a special/equal opportunity/affirmative measure under section 8(1) of the Racial Discrimination Act 1975 (Cth). The position is therefore only open to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people with Australian Citizenship.

The successful applicant will be required to provide evidence to confirm that they are an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person.

The successful candidate will be required to provide contact details of at least one Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Cultural Referee to confirm their ability to work and communicate respectfully with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Appointment to this role is subject to provision of a pre-employment background check and may be subject to other security, medical or character clearance requirements.

Child safety 

CSIRO is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people involved in our activities and programs. View our Child Safe Policy. 

How to apply 

Please apply online and submit a cover letter (maximum 2 pages) and CV that demonstrate your motivation and ability to meet the essential requirements of this role. Internal applicants should apply via Jobs Central.

Applications close 

Tuesday 30 June 2026, 11:00pm AEST