Emerging Technology Lead

• Full-time continuing position leading proof of concepts and pilot initiatives across AI, automation and digital innovation

• Work across research, teaching and professional portfolios to shape future digital capability   

• Base Salary of $156,277+ 17% superannuation 

Solve by Talent is partnering with the University of Sydney to recruit a Emerging Technology Lead to support the delivery of key Information and Communications Technology initiatives focused on emerging technology, innovation and pilot initiatives that help shape the future of education, research, and innovation. 

Why join the University of Sydney? 

Join one of Australia's leading universities at a point of strong investment in digital innovation, where new technologies are being explored to strengthen teaching, research and professional operations. 

ICT plays a central role in helping the University assess what is next, test what works, and turn promising ideas into practical capability across a large and complex environment. 

In this role, you will help shape how emerging technologies including AI, automation and analytics are evaluated, trialled and applied in ways that are ethical, scalable and aligned to institutional priorities. 

The opportunity 

The Emerging Technology Lead identifies high-value technology opportunities, leads proofs of concept and pilot initiatives, and translates these into supported, sustainable capabilities within institutional constraints. You’ll provide informed advice to help the University make confident decisions about future digital capability, which is critical to the overall strategy of ICT. 

What you'll do 

• Research global technology trends and translate them into practical opportunities for the University

• Lead and coordinate proof of concept and pilot initiatives across areas such as AI, automation and data analytics

• Work closely with academic, research and professional stakeholders to shape fit-for-purpose innovation outcomes

• Provide strategic advice on technology relevance, benefits, risks and adoption pathways

• Contribute to governance, risk and responsible innovation frameworks that support ethical and sustainable use

• Share insights, case studies and lessons learned to build digital innovation capability across the University. 

What we're looking for 

• Experience in digital innovation, technology strategy or transformation in a large or complex environment

• Strong capability in assessing and applying emerging technologies, including areas such as AI, automation or analytics

• A track record of delivering innovation pilots or technology-led initiatives from concept through evaluation

• Excellent stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to work across academic, research and professional communities

• Strong judgement across governance, cybersecurity, privacy and ethical innovation considerations

• Hands-on familiarity with modern technology platforms and tools such as cloud services, automation or AI/ML environments. 

What's in it for you? 

At the University of Sydney, staff are supported with benefits designed to enhance career development, wellbeing and work-life balance, including: 

• Up to 17% superannuation to support your financial future 

• Extremely generous parental leave entitlements 

• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements

• Career development and learning opportunities 

• Health and wellbeing programs including Fitness Passport 

• Access to a vibrant, globally recognised university community 

How to apply 

If you're looking for an opportunity to contribute to meaningful work while building your career in a world-class university environment, we would love to hear from you.

Applications (including a cover letter, CV, and any additional supporting documentation) can be submitted via the Apply button at the top of the page.   

For employees of the University or contingent workers, please login into your Workday  account and navigate to the Career icon on your Dashboard.  Click on USYD Find Jobs and apply. 

Accessibility and inclusion 

The University of Sydney is committed to creating an inclusive recruitment experience for all candidates. If you require adjustments or additional support at any stage of the recruitment process, we encourage you to let us know. 

This may include adjustments to the interview format, additional time, breaks, accessible interview locations, receiving materials in advance, or any other practical support that will help you participate comfortably. 

For a confidential discussion about the role, or if you require reasonable adjustment or any documents in alternate formats, please contact Nick Barwick, nick.barwick@sydney.edu.au .

EEO statement  

At the University of Sydney, our shared values are trust, accountability and excellence  and we strive to be a place where everyone can thrive. We are committed to creating a University community that thrives through diversity and reflects the wider community that we serve. We deliver on this through our commitment to diversity and inclusion , evidenced by our people and culture programs, as well as key strategies to increase participation and support the careers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People , women , people living with a disability , people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds , and those who identify as LGBTIQ+ . We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds.  

We are proud to be recognised as an Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) Gold employer. Find out more about our work on diversity and inclusion . 

Pre-employment checks 

Your employment is conditional upon the completion of all role required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University. 

Also, to meet the University’s obligations under the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Eliminate Gender-Based Violence you will be asked to declare if you have been investigated for, or found to engaged in, sexual harm or gender-based violence in the course of previous employment or in a legal process. 

Sponsorship / work rights for Australia 

You must have unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this employment to be eligible to apply. Visa sponsorship is not available for this appointment. 

© The University of Sydney 

The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment. 

Click to view the Position Description for this role.

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