• 0.8 FTE

Help transform Australia's food systems.

Sustain exists to champion the transition to healthy, equitable, resilient and sustainable food systems. We empower people, governments and organisations with the knowledge, tools and connections they need to become agents of food system transformation.

We're looking for a highly organised and collaborative Research and Projects Officer to join our small, passionate team. This is an exciting opportunity to work on projects that support local governments, community organisations and other partners to strengthen food security and sustainable food systems across Australia.

About the role

Reporting to the Consulting and Engagement Manager, you'll coordinate and deliver consulting projects from start to finish. You'll manage multiple projects simultaneously, conduct research and analysis, prepare high-quality reports, engage with stakeholders and ensure projects are delivered on time and to a high standard.

This role would suit someone who enjoys combining project management with research, writing and relationship building.

What you'll be doing

Your work will include:

• Coordinating consulting and capacity-building projects from planning through to completion
• Managing project plans, timelines, budgets and deliverables
• Building strong relationships with clients and stakeholders
• Undertaking desktop research, literature reviews and environmental scans
• Analysing qualitative and quantitative data
• Writing reports, discussion papers, strategic plans and policy documents
• Coordinating meetings, workshops and stakeholder engagement activities
• Supporting project evaluation, grant reporting and continuous improvement
• Contributing to the Australian Food Network and Sustain's broader strategic objectives

Please see the attached PD for a full list of responsibilities.

About you

We're looking for someone with:

• Demonstrated experience in project coordination, project management or consulting delivery
• Strong research, analysis and report-writing skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Experience collecting and analysing qualitative and quantitative data
• Excellent organisational and time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work methodically
• Ability to build productive relationships with clients, community members and stakeholders
• Understanding of food systems, food security, public health, sustainability, community development or related fields
• Ability to work independently while contributing positively within a small team
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace and project management software
• Current Working with Children Check or willingness to obtain one

We'd love it if you also have:

• Knowledge of food policy, food security, public health or systems change approaches
• Experience undertaking community engagement and stakeholder consultation processes
• Experience working with diverse communities, including CALD communities and/or young people
• Experience working with local government and/or community sectors
• Experience developing strategic plans, policy documents or community plans
• Experience using Airtable, CRM systems or project management platforms
• Qualification in public health, community development, sustainability, food systems, social sciences, planning or a related field

Why work with Sustain?

We're a small, values-driven organisation where you'll have the opportunity to contribute to meaningful systems change while working alongside a supportive and passionate team.

We offer:

• Part-time position (0.8 FTE)
• 12-month contract with the possibility of extension (subject to funding and performance)
• $46 per hour plus superannuation
• Salary packaging of up to $15,900 per year
• Hybrid work arrangements, with a mix of working from home and our office in Preston, Melbourne
• Professional development opportunities
• Flexible working arrangements where possible

You'll need to be available to attend in-person meetings and activities in Melbourne.

If you're passionate about creating healthier, more sustainable and equitable food systems and enjoy delivering high-quality projects with real-world impact, we'd love to hear from you.

How to apply

To apply, please click "Apply Now" and submit the following:

• Your CV
• 1 page cover letter outlining why you're interested in the role
• A document addressing how your experience aligns with each of the key selection criteria

For enquiries, please contact Mia Cox: [email protected] using the subject line: Research and Projects Officer enquiry via EthicalJobs

A position description is attached.