The posting
The successful applicant will be engaged by the Australian Embassy, Vienna as a locally engaged staff member on a 12-month fixed-term non-ongoing contract, with the possibility of permanency thereafter.
The Fair Work Act 2009 is not intended to apply to the employment of Locally Engaged Staff (LES) at Australia’s overseas diplomatic and consular missions. The successful candidate’s terms and conditions of employment will be governed by the laws of Austria.
Please be advised that the Australian Embassy, Vienna does not assist with relocation. Any costs associated with taking up the position would be the responsibility of the successful candidate.
About The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
The role of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is to advance the interests of Australia and Australians internationally. This involves strengthening Australia’s security, enhancing Australia’s prosperity, delivering an effective and high quality overseas aid program and helping Australian travellers and Australians overseas.
The department provides foreign, trade and development policy advice to the Australian Government. DFAT also works with other Australian Government agencies to drive coordination of Australia’s pursuit of global, regional and bilateral interests.
About the position
Under direction of the Corporate Services Manager, the Property Officer (Facilities and Maintenance) is responsible for supporting the management, maintenance and operational readiness of the Australian Embassy's property portfolio, including the Chancery, Official Residence and staff residences.
The position combines hands-on technical maintenance responsibilities with facilities coordination and contractor management functions to ensure Embassy properties remain safe, compliant and fit for purpose. The role undertakes fault diagnosis, inspections, preventative maintenance and minor repair works; coordinates specialist contractors and service providers; maintains asset and maintenance records; and provides maintenance/technical advice on property-related issues.
Depending on your position, you may be required to undergo additional security and background checks and undertake specific Child Protection e-learning.
Key responsibilities of the position include but are not limited to:
- Conduct routine inspections of mechanical, electrical and building systems in accordance with established procedures and inspection schedules to identify emerging maintenance issues before failures occur.
- Undertake general maintenance, basic troubleshooting and first-level repairs to resolve routine issues and escalate complex issues as required.
- Liaise with landlords, service providers, tradespeople and contractors to coordinate maintenance and repair activities.
- Maintain technical documentation, operating manuals, maintenance histories and service records and other property documentation, ensuring information is accurate and up to date.
- Conduct routine property inspections and condition assessments, support residential property handovers, and identify and recommend maintenance, replacement or refurbishment requirements.
- Maintain inventories and asset registers and assist with regular stocktakes and verification of asset information.
- Contribute technical advice to property planning, budgeting and procurement activities.
- Support emergency response and after-hours call-outs relating to Embassy properties as required.
Required Qualifications/Experience
- Demonstrated experience in building maintenance, facilities management, technical services or a related trade environment.
- Demonstrated ability to diagnose maintenance and facilities issues, identify root causes and implement practical solutions.
- Demonstrated experience undertaking general maintenance and repair work using a broad range of hand and power tools.
- Experience coordinating contractors, suppliers and service providers and monitoring work outcomes.
- Strong organisational skills and ability to prioritise competing maintenance requirements.
- Sound knowledge of workplace safety practices and safe work procedures.
- Well-developed interpersonal and customer service skills.
- Good computer skills, including Microsoft Office applications and use of digital maintenance or work order systems/
- Good written and verbal communication skills in English and German.
- Current Austrian driver's licence.
- Availability to work outside regular hours (emergency callouts) as required.
Desirable
- Qualification or apprenticeship in electrical, mechanical, building services, carpentry or a related trade.
- Experience maintaining commercial, diplomatic, hospitality or institutional properties.
- Knowledge of Austrian building systems, safety requirements and contractor networks.
Selection Criteria
Please ensure you provide a response to each of the listed selection criteria below. In your response, you must include relevant high-level examples from your experience that support your claims against the role.
The word limit is strictly 250 words per response to each selection criteria. The panel may not assess incomplete applications or responses which exceed the word limit.
A. Experience working in an administration or property role, liaising with a range of stakeholders and suppliers, ensuring standards of delivery are met and reflect value for money.
B. Initiative and ability to exercise sound judgement when providing services and ensure sensitive information is handled with discretion.
C. Strong organisational skills, attention to detail and the ability to work under pressure and manage priorities with limited supervision.
D. Excellent written and oral communication in English and the ability to work effectively across all organisational levels and liaise with internal and external stakeholders.
E. A strong team player who is prepared to take on routine administrative tasks with proficiency using Microsoft Office programs such as Excel, Word and Outlook.
The Human Resources Section based in the Australian High Commission, London is responsible for managing all recruitment processes across the European region. To apply, please use the 'Apply' button below. Please direct any other queries to [email protected].
We are committed to providing an inclusive and diverse workplace where all employees are valued. We appreciate the experiences, skills and perspectives of all individuals. We actively encourage applications from people from diverse backgrounds who share our values.
