How to apply

• The application process
• Addressing selection criteria
• The selection process
• Notification of appointment

The application process

The required steps for applying for a position at the University are as follows:

Step 1:  Advertisement

Carefully read the advertisement as it will provide you with important information. 

Step 2:  Obtain position information and application form

Obtain the position description (including selection criteria) and application form via the web site or from Human Resources on telephone +61 7 4631 2193, facsimile +61 7 4631 2829, e-mail jobs@usq.edu.au.   Read the information carefully before writing your application.  Contact details for further information on the position may be provided in the advertisement. 

Step 3:  Before submitting your application, complete the appropriate application form

• Application Cover Sheet  (Microsoft Word document)
• Application Cover Sheet (Adobe PDF Version)

Step 4:  Writing your application

Your application must systematically address the selection criteria (ie include details on how you meet each of the selection criteria provided for the position) and quote the appropriate reference number eg 006004.

It is recommended that you treat each selection criteria as equally important, and address each one individually and thoroughly.  Provide examples to support your achievements.

For academic positions where no specific selection criteria are provided, you should address skills listed in the advertisement in conjunction with the skill base and competencies sections of the Academic Position Descriptions.

Step 5:  Attach appropriate documentation

Ensure that you include the following with your application:

• Completed application form.
• Statement addressing your demonstrated capacity to meet each of the selection criteria.
• A curriculum vitae / resumé to support your application.

Your CV / resumé should include the following information:

• contact details - title, full name, address, telephone numbers for both during and after work hours, e-mail address
• educational qualifications relevant to the duties and selection criteria for the position (title of qualification, subjects / majors studied, institution, proportion of qualification completed, trade/technical qualifications)
• relevant work history (most recent jobs should be listed first) including names and addresses of employers, positions held, length of time in each position, major duties, responsibilities and achievements
• membership of relevant professional associations (if applicable)
• relevant extra-curricular activities and achievements (eg relevant voluntary or community work)
• contact details for at least three (3) referees who can comment on your suitability for the position, preferably including your current or most recent supervisor

• In addition, for academic positions: 

• research interests, achievements, projects
• publication summary
• academic distinctions, medals, awards etc.

Step 6:  Sending your application

In order to ensure that your application reaches the selection panel, quote the appropriate reference number (eg 007004), and title of the position at the beginning of the application.

Applications should be emailed to jobs@usq.edu.au by the specified closing date.

Addressing selection criteria 

Selection criteria describe the qualifications, skills, knowledge, abilities and personal qualities required to perform the duties of the position successfully.

Selection criteria for a position vary in importance and can be classified as either essential (mandatory / must have) or desirable (preferable / optional).  The applicant who best meets the selection criteria for the position will be the successful applicant.

The wording of each criterion tells you the ideal level of knowledge and skill needed for the job:

• 'Ability to acquire' means that you have the potential to learn the skill or knowledge

• 'Knowledge', 'demonstrated' or 'proven ability' means that you possess the knowledge or have performed the activity successfully or used the skill in the past.  You should have actual experience.

• 'Thorough', 'detailed', 'good', 'sound' or 'high level' gives an indication that advanced skill, knowledge, and/or ability is required.

Applicants must address the selection criteria in their application. This process enables the selection panel to obtain the relevant information required to shortlist suitable candidates.  Interview questions are based on the selection criteria for the position.

The selection process 

The University is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  Selection to advertised positions is based on merit, which means that the person judged most able to perform the duties of the position will be appointed to the position.  The principle of equity is also applied to the University's recruitment and selection practices, which means that the University will seek to create conditions under which all persons will have an equal opportunity to seek and obtain employment.

Shortlisting usually takes place within four weeks of the closing date for applications.  You will be advised, normally via email if your application is not successful.

Your application will be read by all members of the selection panel and assessed against the selection criteria for the position.  The selection panel will decide which applicants meet the selection criteria sufficiently to be placed on a short list.

Shortlisted applicants will be invited by telephone to attend an interview for the position.  Shortlisted applicants should advise the person arranging the interview of any access or support requirements they need for them to attend the interview (eg accessible parking or adaptive equipment).

Notification of appointment

If successful, you will be telephoned by Human Resources and will receive a formal letter of offer in the mail from the Group Manager, Human Resources and Corporate Services.  Successful applicants should not make any decisions regarding the offer of employment until the written letter of offer is received, read and understood.

You will be advised, normally via email, if you have been interviewed and are unsuccessful.