Preserve Language. Empower Communities. Shape Cultural Futures.

Are you a passionate linguist committed to supporting First Nations language revitalisation and community-led learning?

Cape York Institute for Policy and Leadership (CYIPL) is seeking an experienced and culturally capable Linguist - Project Coordinator, Language Educator & Workshop Facilitator to lead transformative language programs across Cape York Peninsula.

This is a unique opportunity to work alongside language custodians, Elders and communities to strengthen language transmission, develop culturally grounded learning tools and support the next generation of language educators. 

What's on Offer:

• A meaningful role supporting First Nations language revitalisation and cultural strength
• Salary packaging up to $15,900 tax free
• Additional $2,650 pre-tax for meals, accommodation and entertainment
• Employee Assistance Program - free and confidential support
• Work within a purpose-driven organisation guided by the Pama Futures Agenda
• Opportunity to manage innovative, community-driven language projects across Cape York

About the Role

Based in Cairns (with travel), you will lead the delivery of a major language program that supports documentation, teaching and transmission across multiple First Nations language communities.

In this dynamic and hands-on role, you will:

• Lead project management, reporting and governance for complex language initiatives
• Facilitate co-design workshops with language communities, Elders and experts
• Coordinate language documentation including recording, transcription and corpus development
• Oversee the design of curriculum, learning resources and digital language tools
• Recruit, train and mentor language community-member learner-teachers to deliver language education in a range of settings
• Build strong partnerships with language owners, community organisations and stakeholders across the region
• Monitor program outcomes and contribute to evaluation, reporting and continuous improvement

You will operate with a high degree of autonomy while managing multiple workstreams and collaborating with a broad network of stakeholders.

About You

You are an experienced linguist who is passionate about working alongside language communities to revitalise and strengthen First Nations languages.

You will bring:

• A degree (Honours or higher) in Linguistics or Applied Linguistics, with a focus on Australian First Nations languages
• Demonstrated experience managing complex, multi-stakeholder language projects
• Strong experience designing and facilitating workshops and training in diverse settings
• Expertise in language documentation, curriculum development and linguistic analysis tools
• Experience mentoring and language community building
• Thorough understanding of Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property (ICIP) and community-led approaches
• Strong communication, relationship-building and stakeholder engagement skills
• Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities and travel across remote communities

Requirements:

• Current Blue Card and ability to complete a Police Check

Why Join Us?

At Cape York Institute for Policy and Leadership you'll be part of a values-driven organisation working in partnership with communities to deliver long-term social, cultural and economic reform.

This is a unique opportunity to:

• Support the revitalisation and transmission of First Nations languages
• Work alongside Elders, language custodians and language learners
• Contribute to meaningful, language community-led outcomes across Cape York
• Be part of the Pama Language Centre, supporting multiple language programs across the region

How to Apply

Submit your resume and a short cover letter outlining your experience and interest in the role.

For more information, please contact Xavier Barker, Centre Coordinator, Pama Language Centre on 07 4045 0***

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply.