Chief Technical Officer - PESS

Applications are invited for the following position:

Title of Post: Chief Technical Officer - PESS

JOB SYNOPSIS

The Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences is seeking to appoint an experienced and dynamic Chief Technical Officer (CTO) on a full-time basis to lead and manage the Department’s technical operations in support of its teaching, research, and performance activities. This senior role is central to ensuring the safe functioning of all laboratory and technical facilities. The CTO will provide leadership and oversight of the Department’s technical services, managing and developing a team of technical staff to deliver high-quality support across a broad range of academic, research, and engagement activities. Key responsibilities include the management of technical infrastructure, coordination of laboratory and field-based technical support, implementation and monitoring of health and safety procedures, and collaboration with academic, research, and professional services staff to support the Department’s evolving needs and priorities. The successful candidate will possess substantial experience in managing technical operations within a sport sciences or related environment, together with a strong understanding of laboratory and performance testing facilities, equipment maintenance, regulatory compliance, and health and safety standards. Excellent organisational, communication, and team leadership skills are essential.

Faculty of Education & Health Sciences

Department of Physical Education & Sport Science

Contract Type: Permanent

Salary Scale: €68,138 - €82,623 p.a.

University of Limerick is a research-led, energetic and enterprising institution with a proud record of innovation and excellence in education and scholarships. We value creativity, curiosity and excellence in our inclusive community which is committed to social good. Our motto Eagna chun Gnímh translates as Wisdom for Action reflecting our mission to contribute to the discovery of new knowledge for a better world.

Informal enquiries regarding the post may be directed to:

Dr John L Perry

Head

Department of Physical Education & Sport Science

University of Limerick

Email: [email protected]

The closing date for receipt of applications is Friday, 13th November 2026

Applications must be completed online before 12 noon, Irish Standard Time on the closing date.

Please note your application must include:

A letter of introduction and a current CV indicating how you meet the criteria outlined in the Job description.

A completed online application form.

Are you currently legally entitled to work and reside in Ireland?

If you are not currently an EEA Citizen and have stated that you are currently legally entitled to work and reside in Ireland, you MUST upload a copy of your current Visa and Work permit in the attachments section application form. Unfortunately, if the attachment, as noted, is required and not provided your application cannot be processed.

Please note your current work authorisation status must allow you to fulfil the terms of the contract on offer.

Please email [email protected] if you experience any difficulties

Applications are welcome from suitably qualified candidates.

Further information for applicants and application material is available online from: University of Limerick Vacancies

We are committed to upholding the principles of fairness, equality, and transparency in pay, in line with the EU Pay Transparency Directive (Directive (EU) 2023/970)

Many thanks for your interest in this role.

TITLE OF POST: Chief Technical Officer - PESS LOCATION: University of Limerick REPORTS TO: Head of Department CONTRACT TYPE: Permanent SALARY SCALE: €68,138 - €82,623 p.a.

JOB DESCRIPTION JOB SYNOPSIS:

The Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences is seeking to appoint an experienced and dynamic Chief Technical Officer (CTO) on a full- time basis to lead and manage the Department’s technical operations in support of its teaching, research, and performance activities. This senior role is central to ensuring the safe functioning of all laboratory and technical facilities. The CTO will provide leadership and oversight of the Department’s technical services, managing and developing a team of technical staff to deliver high-quality support across a broad range of academic, research, and engagement activities. Key responsibilities include the management of technical infrastructure, coordination of laboratory and field-based technical support, implementation and monitoring of health and safety procedures, and collaboration with academic, research, and professional services staff to support the Department’s evolving needs and priorities. The successful candidate will possess substantial experience in managing technical operations within a sport sciences or related environment, together with a strong understanding of laboratory and performance testing facilities, equipment maintenance, regulatory compliance, and health and safety standards. Excellent organisational, communication, and team leadership skills are essential.

QUALIFICATIONS:

& Master’s degree (level 9NFQ) or equivalent in Physical Education, Sport and Exercise Sciences, or a related field. & At least 5 years’ experience of laboratory-based support in teaching and research of sport & exercise sciences or a related field.

OVERALL PURPOSE OF JOB:

To lead and manage the delivery of all technical activities, facilities management, procurement and Health and Safety in teaching, research and applied practices in the Physical Education and Sport and Exercise Sciences Department. The role includes the management of the technical team, oversight of specialist equipment, management of purchasing and procurement, timetabling of laboratories, management of health and safety standards for the entire department, including all research and teaching environments.

DESCRIPTION:

Support Teaching, Learning and Research

• Collaborate with programme teams to support delivery of practical and laboratory-based teaching (e.g. biomechanics, physiology, psychology, performance analysis, physical education) • Ensure effective integration of applied sport technologies in teaching and assessment. • Provide training for staff and students in the use of specialist equipment and software. • Support research activities, including data collection, analysis, and equipment setup. • Support departmental events such as workshops, conferences, open days, and outreach programmes. • Support final-year projects and postgraduate research requiring specialist equipment.

Administrative and Technical Development

• Drive innovation in sport science technologies and digital systems within the department. • Support development of systems for athlete monitoring, data management, and research workflows. • Work with central IT services to ensure robust infrastructure for labs, teaching spaces, and performance environments. • Contribute to project planning, funding proposals, and equipment upgrades.

Management of Technical Staff

• Supervise technical staff and ensure adequate support for teaching, labs, and research. • Manage staff scheduling, workload allocation, and performance. • Support recruitment, training, and professional development of technical staff. • Ensure compliance with institutional policies and training requirements. • Foster collaboration with technical teams across the University and external institutions. • Equipment and Procurement Management. • Manage purchasing and maintenance of departmental equipment (e.g. force plates, metabolic carts, motion capture systems) • Lead and oversee the tendering and procurement process for capital equipment and services, ensuring compliance with university policies and national/EU public procurement guidelines. • Prepare technical specifications and documentation for tender submissions in collaboration with academic and administrative staff. • Participate in the evaluation of tenders, including technical assessment of bids, supplier suitability, and value-for-money analysis. • Manage departmental budgets related to technical resources and ensure transparent, accountable use of funds. • Liaise with suppliers, negotiate contracts, and coordinate equipment demonstrations and site visits. • Maintain accurate records of procurement activities, equipment inventories, servicing schedules, and expenditure.

Facilities Management

• Oversee department laboratories, fitness testing suites, performance analysis spaces, teaching facilities and office spaces. • Ensure all facilities are maintained to a high standard and optimally utilised. • Manage facility set up for teaching, research, and athlete testing. • Work with Building & Estates and external contractors on facility development and modifications.

Health and Safety Management

• Develop and implement health and safety policies for laboratories, gyms, and field-based activities. • Conduct risk assessments for practical sessions and research activities. • Ensure safe use of all Physical Education and Sport Sciences equipment. • Carry out regular safety audits and ensure compliance with university regulations. • Liaise with institutional safety officers to maintain up-to-date safety documentation.

Essential Criteria:

• Master’s degree (level 9NFQ) or equivalent in Physical Education, Sport and Exercise Sciences, or a related field. • At least 5 years’ experience of laboratory-based support in teaching and research of sport & exercise sciences or a related field. • Excellent knowledge of equipment and technologies relating to Physical Education, Sport and Exercise Sciences, or a related field. • Excellent project management and organisational skills. • Excellent interpersonal & communication skills & evidence of teamwork. • A proactive approach to problem-solving and resource management. • Enjoys and is motivated to work with and support other department members to provide solutions in their areas of responsibility. • Willingness to learn about other roles in the Department and to step into new duties where circumstances require. • A flexible approach to skills acquisition and personal development and ability to develop own skills independently.

Desirable Criteria:

• Experience working with elite or developing athletes. • Experience of biomechanics, physiology, psychology and performance analysis systems. • Experience in applied field-based sports performance testing, motion capture, wearable technology. • Experience of purchasing and budget management. • Experience in research support and publication activities. • Knowledge of health & safety policies and procedures.

Further Information for Candidates:

Are you currently legally entitled to work and reside in Ireland?

If you are not currently an EEA Citizen and have stated, you are currently legally entitled to work and reside in Ireland. You MUST upload a copy of your current Visa and Work permit in the attachments section application form, or your application will not be processed. Please note your current work authorisation status must allow you to fulfil the terms of the contract on offer.

Recruitment Procedures used at University of Limerick (UL)

University of Limerick uses a three-stage recruitment procedure: screening, shortlisting and interview.

Screening: Initially, applications for an advertised position are screened to determine if applicants meet the ‘Essential Criteria’ as outlined in the advertised job description. It is only candidates who meet the ‘Essential Criteria’ that progress beyond this stage.

Shortlisting: Depending on the number of applications remaining, it may not be possible to interview every candidate who has passed the screening process. Therefore, at this stage the Selection Board may review the applications and select a final shortlist of candidates who, in their view, are most closely aligned to the post as advertised.

Interview: Once a shortlist has been finalised, all applicants will be notified of the status of their application. The final shortlist of candidates will then be invited to interview. We aim to provide at least two weeks’ notice to all candidates. The interview process will take the format of a standard interview and may include a presentation –you will be provided with details of this in your invitation to interview letter.

University of Limerick benefits to staff

Employees of the University of Limerick receive a variety of benefits including: • Supported professional development under the Researcher Development Programme and Staff Training Programmes.

• Membership of the Public Sector Single Public Service Pension Scheme.

• Membership of the Income Continuance Plan

• The opportunity to join the University’s Additional Life Cover plan.

• Coverage in the UL Sick Leave Scheme (available under “S” on the HR A- Z)

• Flexible working practices such as the Shorter Working Year Scheme.

• Preferential rates for health insurance.

• Employee wellness is a priority and a number of initiatives take place each year for the benefit of UL employees, see more at Be Well at UL.

• Preferential rates for access to the UL Arena swimming pool and fitness centre.

Additional Links: • Join the Team in UL Join the team in UL | University of Limerick • Link to website for new staff New To UL - Staff Roadmap

Equal Opportunities

University of Limerick holds a Silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of our commitment to advancing equality in higher education. University of Limerick is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to selection on merit, welcoming applicants from all sections of the community. UL is committed to developing and maintaining a positive working environment, in which all employees are treated with dignity & respect. In pursuit of this, it is the policy of the University to provide all employees with an environment which is free from bullying, harassment or victimisation of any form. You can read more about UL’s commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion here.

Culture Charter A positive culture within an organisation is a shared system of values and behaviours that influence and reflect how its people behave and interact with each other and the wider community. It is shaped by the everyday actions, behaviours and words that are used. The values and behaviours outlined in UL’s Culture Charter should guide how we act, interact and connect with one another in the challenges and successes of university life.

Pension Abatement If an appointee has previously been employed in the Civil or Public Service and that appointee is entitled to or in receipt of a pension from the Civil or Public Service or where a Civil/Public Service pension comes into payment during the appointee’s re-employment that pension will be subject to abatement in accordance with Section 52 of the Public Service Pensions (Single Scheme and other Provisions) Act 2012. Please note: In applying for this position you are acknowledging that you understand that the abatement provisions, where relevant, will apply. It is not envisaged that the employing Department/Office/Body will support an application for an abatement waiver in respect of appointments to this position.

Qualifications Please take note of the essential qualifications for this position as listed in the job description. If you are successful in being offered this position, the offer will be made pending the Chair of the selection committee verifying your qualifications. Therefore, after the interview, you will be required to forward your transcripts to the Chair by email. No contract of employment will be issued until all required documentation is received. [pic]