An exciting opportunity has become available for a high performing individual to join the Engineering & Technology branch of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) in the role of a Principal Technician (Materials). TMR is an organisation which offers professional development, a variety of interesting work state-wide, a safe, healthy and secure workplace and flexible work and lifestyle options.

Job details

The Engineering and Technology (E&T) branch is seeking an experienced Principal Technician (Materials) to play a key role in delivering high-quality materials testing for Transport and Main Roads (TMR) projects. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to vital infrastructure across Queensland while supporting the department's multi-site NATA accreditation.

In this role, you will be responsible for the publication and ongoing maintenance of key technical documents, including the Materials Testing Manual and the Nuclear Gauge Testing Manual. These documents are essential in ensuring consistency, reliability and best practice across construction materials testing operations throughout Queensland. You will also contribute to the effective operation of the Construction Materials Testing Supplier Registration System (CMTSRS), a critical tool managed by Materials Laboratory Services (MLS). CMTSRS provides the department with valuable insights into material quality risks and supplier performance across infrastructure projects.

Act as a radiation safety officer for the Bulwer Island laboratory, while providing advice on radiation safety in terms of the use, and storage of Nuclear Guage Densometers used in construction material testing. A key part of your responsibilities will include managing and supporting statewide laboratories under the department's multi-site NATA accreditation. This involves ensuring continued compliance with NATA 17025 requirements, maintaining robust quality systems, and providing technical oversight to uphold accreditation and drive continuous improvement.

In addition, you will provide strategic advice to senior management to support and maintain technical governance standards. You will lead the development of strategies — including training materials and frameworks—that enhance the capability and capacity of MLS units to deliver specialist services and provide technical leadership to industry. You will play a key role in implementing and supporting new and revised testing systems and standards, such as a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). You will also provide high-level technical consultancy to both internal and external stakeholders and lead departmental advice and interpretation on standards, procedures, specifications and best practice guides. This is a highly influential role that offers the opportunity to shape the technical direction of materials testing across the department, ensuring quality, compliance and innovation in support of Queensland's infrastructure delivery.

Imagine being challenged daily, given clear paths for professional training and career development and having the ability to work on interesting and innovative projects.

You will be working for:
• An organisation that connects Queensland through integrated transport systems.
• A department that contributes to the well-being of the larger community.
• An employer that values your talent, skills and knowledge and encourages you to excel in your chosen field.

Transport and Main Roads adopts a variety of approaches when developing its people by using:
• induction programs.
• training and development opportunities.
• management and leadership programs tailored to different levels of staff.
• paid tertiary study (subject to approval).

We can offer you other benefits such as:
• a flexible 36.25-hour working week
• work and life balance including flexible work arrangements
• generous superannuation (employer contribution of up to 12.75%)
• salary sacrificing

Mandatory qualifications and conditions:
• Possession of an Associate Degree in Engineering (Civil), or a Possession of a Advanced Diploma of Laboratory Operations or equivalent from a recognised tertiary institution or registered training organisation.

Applications to remain current for 12 months.

Job Ad Reference: QLD/651239/25

Closing Date; Friday, 08 August 2025

Further information

We are committed to building inclusive cultures in the Queensland public sector that respect and promote human rights and diversity.

Please ensure you download all attachments and follow the instructions on how to apply.

Documents

Before applying for this vacancy please ensure you read the documents below.

• applicant-guide (PDF, 306KB)
  
  
  651239 25 Role Description v1 (Word, 356KB)