Demonstrated expertise in the properties, behaviour and performance of civil engineering materials used in transport infrastructure. Ability to collaborate effectively within a team and contribute to shared outcomes. Proven capacity to deliver projects, manage competing priorities and overcome challenges to achieve results. Strong communication skills, including preparing detailed technical reports and clearly conveying complex information to diverse stakeholders. Sound understanding of governance, with the ability to operate within legislative and policy frameworks and guide others in compliance. Demonstrated adaptability in dynamic environments, with the capability to lead and support change while maintaining high standards of quality, safety and performance.

Job details

As a Principal Technician (Materials), you will operate as a senior technical specialist within the Materials Services team, providing expert advice, consultancy and leadership to support the delivery of high-quality transport infrastructure outcomes.

You will play a critical role in ensuring the consistent interpretation and application of materials testing standards, procedures, protocols, and technical systems used by Transport & Main Roads (TMR) and industry stakeholders.

In this role, you will deliver technical guidance and training to laboratory and field personnel, supporting the correct implementation of test methods and departmental standards. You will contribute to building capability across the civil materials testing community by advancing knowledge in materials performance and testing practices relevant to planning and construction activities undertaken across district laboratories.

Using established project management methodologies, you will design, lead and participate in research and investigation projects aimed at improving materials testing practices. These initiatives will support continuous improvement, innovation and the development of best practice approaches within a diverse materials environment, including pavements, aggregates, asphalt, concrete and geotechnical materials.

You will be responsible for ensuring the effective delivery of specialist laboratory, field and surveillance services associated with transport infrastructure projects. This includes overseeing testing quality, compliance with standards, and the reliability of results used to inform engineering decisions.

As a senior member of the Materials Services community, you will collaborate across regional and statewide teams to support service delivery, promote consistency and contribute to technology transfer initiatives that strengthen technical capability across TMR.

Key Responsibilities:
Lead and manage the local Materials Services team, providing operational oversight, direction and technical leadership.
Manage and deliver materials testing and investigation services for infrastructure projects.
Prepare detailed technical reports with analysis, recommendations and risk considerations.
Provide expert advice on test methods, standards, and interpretation of results.
Oversee specialist investigations, audits, and instrumentation activities.
Review geotechnical investigation briefs and assess adequacy.
Ensure compliance with standards, specifications, and NATA requirements.
Manage calibration and maintenance of laboratory and field testing equipment.
Deliver surveillance and audit programs to monitor materials quality.
Engage with clients and stakeholders to manage expectations and resolve issues.
Monitor laboratory performance and advise on technical governance improvements.
Lead training and technology transfer initiatives for staff and industry.
Promote the value of materials testing within the Department.
Apply contemporary HR and WHS practices to maintain a safe and equitable workplace.

Role Impact:
Through your technical expertise and leadership, you will enhance the quality consistency, and reliability of materials testing services, contributing to safer, more efficient and durable transport infrastructure across Queensland.

Applications to remain current for 12 months.

Job Ad Reference: QLD/693760/26

Closing Date: Monday, 13 July 2026

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, 322KB)
  
  
  693760 26 Role Description v1 (Word, 580KB)