Help shape transport infrastructure in Far North Queensland. Join Transport and Main Roads as a Principal Engineer (Civil) in a permanent, flexible full-time role with the Delivery team, Delivery & Operations unit, based in Cairns.

Bring your engineering and project management expertise to coordinate preconstruction, procurement, contract administration and delivery activities. Work with district teams and design consultants to achieve fit-for-purpose designs, quality documentation and value-for-money project outcomes, on time and within budget.

Job details

Make a difference to Far North Queensland's transport network as Principal Engineer (Civil) with TMR's Delivery team in Cairns. You will provide engineering expertise, assurance and coordination across procurement, preconstruction, contract administration and construction delivery. Working with district planning, technical services and design teams, and external design consultants, you will help deliver quality documentation and project outcomes on time and within budget.

Key responsibilities include:
• Apply high-level engineering and project management expertise to preconstruction, managing risks to achieve fit-for-purpose designs and value for money.
• Collaborate with internal project managers to provide preconstruction advice and quality assurance.
• Coordinate relevant preconstruction disciplines, including environmental, cultural heritage and geotechnical requirements, so projects can be designed and delivered as planned.
• Manage contract performance and construction practices through efficient procedures and best practice.
• Supervise and coordinate resources, fostering effective teamwork and a shared focus on project objectives.
Further information on the role can be found in the attached role description.

Mandatory qualifications and conditions
• A Washington Accord accredited four-year degree in Civil Engineering or equivalent recognised by Engineers Australia.
• Registration as a Registered Professional Engineer of Queensland (RPEQ) is mandatory for appointment; however, applications will also be considered with evidence that an assessment for RPEQ has commenced.
• Current holder of a Class C driver licence.
• Must be eligible to work in Australia
• Criminal history screening will be conducted for the recommended person.
• Pre-employment check of serious discipline history for the recommended candidate(s) as a condition of employment.

What you'll bring
• Experience with road design standards, plans, specifications and construction, supported by strong engineering investigation, reporting and project management skills.
• Sound governance, analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage risks, make informed decisions and build enduring stakeholder relationships.

What We Offer:
• Competitive remuneration, including generous superannuation and leave provisions.
• Five weeks of annual leave plus an additional leave day each year, with access to Volunteer and Community Service Leave.
• Ongoing training and development opportunities.
• Flexible working arrangements, such as working from home, part-time hours, and flexible start/finish times (subject to approval).
• Employer superannuation contributions up to 12.75%.
• Annual leave loading.
• Salary packaging arrangements.
• Wellbeing initiatives, including an Employee Assistance Program.
• Generous parental leave entitlements.
• Relocation assistance.

Diversity and Inclusion:
At Transport and Main Roads, we foster a workplace culture built on respect, dignity, and fairness. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and lived experiences, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with
disabilities, culturally diverse individuals, and women.

If you require additional support or adjustments, such as interpreting services, assistive technologies, or specific physical accommodations, please let us know to ensure you can showcase your abilities during the recruitment process.

Additional Information:
Applications for this role may also be considered for similar vacancies within the Far North District for up to 12 months after the closing date of the initial vacancy.

Applications will remain current for 12 months.

Job Ad Reference: QLD/706339/26

Closing Date: Tuesday, 17 November 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 (3) (PDF, 255KB)
  
  
  Engineering Registration Requirement in QLD (PDF, 350KB)
  
  
  706339 26 Role Description (Word, 579KB)
  Role Description