Temporary Principal Engineer role available until 30 June 2026.
An exciting, fixed term temporary opportunity has become available for a high-level Principal Engineer to manage the delivery of the Cairns CBD to Smithfield (C2S) Upgrade project in Far North Queensland.

Job details

In the role of Temporary Principal Engineer (Civil) you will manage the delivery of the Cairns CBD to Smithfield (C2S) Upgrade project. The project has successfully past Gate 3 business case and is transitioning into Development (detailed design) and Implementation (construction). The Project Manager will lead and coordinate the preconstruction activities, procurement of design consultants and coordination of internal and external resources to ensure the successful delivery of this flagship project for Far North Queensland.

You will provide specialist technical expertise and advice to other professional and technical staff, to ensure delivery of the projects within time, quality, cost and stakeholder expectations.

Some of your responsibilities will include:
• Lead and mentor project engineers and contractors, ensuring project delivery aligns with best practices, value for money, and design and construction standards.
• Oversee and refine performance and governance processes, while ensuring senior management is kept informed about program status, risks, and opportunities with accurate and timely reporting.
• Deploy expert contractual knowledge to establish effective procurement protocols and actively manage consultant and contractor performance. Monitor work progress in accordance with time, cost, and quality benchmarks, managing resources to maximise program success.
• Continually evaluate and enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of project operations, seeking opportunities for continuous improvement and strategic advancement.
• Act as "Representative of the Principal" for the delivery of contracts as defined and delegated at respective development/implementation project phases.
• Comply with the WH&S Act, Regulations and Department Policy.
• If capacity allows, you will be able to project manage other QTRIP infrastructure projects.

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 to the position.
• Significant experience in managing preconstruction phase of complex project/s.
• Current holder of Class C driver's license.
• Criminal history screening will be conducted for the recommended person for this role.
• Must be eligible to work in Australia.
• Pre-employment check of serious discipline history for the recommended candidate(s) as a condition of employment.

Desirable Experience
• Demonstrated experience in delivering a program of works in highly constrained or sensitive environments.
• Previous experience in managing conflicting stakeholder viewpoints on projects, to arrive at defensible outcomes.

Why you should consider TMR:
• Generous employer superannuation contribution - up to 12.75%
• Five weeks annual recreation leave plus leave loading
• RPEQ compensation payment
• Reimbursement of professional membership fees
• Flexible work options
• Professional development opportunities
• Salary packaging arrangements
• Health and well-being incentives
• Assistance with relocation expenses

Further information on the role and details on how to apply can be found on the role description

Applications to remain current for 12 months.    

Job Ad Reference: QLD/632543/25

Closing Date: Tuesday, 06 May 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 (3) (PDF, 255KB)
  
  
  Engineering Registration Requirement in QLD (PDF, 350KB)
  
  
  632543 25 Role Description (Word, 579KB)