In the role of Principal Technician (Materials) you will provide advice, consultancy and training in the interpretation and application of test methods, Departmental standards, procedures, protocols and guides including the use and application of relevant technical systems for Transport & Main Roads (TMR) and industry. You will ensure the delivery of specialist laboratory, field and surveillance services associate with transport infrastructure projects, within a significant and diverse materials environment. As a senior member of TMR’s Materials Service community, contribute and collaborate with other Materials Service teams across the state in the delivery of services and technology transfer associated with the construction and testing of transport infrastructure.

Job details

Some of your responsibilities will include:
• Lead the Materials Services team, providing operational oversight and direction for the unit and technical leadership for staff.
• Project manage the delivery of materials testing and investigation services for transport infrastructure projects.
• Prepare detailed technical reports from research and investigation activities, presenting findings and interpretations, offering recommendations and practical solutions, and identifying relevant risks.
• Provide specialist advice, services and technical leadership in:
o procedural aspects of tests and the interpretation of test results
o methodologies used for specialist investigations, audit and instrumentation activities
o the adequacy of geotechnical investigation briefs developed by consultants
o interpretation and application of codes of practice, testing procedures and standards, specifications and technical notes
o management, calibration and maintenance program for laboratory and field-testing equipment
o provision of custom solutions and reporting to NATA standards.
• Manage a program of surveillance and audit activity targeting materials testing services and quality of materials supplied to projects.
• Prepare reports detailing the results of surveillance and audit activities, presenting findings with identified necessary actions, and all framed within the context of risk for the project.
• Undertake stakeholder liaison to ensure expectations and needs are managed, projects are being delivered, performance is reviewed, and issues addressed.
• Monitor and review the performance of laboratories and provide advice to senior technical management on strategies to achieve and maintain technical governance standards.
• Provide technology transfer by managing the development and delivery of training including project linked training for departmental and industry engineering and technical personnel.

Mandatory qualifications and conditions
• Possession of a “C” Class driver's licence.
• Possession of a Diploma of Laboratory Technology or acceptable equivalent from
a recognised tertiary institution or RTO is mandatory.
• It is expected that the successful applicant will adhere to health monitoring protocols as provided by the Department in line with the requirements of the Work Health and Safety Regulation (Qld) 2011.
• Due to this role having access to sensitive data, a criminal history check will be undertaken prior to appointment to the role.

Desirable qualifications
• Possession of an Advanced Diploma of Laboratory Technology or acceptable equivalent from a recognised tertiary institution or registered training organisation is desirable.
• Possession of an Associate Degree in Engineering or acceptable equivalent from a recognised tertiary institution is highly desirable.
• Recognised as a NATA signatory accountable for the veracity of Test certificates and Sampling Certificates in keeping with the departments Corporate NATA Accreditation.

Requirements of the role
• Demonstrates expertise and sound knowledge in the characteristics, behaviours and performance of civil engineering materials associated with transport infrastructure projects.
• Works constructively within a team environment for the betterment of the team.
• Proven ability to deliver project outcomes and demonstrates persistence in working through obstacles and challenges in the delivery of agreed outcomes.
• Strong communication skills with proven ability to prepare technical reports and communicate in a clear, succinct manner.
• Demonstrates sound governance by supporting others to embrace and operate within legislative and policy frameworks.

Applications to remain current for 12 months

Job Ad Reference: QLD/671183/25

Closing Date: Monday, 8th December 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, 322KB)
  
  
  671183 25 Role description (Word, 580KB)