Are you ready to make a meaningful impact by shaping enterprise bargaining strategies that support Queensland’s education workforce?

The Department of Education is seeking a proactive and innovative professional to drive initiatives that ensure fair workplace practices and align with our commitment to fostering collaboration, navigating complex industrial relations and achieving organisational goals within legislative frameworks.

This position is available on a permanent, full-time basis; however, we also welcome applications from candidates interested in a 12-month secondment opportunity.

Job details

About the Department 

Working for the Queensland Department of Education means joining an organisation that values its people and promotes leadership and innovation. Be part of an environment that respects professionalism and diversity, offers training and development opportunities and embraces flexible careers and work-life balance. Find out more about working with us.

About the Department of Education

The Industrial Relations (IRS) team, within the Human Resources Strategy Branch plays a critical role in managing the Department of Education's industrial relations framework. The IRS team leaders five complex bargaining rounds for the department, including managing industrial action, scope applications, and industrial disputes related to bargaining.

Your Role

This Brisbane-based AO7 Principal Advisor role is part of the Industrial Relations Strategy team within the Human Resources Strategy Branch of the Department of Education. Reporting to the Manager, Industrial Relations Strategy, you will join a team to provide expert advice and guidance on enterprise bargaining and industrial relations matters.

The team's work is dynamic and evolves throughout the bargaining cycle, with agreements expiring every three years. The role involves  contributing to the ongoing coordination and promotion of high-quality employee and industrial relations services and solutions in a large and complex organisation and to lead and oversee projects with a specific focus on industrial relations outcomes associated with enterprise bargaining.

Responsibilities include

As the Principal Advisor, your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:  

• Lead and manage enterprise bargaining processes to develop and implement fair and effective workplace agreements.
• Provide expert advice and guidance on industrial relations matters, ensuring compliance with legislative and organisational requirements.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including unions and government agencies, to influence policy outcomes and resolve complex issues.
• Prepare high-quality briefing materials, reports, and submissions for senior executives and stakeholders.
• Oversee the development and implementation of policies, procedures, and tools to support effective workforce management and operational efficiency.

About You

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and influence diverse stakeholders effectively.
• Excellent time management and organisational abilities to manage competing priorities and meet critical deadlines.
• Demonstrated experience in enterprise bargaining, industrial relations, or workforce policy development within a complex organisational or government setting.
• Proven ability to analyse complex issues, provide strategic advice, and develop innovative solutions.
• A collaborative and proactive approach to fostering positive workplace relationships and achieving shared goals.

Benefits

• Generous superannuation contributions of up to 12.75%.
• Flexible work arrangements, including options for part-time or full-time employment, to support work-life balance.
• Convenient Brisbane-based location with easy access to public transport and nearby amenities.
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression within a supportive and inclusive workplace that values diversity and innovation.

Please refer to the attached role description for the full list of responsibilities and mandatory requirements for this position. 

Interested? To Apply 

• Attach a brief resume including contact details for 2 referees (referees should be familiar with your relevant work history). 
• Attach a written statement (2-page maximum)  in response to the attached role description.

We welcome all applicants to share any support needed to ensure our recruitment process is inclusive. 

Applications remain current for 12 months from the closing date and may be considered for appointment to identical or similar vacancies within the Department. 

Applications from recruitment agencies will not be accepted. 

Further information

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

For a full list of the position responsibilities and mandatory requirements, please ensure you download the attached Role Description and Applicant Information Package and follow the instructions.

Documents

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

• Applicant Information Package (PDF, 232KB)
  Information Package for Applicants
  
  CO672068_25P - Role Description (PDF, 137KB)
  Role Description