We're seeking a highly experienced Industrial Relations specialist to join us as our
National IR Manager
to lead workplace relations strategy across our Australian operations. This is a pivotal leadership role where you'll partner with senior executives, guide complex negotiations, and play a critical part in winning and delivering major projects on time and on budget.
Based in our premium Richmond office directly above Burnley train station, you'll enjoy exceptional accessibility along with a modern, well-appointed workspace designed for collaboration and high performance.
Why this role stands out
National impact
- influence strategy and outcomes across major projects
Executive exposure
- work closely with senior leadership and decision-makers
Prime location
- Richmond office, directly above the train station
High-performing culture
- collaborate with smart, driven professionals
Career-defining role
- lead IR at McConnell Dowell, where scale meets genuinely complex, high‐stakes project delivery
The Opportunity
You will be the trusted authority on industrial relations, driving strategy while remaining hands‐on in complex and high‐impact matters.
You will:
Lead and execute national workplace relations strategy aligned to business objectives
Provide expert, commercially focused IR/ER advice to senior leaders and project teams
Manage enterprise bargaining and negotiations to achieve favourable outcomes
Oversee industrial risk, disputes, and sensitive investigations




Represent the business in tribunals and external legal partnerships
Support tenders and project mobilisation with robust IR strategies
Build strong relationships with unions, regulators, and key external stakeholders
What You Bring
You are a confident and credible IR leader who thrives in complex, fast‐paced environments.
Deep expertise in Australian employment legislation, awards, and enterprise agreements
Proven success leading enterprise bargaining and union negotiations
Strong experience managing disputes, industrial action, and tribunal matters
Commercial mindset with the ability to balance risk and project outcomes
Exceptional influencing skills, able to engage and guide senior stakeholders
A proactive, solutions‐focused approach with sound judgement under pressure
Experience and network within the construction industry is preferred
Melbourne home base is preferred but applicants from other cities may be considered.
About Us
McConnell Dowell - Creative Construction. Our purpose is Providing a Better Life. We do that through delivering projects that connect, support and sustain communities, and through providing career opportunities that challenge, reward and grow our people.




From remote major resources and energy projects to city‐shaping transport and water infrastructure, we have constructed thousands of high‐quality, complex projects for our customers and communities over more than 60 years, in Australia, New Zealand, the Pacific Islands and Southeast Asia.
Why join us?
The work you'll do will have a tangible positive impact on people's lives, including yours. The diversity of our projects, roles and locations means greater development opportunities. We invest in our people to set and reach personal and skilled goals and we have some of the best mentoring minds in the business to help you do that. Because when you grow, we all grow.
McConnell Dowell actively seeks and celebrates diversity, inclusion, and individuality. In a culture low on ego and high on support, we encourage everyone to make an impact. We're big enough to take on community‐shaping projects, but agile enough for you to have an influence on how we do things.
So, join us, be you, and help us create better together
Apply now!
We are an equal opportunity employer. People of all ages, abilities, sexual orientation, gender identities & cultures including Aboriginal, and Torres Strait Islanders are strongly encouraged to apply. Please note all successful applicants must hold valid work rights for Australia. This role is being sourced through McConnell Dowell directly and not accepting applications via external recruitment agencies.
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📌 National Industrial Relations Manager (South Australia)
🏢 Mcconnell Dowell
📍 South Australia