An exciting permanent opportunity is available for a Principal Engineer (Civil) to join the Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program – North Queensland, based in Cairns.
In this role, you will lead the planning and delivery of key road infrastructure projects, provide specialist engineering advice, and support successful program outcomes across time, cost, quality and stakeholder expectations.

As Principal Engineer (Civil), you will manage the planning and delivery of key components of the Queensland Transport and Roads Investment Program (QTRIP) and provide specialist technical expertise across complex road infrastructure projects. You will lead internal and external resources, support disciplined project delivery, and provide advice that enables successful outcomes for the Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program - North Queensland.

Key responsibilities include:

- Coordinate, lead and manage the delivery and ongoing development of QTRIP projects, including identifying network deficiencies, risks and opportunities.
- Provide effective leadership to professional, technical, consultant and contractor resources to support project commitments and program outcomes.
- Develop project management plans and provide explicit reporting on progress, expenditure, forecasts, risks and performance.
- Ensure relevant standards, policies, guidelines and legislative requirements are applied across all phases of road infrastructure delivery.
- Provide expert advice on technical governance, contract management, issue resolution and contract performance, including acting as Representative of the Principal as delegated.

Further information on the role can be found in the attached role description.

This role offers the chance to influence the delivery of significant safety-focused road infrastructure for North Queensland while working with experienced project, engineering and technical teams.

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 be considered where evidence is provided that an assessment for RPEQ has commenced.
- Current holder of a Class C driver licence.
- Must be eligible to work in Australia
- Due to this role having access to sensitive data, a criminal history check will be undertaken prior to appointment to the role.
- Pre-employment check of serious discipline history for the recommended candidate(s) as a condition of employment.

Desirable requirements

- Qualification or certification in project management.

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 to remain current for 12 months after the closing date of the initial vacancy.

Job Ad Reference: QLD/701746/26

Closing Date: Tuesday, 6 October 2026

📌 Principal Engineer (Civil) (Cairns)
🏢 Department of Transport & Main Roads QLD
📍 Cairns