Principal Technician

Principal Technician (Materials), Transport and Main Roads Department of Transport and Main Roads QLD – Cairns QLD An exciting permanent opportunity has become available for a Principal Technician (Materials) to join the Materials Laboratory team, Technical Services unit Far North District, based in Cairns. As Principal Technician (Materials), you will provide specialist technical advice to internal and external stakeholders, collaborate with regional and state Materials Services teams, and contribute as a senior member of the statewide TMR Materials Services community. As Principal Technician (Materials), you will provide expert advice on departmental standards, procedures, and technical systems to TMR and industry. You will lead research and investigation projects to enhance materials testing and practices, deliver specialist laboratory, field, and surveillance services and support technology transfer for transport infrastructure. Key Responsibilities Leading and managing materials facilities, staff, and operations, fostering innovation to meet client needs. Developing strategies and managing complex testing, surveillance and audit services for QTRIP delivery. Contributing to new systems, procedures, methodologies, and standards for TMR and industry. Providing specialist advice on materials testing, geotechnical instruments, equipment calibration, audits and compliance with NATA standards. Monitoring laboratory performance and advising on strategies to maintain technical governance. Further information on the role can be found in the attached role description. Mandatory Qualifications and Conditions Possession of a Diploma of Laboratory Technology or acceptable equivalent from a recognised tertiary institution or registered training organisation is mandatory. 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 Possession of an Advanced Diploma of Laboratory Operations or acceptable equivalent from a recognised tertiary institution or registered training organisation is desirable. Recognised as a NATA signatory accountable for the veracity of Test certificates and Sampling Certificates in keeping with the department’s Corporate NATA Accreditation. 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 for this role may also be considered for similar vacancies within the Far North District for up to 12 months after the closing date of the initial vacancy. Job Ad Reference Job Ad Reference: QLD/ /25 — Closing Date: Monday, 01 December 2025 #J-18808-Ljbffr