Salary Range: $122,578.71 - $139,958.54 per annum
Position Type: Full-Time Permanent
Location: Council Chambers, 119-145 Spence Street, Cairns
Application Close Date: Sunday, 22 November 2026 at 11.30pm AEST
Shape the future of Cairns through innovative infrastructure design
We are seeking a motivated and technically accomplished Senior Design Engineer to join our Design & Survey Services team and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our region.
What You'll Be Doing:
- Coordinate, lead and motivate supervised staff in the preparation of civil engineering designs.
- Provide engineering supervision and certification for the design team, with respect to the Professional Engineers Act (QLD), as required.
- Hands-on preparation of complex civil engineering designs, using CADD software, and technical reports.
- Provide excellent customer service and actively work to solve customer problems.
- Assist in ensuring designs are delivered in accordance with the design program.
- Assist in development of a culture committed to quality and continuous improvement.
- Provide input into and review of designs undertaken by other disciplines as required in multi-disciplinary projects.
- Provide review of cost estimates and other supporting project documentation as required.
- Provide guidance and support to technical and professional staff.
Our Ideal Candidate:
We are seeking a design engineer with a strong, technical, understanding of design and extensive experience working within a multidisciplinary environment. The ideal candidate will demonstrate effective leadership, sound communication skills and hold a collaborative mindset. They will be expected to integrate into and contribute positively to the established team culture while maintaining a commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes for the Cairns community. They will further be required to acquire and maintain registration as a Registered Professional Engineer of Queensland (RPEQ).
Why Join the Design Team?
Our team combines professionalism with a relaxed and supportive culture. We value collaboration, open communication, and the occasional good-natured banter. We pride ourselves on fostering an environment where people can enjoy coming to work and working together to achieve quality outcomes.
Professional Growth and Development
The team provides excellent opportunities for learning and career development. Graduates, cadets and even experienced professionals benefit from mentorship, knowledge sharing and support from highly experienced staff. Additionally, we actively seek and provide opportunities which assist staff in meeting their Continuous Professional Development (CPD) requirements.
Based in Cairns, we benefit from the unique lifestyle provided by the area. Nestled between the reef and rainforest, the region offers an abundance of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Diverse and Meaningful Projects
Our project portfolio is varied and challenging, providing opportunities to work across multiple disciplines and asset types. We undertake design development for high profile city developments, sporting facilities and park upgrades in addition to a myriad of road and drainage projects. No two projects are the same, and team members take pride in delivering infrastructure that benefits the local community.
Some benefits we offer:
- Achieve work / life balance with flexible working arrangements
- Fitness Passport - subsidised health and well-being memberships (gym/swimming pool)
- Recharge with up to 5 weeks annual leave
- Up to 3 weeks personal leave
- Cherish family time with up to 14 weeks paid parental leave
- Grow personally and professionally with learning and development opportunities
- Salary sacrifice opportunities
- Relocation assistance may be available for preferred candidates.
We are committed to:
- Fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment
- Embracing innovation and continuous improvement
- Cultivating a culture of professional growth and support
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Senior Design Engineer employer: Cairns Regional Council
Cairns Regional Council is an exceptional employer that prioritises community impact and employee development. With flexible hours and a supportive work culture, you will have the opportunity to lead meaningful wellbeing initiatives while collaborating with diverse stakeholders in the beautiful Cairns region. The Council fosters professional growth through training and networking opportunities, making it an ideal place for those passionate about community development.
