Principal Engineer – Roads and Highways

About the role

SMEC is seeking a Principal Civil Engineer – Roads & Highways to lead major transport infrastructure projects in North Queensland, based in Townsville. The role combines technical leadership, client relationship management, and mentorship to deliver high‑quality road and highway solutions that improve regional connectivity.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the design and delivery of complex roads and highways projects across North Queensland.
• Provide technical leadership and guidance to multidisciplinary project teams.
• Develop and maintain strong client relationships to support repeat work and business growth.
• Oversee project performance, ensuring quality, budget and programme requirements are achieved.
• Mentor and develop engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence and collaboration.
• Support strategic planning and contribute to the growth of the Roads & Highways capability in the region.
• Collaborate with teams across Australia and New Zealand to deliver integrated infrastructure solutions.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in civil engineering, specifically in roads and highways projects.
• Proven leadership experience managing multidisciplinary teams on large‑scale transport infrastructure.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain client relationships.
• Strong track record of delivering projects on time, within budget and to quality standards.
• Experience mentoring and developing engineering staff.

Required skills

What we offer

• Flexible working arrangements.
• 18 weeks of universal paid parental leave.
• Inclusive, gender‑equitable workplace with LGBTI+ and First Nations support.
• Professional development, mentoring and sponsorship programs.
• Opportunity to work on iconic infrastructure projects across Australia and globally.