Principal Engineer

About the role

As the Principal Engineer (Ripley PDA) you will be part of the Development Planning Branch and responsible for leading the engineering assessment of development applications within the Ripley Valley Priority Development Area (PDA).

Your main focus will be to provide expert engineering advice and decision-making on complex development applications in the Ripley Valley PDA.

Some of your key responsibilities will include:

• Provide specialist advice with regards to engineering
• Exercise balanced judgement consistent with the relevant legislation when seeking additional information required to decide an application
• Carry out engineering assessments of highly complex Ripley Valley PDA development applications, including large subdivisions, material change of use, operational works, and compliance assessment applications
• Carry out maintenance inspections and other post-development approval processes, including offset application assessments to provide whole-of-project support for development in the Ripley Valley PDA
• Co-ordinate with other engineers, planners, and external project partners
• Provide guidance and mentor other team members on engineering related matters in the Ripley Valley PDA including during pre-lodgement discussions and assessment of applications
• Continue to review our overall assessment processes and identify any areas for improvement

View the position description for more details about the role.

About you

To be successful in this role you will have:

• Belief in our values of communication, collaboration, integrity, efficiency, and leadership
• An optimistic approach to challenges, commitment to excellence, and ability to lead with both technical expertise and genuine care for outcomes
• A passion for leadership, innovation and community impact
• Exceptional work ethic, deep knowledge, and a fearless attitude—especially when tackling complex issues
• Possess a degree in civil engineering or a related field from a recognised university or other tertiary institution
• Current Queensland C class driver's licence

About the benefits

This is a permanent full time position, with a salary commencing at $133,727 plus 12.5% superannuation.

• Positive workplace culture: Be part of a team that values positivity, inclusivity and a supportive environment where everyone can thrive
• Work/Life balance: Enjoy a supportive approach to work/life balance to maintain your well-being while fulfilling your work ambitions
• Diversity and inclusion: Work with a diverse workforce where different ideas and perspectives lead to innovation and better decision making
• Learning and development: Experience ongoing learning, development and career opportunities to enhance your skills, expertise and knowledge of industry trends
• Health and well-being: Access to discounted gym memberships, employee assistance program and special events supporting your physical and mental health
• Leave options: Annual leave with 17.5% leave loading, cultural leave and other leave options
• Salary packaging: Tailor a variety of salary packaging options to your needs such as financial advice, income protection insurance, professional memberships, novated leases and more

About us

Ipswich is a dynamic blend of rich heritage, proud communities, diverse landscapes, and a lively energy all contributing to a region full of liveability and opportunity. It is the state's fastest growing city and one of the oldest provincial cities.

Ipswich City Council contributes to our vibrant and growing region with teams operating across various industries delivering services to the community and creating our vision:

'Ipswich, a city of opportunity for all. Join us.'

We have a workplace culture built on our values of safety and wellbeing, communication, collaboration, integrity, efficiency, and leadership. Come and join us in shaping the future of the city and its people.

Join us

If you share our values and are passionate about enhancing the quality of life for the Ipswich community, then this could be the role for you.

Please apply online and submit:

• A cover letter of no more than 2 pages describing how your skills and experience will assist in meeting the requirements of this role
• A resume of no more than 4 pages including current licences/tickets/qualifications/certificates/visa that you hold

Closing date: 2 September 2025

Please direct any related questions to

Pre Employment Screening: Successful applicants must agree to provide information for pre employment screening including referee checks, validation of eligibility to work in Australia, criminal history check and may include heath assessments, validation of qualifications and licences and other screening checks.

Ipswich City Council is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer: We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace by supporting equal opportunities regardless of gender, culture, generation, sexual orientation, or disability. We promote a respectful workplace culture that is free from all forms of harassment, workplace bullying, discrimination, and violence.