Engineer – Graduate (Civil)
(2 positions available, 24 months fixed term)
Requisition Number: 1091
Salary Range: $76,825.20 - $90,819.51 per annum
Position Type: Full Time, Temporary, 24 months fixed term | 2 positions available
Location: 119 – 145 Spence Street, Cairns
Application Close Date: Sunday 3 May 2026 at 11.30pm AEST
Join Cairns Regional Council's 24‐month Civil Graduate Engineer Program and kick‐start your career working on real‐world infrastructure projects that support communities across Far North Queensland. Through structured rotations across the full asset lifecycle, you'll gain hands‐on experience, professional mentoring and a clear pathway toward RPEQ registration.
What we're looking for
We're seeking motivated and curious civil engineering graduates who are ready to apply their technical knowledge in a practical, local government environment. You'll have recently completed (or be close to completing) a Bachelor Degree in Civil Engineering recognised by Engineers Australia and be eligible for Graduate membership. You enjoy problem‐solving, can think analytically, and are keen to learn from experienced engineers across a range of disciplines including transport, water & wastewater and stormwater & waterways. Strong communication skills, good organisation, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team are essential, along with a genuine interest in community infrastructure and continuous professional development.
What you'll be doing
* Participating in a structured 24‐month rotation program across initiation, planning, design, construction, operation, maintenance and disposal phases across Council's infrastructure, building broad technical, professional, and leadership capability aligned with Engineers Australia and working toward RPEQ registration under the guidance of experienced engineers.
* Participate in rotation objectives within scope, time and quality parameters, while actively engaging in training, mentoring and feedback processes and receiving positive stakeholder and supervisor feedback.
* Accurately maintain engineering documentation and records in accordance with Council policies and governance requirements and demonstrate safe work practices.
This is a great opportunity to build a strong foundation for your engineering career while making a meaningful contribution to the Cairns 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
* Salary sacrifice opportunities
* Grow personally and professionally with learning and development opportunities
We are committed to
* Fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment
* Embracing innovation and continuous improvement
* Cultivating a culture of professional growth and support
Now we want to hear about YOU!
Applications MUST be submitted online through the 'Apply' button and include a Cover Letter addressing the selection criteria and Resume outlining previous academic and work experience and if requested include attachments of the relevant qualifications and licenses, relating to the role.
For further information about this role please download the Position Description which includes the Key Duties, Responsibilities and Selection Criteria.
Council's Recruitment Team can be contacted via:
Phone: (07) 4044 3310Email: jobs@cairns.qld.gov.auWebsite: Employment at Council | Cairns Regional Council
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