Company Overview
Metroelectric – Electricians & Engineers is a proudly Australian-owned turnkey electrical contractor headquartered in Perth, Western Australia. With over a decade of experience in the industry, we specialise in delivering comprehensive electrical solutions across five core divisions: Electrical, Instrumentation & Control Systems, Telecommunications & IT, Design & Engineering, and Maintenance & Asset Management. Our unique strength lies in combining the expertise of licensed electricians with registered professional electrical engineers, ensuring seamless project delivery from initial concept through to completion. As we continue to innovate in areas such as AI‐integrated systems, smart grids, renewable energy solutions, and predictive maintenance technologies, Metroelectric is committed to leveraging research and development (R&D) to drive efficiency, sustainability, and competitive advantage. We actively pursue Australian government incentives, including the R&D Tax Incentive, to support our innovative projects and foster a culture of continuous improvement in the electrical engineering sector.
Job Summary
We are seeking a highly skilled and detail‐oriented Research & Development (R&D) Specialist to join our Design & Engineering division in Perth. This role focuses on identifying, managing, and optimising R&D activities within our electrical engineering projects, with a strong emphasis on obtaining relevant Australian tax exemptions, particularly through the R&D Tax Incentive programme administered by AusIndustry and the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). The successful candidate will ensure compliance with eligibility criteria, prepare registrations and claims, and maximise tax offsets to support our innovation initiatives. This position is ideal for someone with a background in R&D management, tax incentives, and technical knowledge in electrical or engineering fields. It offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting‐edge projects in commercial and light industrial sectors, including AI‐driven automation, energy optimisation, and sustainable infrastructure development. This is a full‐time, permanent role offering a competitive salary package, professional development opportunities, and a collaborative environment that prioritises innovation and work‐life balance.
Key Responsibilities
* R&D Activity Identification and Assessment: Evaluate ongoing and planned projects in electrical systems, instrumentation, control systems, and emerging technologies (e.g., AI integration, smart power distribution) to identify core and supporting R&D activities eligible under the Australian R&D Tax Incentive. Ensure activities meet criteria such as experimental processes for generating new knowledge, where outcomes cannot be determined in advance based on current science.
* Tax Incentive Strategy and Optimization: Develop strategies to maximise benefits from the R&D Tax Incentive, including calculating eligible notional deductions, advising on expenditure thresholds (minimum $20,000 per income year), and applying for tax offsets (up to 43.5% refundable for companies with turnover under $20 million, or 38.5% non‐refundable for larger entities). Monitor the $150 million expenditure cap and recommend adjustments to project scopes for optimal incentive utilisation.
* Registration and Claim Preparation: Lead the self‐assessment process for R&D eligibility, prepare and submit annual registrations with AusIndustry within the required timeframe (typically 10 months after the end of the income year). Compile and submit claims through the company tax return with the ATO, ensuring all documentation aligns with the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 (ITAA 1997).
* Compliance and Record‐Keeping: Maintain detailed contemporaneous records of R&D activities, expenditures, and outcomes to support claims and withstand potential ATO or AusIndustry reviews. Ensure adherence to eligibility requirements, including conducting activities in Australia, and advise on special rules for consolidated groups or partnerships if applicable.
* Expenditure Analysis: Track and categorise eligible R&D expenditures, such as salaries for R&D personnel, materials, contractor costs, and overheads directly related to core or supporting activities. Identify opportunities to collaborate with Registered Research Service Providers (RSPs) for projects under the $20,000 threshold to enable claims.
* Project Integration and Advisory: Collaborate with Electrical Engineers, AI Specialists, Project Managers, and other teams to embed R&D considerations into project planning, design, and execution. Provide expert advice on how to structure projects to qualify for incentives, including generating new knowledge in areas such as improved electrical processes, devices, or services.
* Reporting and Stakeholder Liaison: Prepare internal reports on R&D progress, incentive outcomes, and financial impacts. Liaise with external advisors, auditors, AusIndustry, and the ATO as needed. Conduct training sessions for team members on R&D best practices and incentive eligibility.
* Innovation Research and Monitoring: Stay updated on changes to Australian tax laws, R&D guidelines, and related incentives. Research emerging opportunities in electrical engineering R&D, such as renewable energy innovations or digital twins, and propose initiatives that align with incentive programmes.
* Risk Management: Assess potential risks in claims, such as non‐compliance with core activity definitions or expenditure rules, and implement mitigation strategies. Support audits or reviews by providing evidence‐based responses.
* General Duties: Undertake additional tasks as required, including budgeting for R&D, contributing to grant applications, and participating in cross‐functional teams for project commissioning and handover.
Required Qualifications and Skills
* Education: Bachelor's degree in Engineering (preferably Electrical or Mechanical), Business, Accounting, Tax Law, or a related field. Postgraduate qualifications in R&D Management, Taxation, or Innovation would be advantageous.
* Technical Expertise
o In‐depth knowledge of the Australian R&D Tax Incentive, including eligibility criteria for entities, activities, and expenditures as per ITAA 1997.
o Experience in self‐assessing and documenting core R&D activities (experimental, hypothesis‐driven) and supporting activities.
o Familiarity with electrical engineering concepts, such as power systems, instrumentation, and emerging technologies like AI and IoT.
o Proficiency in financial analysis tools (e.g., Excel, accounting software) for tracking expenditures and calculating tax offsets.
* Certifications and Licences
o Certification or training in Australian taxation or R&D incentives (e.g., from ATO workshops or professional bodies).
o Eligibility for or membership in relevant professional organisations, such as Engineers Australia (EA), CPA Australia, or the Tax Institute.
o Current Driver's Licence (Class C or equivalent).
* Experience
o At least 3‐5 years in R&D management, tax advisory, or incentive claiming roles, preferably in engineering, manufacturing, or technology sectors.
o Proven track record of successfully registering and claiming R&D Tax Incentives, including handling reviews or audits.
o Experience in the Australian electrical or construction industry, with an understanding of standards such as AS/NZS 3000.
* Soft Skills
o Strong analytical and problem‐solving skills for interpreting complex legislation and project data.
o Excellent attention to detail and organisational abilities for record‐keeping and compliance.
o Superior communication skills for reporting, training, and liaising with stakeholders.
o Ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams while managing independent tasks in a fast‐paced environment.
o Commitment to ethical practices, confidentiality, and continuous learning in tax and innovation fields.
* Other Requirements
o Ability to complete and pass a pre‐employment medical examination, including drug and alcohol screening.
o Willingness to travel within the Perth Metro area and occasionally to regional sites.
Preferred Qualifications
* Advanced certifications in taxation or R&D (e.g., Chartered Accountant, Registered Tax Agent).
* Experience with software tools for R&D tracking (e.g., grant management platforms) or data analytics.
* Knowledge of additional Australian incentives, such as Export Market Development Grants or renewable energy rebates.
* Prior involvement in innovative electrical projects, such as smart grid development or sustainable energy solutions.
What We Offer
* Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
* Opportunities for professional growth, including funded training on tax incentives, conferences, and certifications.
* Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid options where feasible.
* Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid parental leave, and employee assistance programmes.
* A collaborative, inclusive company culture with regular team events and a focus on work‐life balance.
* Access to cutting‐edge projects and technologies in a forward‐thinking environment committed to sustainability and innovation.
Metroelectric + You
At Metroelectric, we offer an inclusive workplace built on family values, with a 'Never Assume' culture, sustained by our experienced and supportive management team. We believe our workforce is our greatest asset, and that's why we provide an environment rich in career development opportunities to upskill and develop professionally. Our generous Reward and Recognition scheme recognises employees that go the extra mile.
How to Apply
Please click the "apply" link to start your application. We look forward to starting the pathway to your career with Metroelectric. Alternatively, please email for a confidential chat or call our Recruitment Team on (08) 9266 5506.
Metroelectric is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. Defence force experience is desirable, and veterans are encouraged to apply. We respectfully request no agency submissions.
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