Principal Inspector (Agriculture)

Role Overview

This position is designated exclusively for current employees of the Office of Industrial Relations. Based in Townsville, Queensland, the Principal Inspector (Agriculture) leads a team of inspectors to advance workplace health and safety compliance in the agricultural sector. The role involves balancing leadership, technical expertise, and sound judgement to influence safety outcomes and uphold regulatory standards.

About Workplace Health and Safety Queensland

• Enforces comprehensive workplace health and safety legislation.
• Conducts investigations into workplace fatalities and serious incidents.
• Pursues legal action against legislative breaches.
• Provides education to employers and workers about safety responsibilities.
• Promotes safer work environments through prevention, compliance, and enforcement strategies.

The organization strives to reduce workplace harm and enhance safety across high-risk industries.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and mentorship to operational inspection teams.
• Guide and oversee complex investigative processes within the agriculture sector.
• Collaborate closely with agriculture industry stakeholders to foster improved health and safety standards.
• Support the Best Practice Review of Workplace Health and Safety Queensland to meet community expectations regarding compliance and enforcement.
• Manage stakeholder relationships effectively and navigate high-pressure situations professionally.
• Promote a positive safety culture and influence industry compliance behaviours.

Qualifications and Experience

• Proven experience in stakeholder engagement and leadership.
• Extensive knowledge in applying safety protocols, compliance frameworks, or enforcement measures.
• Ability to confidently handle complex and challenging discussions.
• Track record in mentoring teams and strengthening workplace safety culture.
• A strong commitment to enhancing workplace health and safety outcomes.

Application Instructions

Applicants must submit their resume along with a two-page statement addressing the following:

• Motivation for applying and alignment with leadership experience and career objectives.
• Example of leading safety protocol or enforcement activities in a high-risk context, including actions taken and results.
• Example of managing a difficult stakeholder interaction with approach and outcome.

Note: Pre-employment checks and testing may be required. The organization promotes diversity, inclusion, and human rights within its workforce. Applications will remain active for 12 months.

Employment Benefits

• Strong job security within the Queensland Public Sector.
• Competitive remuneration and superannuation benefits.
• Access to flexible working arrangements.
• Health and wellness initiatives.
• Opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.

Additional Information

This vacancy is targeted solely at OIR employees. The role requires onsite work in Townsville and involves overseeing agricultural workplace safety compliance and enforcement under WHSQ’s remit.