Principal Structural Engineer: Defence Infrastructure Lead

KBR, Inc; Adelaide; On-site; AUD 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Job summary

KBR, Inc in Adelaide is seeking a Principal Structural Engineer to lead complex defence infrastructure projects, providing authoritative engineering guidance across design, construction and assurance.

The role blends technical governance with discipline leadership, mentoring engineers, reviewing designs, and supporting bids while ensuring safety, compliance and on‑time delivery for high‑profile programs. Australian citizenship and the ability to obtain Defence clearance are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Structural Engineering (or equivalent).
• Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) with Engineers Australia RPEQ, RPEV or equivalent registration, or willingness to obtain if required.
• Extensive experience delivering structural engineering services within regulated environments.
• Strong background in complex buildings and/or defence infrastructure projects.
• In‑depth knowledge of Australian Standards, construction compliance and assurance processes.
• Proven ability to exercise authoritative engineering judgement in complex, high‑risk situations.
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with confidence engaging senior clients and stakeholders.
• Collaborative mindset with sound commercial awareness.
• Australian citizenship and ability to obtain Defence security clearance is required.

Responsibilities

• Provide senior structural engineering leadership across complex buildings and defence infrastructure projects.
• Act as a senior structural authority, advising on design intent, constructability, sequencing and risk.
• Review and approve structural designs, shop drawings, construction methodologies, ITPs and temporary works.
• Resolve complex structural and constructability issues arising during construction.
• Ensure structural works are delivered in line with programme, budget, quality and safety requirements.
• Work closely with construction teams, contractors and multidisciplinary engineering teams.
• Champion safety leadership and ensure compliance with WHS, Defence site and regulatory requirements.
• Represent KBR in client, contractor and regulator meetings.
• Provide mentoring and technical guidance to engineers, reviewing outputs and supporting development.
• Contribute to discipline standards, technical assurance frameworks and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Support tenders, proposals and client engagements with senior technical input.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Security clearance

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Structural Engineering

Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) with Engineers Australia

Job description

KBR, Inc in Adelaide is seeking a Principal Structural Engineer to lead complex defence infrastructure projects, providing authoritative engineering guidance across design, construction and assurance.

The role blends technical governance with discipline leadership, mentoring engineers, reviewing designs, and supporting bids while ensuring safety, compliance and on‑time delivery for high‑profile programs. Australian citizenship and the ability to obtain Defence clearance are required.