Soil Technician

PTG Group; Cairns Regional; On-site; AUD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

PTG Group's ETS Geotechnical division invites applications for a Soil Technician position in the Cairns Laboratory. The role covers field and laboratory testing across a range of methods, following Australian Standards, and involves training in test methods.

You will liaise with internal staff and clients while maintaining and operating equipment to ensure accurate results. The ideal candidate is self-motivated, a quick learner with strong communication and problem-solving skills, able to work

Qualifications

• Certificate 3 in Construction Materials Testing (NATA Level 2) or willing to obtain.
• Nuclear Gauge License (preferable, not required)
• Self-motivated, quick learner with a positive attitude

Responsibilities

• Undertake field and laboratory testing across a broad range of methods, including but not limited to Australian Standards
• Complete laboratory testing at the required production level
• Undertake training in test methods
• Follow procedures directed by the Laboratory Manager
• Prepare worksheets checking measurements and calculations of test results of other technicians
• Maintain, clean and test equipment while keeping work area tidy
• Liaise with internal staff and clients

Skills

Microsoft Office

Travel availability

Communication skills

Problem solving

Teamwork

Independence

Time management

Education

Certificate 3 in Construction Materials Testing

NATA Level 2

Tools

Nuclear gauge license

Job description

ETS Geotechnical, part of PTG Group, provides comprehensive geotechnical drilling, construction materials testing, and consulting services to clients across Far North Queensland, Papua New Guinea, and the Torres Strait. With operations based in Cairns and additional laboratories across the region, we support government, mining, and private sector projects of all sizes.

Our team has extensive experience delivering field investigations in both urban and remote environments, with in-house drilling capability that allows us to efficiently manage and prioritise project programs. We specialise in Department of Transport and Main Roads projects, local government works, and site laboratories, delivering reliable, cost-effective outcomes on time and within budget.

At ETS, we value precision, responsiveness, and strong local knowledge. As part of PTG Group, you’ll join a wider network of engineering, drilling, and materials testing professionals dedicated to shaping stronger, safer communities across Australia and the Pacific.

We are seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Soil Technician to join our team in our Cairns Laboratory.

Key Responsibilities:

Undertake both field and laboratory testing across a broad range of methods, including but not limited to Australian Standards

Complete laboratory testing at the required production level

Undertake training in test methods

Follow procedures directed by the Laboratory Manager

Prepare worksheets checking measurements and calculations of test results of other technicians

Maintain, clean and test equipment while keeping work area tidy

Liaise with internal staff and clients

About You:

You will be self-motivated, a fast learner and bring a positive attitude to the team. We are ideally looking for technicians or trainees who possess:

Good knowledge of Microsoft office Suite (Outlook, Word and Excel)

The ability to work flexible hours and travel for work when required

Strong communication and problem-solving skills

The ability to work under pressure, show initiative, prioritise and schedule work

The ability to be a team player and work unsupervised

Qualifications

Certificate 3 in Construction Materials Testing (NATA Level 2) or willing to obtain

Nuclear Gauge License (preferable, not required)