About the opportunity
The Department of Orthopaedics at Townsville Hospital is recruiting for a Principal House Officer (PHO). This is one of seven PHO positions within our team of five registrar-level JMOs, and complements our accredited RANZCO training registrars. A high degree of autonomy is inherent in this position, and teamwork with the other JMOs is crucial to your success in this position. The successful candidate will be expected to demonstrate sound clinical judgment and decision-making, and excellent teamwork.
Please note: This is a temporary full-time position, up to 6 months.
Role requirements
Bachelor of Medicine / Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) or recognised equivalent qualification by the Australian Medical Council (AMC).
This is a Vaccine Preventable Disease (VPD) risk role. Hepatitis B, Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Varicella, Pertussis and Tuberculosis.
Please refer to the Role Description for further details.
About your new employer
Townsville Hospital and Health Service (HHS) offers a dynamic healthcare environment with access to advanced clinical practice, complex casework and multidisciplinary collaboration. As a leading tertiary and referral service, we support innovation and continuous professional development.
We provide strong career pathways through education, training and secondment opportunities.
We value teamwork and inclusion, creating a supportive environment where staff can thrive while gaining experience across a variety of clinical settings.
Located in North Queensland, Townsville HHS supports a strong work/life balance with flexible options, job stability and a family-friendly culture. Enjoy affordable living, short commutes and easy access to coastal and outdoor lifestyle opportunities.
The ideal applicant will be someone who has proven ability and can demonstrate the following:
Knowledge of current medical practices and issues, and evidence of an appropriate level of expertise in the skills of the discipline.
Demonstrated ability to review, analyse and evaluate patient care for the identification of appropriate treatment and investigations.
Ability to maintain accurate and complete medical records - clinical, administrative and statistical.
Well-developed communication skills (written, oral and interpersonal skills) with the ability to communicate with all levels of staff and hospital clients from a variety of backgrounds.
A personal commitment to the maintenance of high standards in the clinical care to patients and proven ability to react promptly to emergency or urgent situations impacting upon patient care.
Ability to practice medicine in a cross-cultural environment.
Build relationships with patients and members of the multidisciplinary team, using strong communications skills and negotiation skills to understand needs and to deliver a service that meets their needs and policy
Competitive salary and benefits:
We offer attractive remuneration packages and generous leave entitlements.
Salary range: $5258.70 - $5775.70 p.f. (L4-L7)
4 weeks annual leave (pro rata) with 17.5% loading
Locality allowance
12.75% employer contribution to superannuation
Plus Salary Sacrificing options may be available
Apply now
Enquiries are welcome; please contact: Dr James Chacko on (07) 4433 7721
Apply ONLINE: https://apply-springboard.health.qld.gov.au/jobs/QLD-TV688072
Applications close: Thursday, 13 August 2026
Unsolicited resumes from recruitment agencies will not be accepted.
Please download the Role Description from the 'Documents' section below for application/interview preparation and future reference.This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Australia License.
