Principal House Officer - Orthopaedics

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 12 months.  

About your employer

The Townsville Hospital and Health Service offers a dynamic and diverse healthcare environment, delivering high-quality, patient-centred care across a broad range of clinical services. As a leading tertiary and referral service, you will have the opportunity to work alongside multidisciplinary teams, contribute to complex care, and engage in continuous professional development.

We are committed to supporting career growth through structured pathways, education and training opportunities, and strong partnerships with organisations such as James Cook University. Whether you are advancing your clinical expertise or developing leadership capability, you will be well supported to achieve your career goals.

Our organisation is underpinned by a collaborative and inclusive culture, offering the benefits of a regional setting alongside modern healthcare facilities. With flexible work options, a strong focus on wellbeing, and access to vibrant and diverse North Queensland communities, you can enjoy both professional fulfilment and a relaxed, high-quality lifestyle.

Role requirements

• Bachelor of Medicine / Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) or recognised equivalent qualification by the Australian Medical Council (AMC).

Please refer to the Role Description for further details.

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 guidelines.

Competitive salary and benefits:

We offer attractive remuneration packages and generous leave entitlements.

• Salary range: $5130.40 - $5634.80 p.f. (L4-L7)
• 4 weeks annual leave with 17.5% loading
• Locality allowance
• 12.75% employer contribution to superannuation
• Plus Salary Sacrificing options may be available

Apply now

Enquiries are welcome: Michellina Davies (07) 4433 3564

Apply ONLINE: https://apply-springboard.health.qld.gov.au/jobs/QLD-TV685923

Applications close:  Monday, 6 July 2026 

Unsolicited resumes from recruitment agencies will not be accepted.

Please download the Role Description for application/interview preparation and future reference.