Bush Regeneration and Weed Control Officer

Rous County Council; Ballina Shire; On-site; AUD 67,000 - 79,000; Full time

Job summary

Rous County Council invites applications for a Bush Regeneration and Weed Control Officer based at Ballina, NSW. You will lead targeted weed control, deliver bush regeneration and habitat restoration, and support sustainable land management across public and private lands.

Ideal candidates bring proven experience in bush regeneration and safe operation of plant and equipment, including brush cutters and spraying gear, and a strong commitment to safety and collaboration with landholders and the

Qualifications

• Experience in bush regeneration, weed management and habitat restoration.
• Knowledge of safe use and application of herbicides.
• Ability to work independently and in a team.
• Experience operating and maintaining brush cutters, chainsaws and spraying equipment.
• Commitment to safe work practices and environmental outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Undertaking targeted weed control, containment and surveillance across lands.
• Carrying out bush regeneration works including site prep, planting and habitat restoration.
• Operating and maintaining small plant and equipment safely, and completing reports.
• Engaging with landholders, contractors and the community for sustainable land management.
• Planning and preparing work activities, including risk assessments and Safe Work Method Statements.

Skills

Bush regeneration

Weed management

Habitat restoration

Safe herbicide handling

Teamwork

Tools

Brush cutters

Chainsaws

Spraying equipment

Plant maintenance

Job description

Bush Regeneration and Weed Control Officer

Rous has entered an exciting new chapter, bringing all operations together under one roof at our brand-new, purpose-built facility in Ballina.

As a regional leader in water supply, flood mitigation, and environmental management, we’re proud to serve the Northern Rivers community through innovation, sustainability, and collaboration. Our new headquarters reflects our forward-thinking culture, a space designed to inspire connection, wellbeing, and excellence in everything we do.

We’re building a workplace where fresh ideas thrive, people feel valued, and every role contributes to a cleaner, greener, and more resilient future for our region.

If you’re looking to make a meaningful career move, one that balances professional growth with purpose and lifestyle, Rous is the place to do it.

We are seeking a dynamic and motivated individual with demonstrated experience in bush regeneration, weed management and the safe operation of plant and equipment. A focus for this role is undertaking targeted weed control and surveillance, delivering bush regeneration and habitat restoration activities, and supporting sustainable land management through effective field operations and engagement with landholders and the community.

About Rous

Our new site will bring together all Council operations under one roof, creating a dynamic, collaborative, and future-focused workplace. Located on a spacious 71-hectare site, the facility has been designed with staff wellbeing, sustainability, and operational excellence in mind. Rous hasan operational footprint covering 3,000km2. As a county council, we are responsible for providing three specific functions; bulk water supply, weed biosecurity and flood mitigation.

Our value proposition to you:

• Aprogressive and innovative organisation which is a leader in business improvement
• Work/life balance
• 76 hour/9-day fortnight - 26 days off a year
• Remuneration from $67,246.40 p.a.- $78,665.60 p.a.Plus statutory superannuation currently 12%
• Annual salary reviews and gazetted salary increases relevant to attractive award entitlements
• Work for the organisation that supplies the best tasting drinking water in New South Wales
• Structured training and development tailored to your interests
• Mentorship from experienced staff and culturally safe support
• Access to Flare Benefits – including lifestyle discounts and financial wellbeing tools
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – confidential support for you and your family
• Fitness Passport – affordable access to gyms and fitness centres across the region
• A workplace that values your voice, your culture, and your potential

Your value proposition to us:

• You have demonstrated experience in bush regeneration, weed management and habitat restoration activities.
• You have sound knowledge and practical experience in the safe use and application of herbicides.
• You work effectively both independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• You have experience operating and maintaing plant and equipment, including brush cutters, chainsaws and spraying equipment.
• You are committed to safe work practices and effective land management outcomes.

Your average workday will be kept busy by:

• Undertaking targeted weed control, containment and surveillance activities across public and private lands.
• Carrying out bush regeneration works, including site preparation, planting, weed removal, habitat restoration and site maintenance.
• Operating and maintaining small plant, tools and equipment safely, while completing required treatment and site activity reports.
• Supporting nursery operations, seed collection, plant propagation and landscape maintenance activities.
• Engaging with landholders, contractors and the community to support sustainable land management practices.
• Participating in the planning and preparation of work activities, including risk assessments and Safe Work Method Statements.

This is more than just a move, it’s a transformation.

Be part of a team that’s shaping the future of water and environmental services for our region.

Are you ready to catapult your career?

Note: Location subject to change as Council prepares to relocate, by 2026, some work sites to new premises at Gallans Rd, Ballina NSW 2478.

For any queries, please reach out to ***********@rous.nsw.gov.au

Rous County Council is committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity and diversity across our workforce. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply.