Field Operator (Parks Maintenance)

Clarence Valley Council; Yamba; On-site; AUD 65,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

9-day fortnight

Fitness Passport

Leadership programs

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Long service leave after 5 years

Job summary

Clarence Valley Council is seeking a hands-on Open Spaces worker to maintain and enhance parks, gardens and public spaces in Yamba or South Grafton. You’ll contribute to a busy team across trees, lawns and amenities, with involvement in minor construction projects.

The role requires horticulture certification or equivalent experience, plant equipment know-how, a valid NSW WHS induction and a current driver’s licence. A safety-first approach is essential.

Qualifications

• Certificate II or above in Horticulture or equivalent industry experience.
• Experience in operating and maintaining small/medium plant equipment.
• Experience in grounds maintenance and minor tree pruning.
• Current Driver’s Licence and WHS Construction Induction Training Certificate (NSW).
• Safety-first approach with a strong WHS commitment.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and enhance the parks, gardens and public spaces.
• Operate and maintain small/medium plant equipment and assist with gardens, trees and lawns.
• Contribute to minor construction projects and amenities cleaning as required.

Skills

Certificate II or above Horticulture

Plant equipment operation

Grounds maintenance

Driver’s Licence

WHS Training Certificate NSW

Education

Certificate II or above in Horticulture

Job description

Working at Clarence Valley Council

Our goal is simple. We want Clarence Valley to be a community full of opportunity. We know that starts with our people.

Located in the heart of the Northern Rivers, the Clarence Valley is a special place to call home. With over 100km of stunning beaches, national parks and 60 unique towns and villages to enjoy, we’ve got a massive backyard to look after.

As one of the region’s largest employers, we provide the job security and career opportunities of a large organisation, with the warmth and connection of a local team.

We’re currently working on some big plans to make the Valley even better by 2036, and we need people who are ready to roll up their sleeves and be a part of something truly important.

Your opportunity

Passionate about gardening and the outdoors? We’re recruiting for TWO roles!

Join one of our Open Spaces teams in either Yamba or South Grafton and play a hands on role in maintaining and enhancing the parks, gardens and public spaces that make our communities great.

You’ll work across a diverse range of activities including trees, lawns, gardens, amenities cleaning and minor construction projects, helping keep our open spaces healthy, vibrant and welcoming.

Whether you’re based in Yamba or South Grafton, you’ll enjoy a rewarding outdoor role, work alongside a supportive team and make a positive difference to the communities you live and work in.

What you’ll bring

To thrive in this role, you’ll bring:

• Certificate II or above Horticulture; or equivalent relevant industry experience
• Experience in the operation and maintenance of small and medium plant equipment, experience in grounds maintenance and minor tree pruning activities
• A current Driver’s Licence and WHS Construction Induction Training Certificate (NSW)
• A safety-first approach, with a strong commitment to following WHS standards.

Applications close at 11:30pm Tuesday 3 November 2026

Contact

To discuss this opportunity further, you can contact the hiring manager below for a confidential chat: Contact Robin McLennan, Coordinator Open Spaces Operations on 02 6643 0***

Additional Details

Other important information

All successful candidates will be required to undertake a drug and alcohol screening and a pre-employment medical check may be required.

This position is located at Council's Rushforth Road Works Depot and Yamba, however, this may change should business needs identify other work locations to be more appropriate to deliver our services in the future.

Diversity & Inclusion

At Clarence Valley Council, we believe our diversity is our strength. We strongly encourage applications from First Nations people, veterans, and individuals of all backgrounds and abilities.

Why our team chooses Clarence Valley Council

See the tangible results of your efforts in the streets, parks and infrastructure used by you and your loved ones every day.

We invest in your potential through leadership programs, internal secondments and specialised training to keep your career moving forward.

We empower you to lead a fulfilling life where family comes first - backed by a culture that genuinely respects your time.

We believe you shouldn’t have to choose between an impactful career and a relaxed, coastal lifestyle. That’s why we provide plenty of rewarding benefits so you can enjoy work and play in equal measure.

Benefits

You’ll also be rewarded with a range of benefits

• Our popular 9-day fortnight offering gives you more time to spend with the people who matter most.
• Our Fitness Passport program provides discounted gym and pool access, not just for you, but for your entire household.
• Leadership programs, study assistance, internal secondments and on-the-job training to invest in your potential.
• Your wellbeing is always a priority - we have a zero-harm commitment, and you can access 24/7 confidential support through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Long service leave after 5 years employment.