Network Operator's Assistant Trainee

Western Downs Regional Council; Western Downs Regional; On-site; AUD 50,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Uniforms and PPE provided

Online training

Mentorship

9 day fortnight or compressed roster

Corporate health plans

Health and wellbeing programs

Salary packaging available

Job summary

Western Downs Regional Council in Chinchilla is offering a Network Operator's Assistant Trainee position. You will gain hands-on experience while studying for a Certificate III in Water Industry Operations (Network) and contribute to water and wastewater networks under guidance.

The role is full-time and fixed-term for 24 months, with mentoring, on-the-job training, and a supportive team focused on service to the community.

Qualifications

• Year 12 certificate or equivalent experience.
• Desirable: Certificate III in Water Industry Operations (Network) within 24 months.
• Basic understanding of water operations preferred.
• Current C Class licence and White Card desirable.
• Pre-employment medical and literacy/numeracy tests may be required.

Responsibilities

• Assist with daily operation and maintenance of water/wastewater assets.
• Perform field work and operate civil equipment as directed.
• Undertake manual handling tasks and labouring duties.
• Provide courteous customer service to residents and customers.
• Work in line with WH&S obligations and responsibilities.

Skills

Ability to work independently

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Education

Year 12 Certificate

Certificate III in Water Industry Operations (Network)

Tools

C Class Licence

White Card (OH&S)

Job description

Western Downs Regional Council has been awarded the Queensland Large Employer of the Year for the Darling Downs South West Region for 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024.

Be part of a team that make a real difference within the communities we serve. Our mission drives us, and we want you to be part of the journey.

Want to obtain a qualification and get paid from day one? Council is looking for our next cohort of motivated Trainees and Apprentices to join their team!

Job No: 1848

Level: WDRC Operational Staff Certified Agreement 2026 Grade 4, Level 1

Status: Full Time, Fixed Term (24 Months)

Experience Western Downs It's the people that make it!

The Opportunity

Hands-On Experience:Gain practical skills and real-world knowledge while working alongside experienced professionals.

Career Development:We invest in your growth through mentorship, workshops, and ongoing training.

Impactful Work:Contribute to projects that directly benefit our residents and communities.

Inclusive Environment:Join a diverse team committed to equity, collaboration, and positive change.

Council are seeking driven, friendly, passionate and confident individuals, to join our team as a Network Operator's Assistant Trainee. You will gain hands-on experience while completing a Certificate III in Water Industry Operations (Network).

Based at Chinchilla,the successful applicant will be:

Assisting with daily operation and maintenance of water and wastewater pipelines, bores, sewer pump stations and associated infrastructure, to meet required standards and timeframes;

Field work and operating civil machinery within the water and wastewater network teams, including Council plumbers;

Undertaking manual handling / labouring duties as directed by the Supervisor;

Providing efficient and courteous customer service to Council’s customers;

Carrying out work in accordance with Council's WH&S obligations and responsibilities.

About yourself

A person in this position will:

Need to hold a relevant Year 12 Certificate in Education OR be able todemonstrateequivalent related experience. It is also highly desirable for the successful candidate to have a basic understanding of theWater Operations Industry;

Berequiredtocomplete a Certificate III in Water IndustryOperations (Network) within 24 months;

Hold a current Queensland C Class Licence(is desirable);

Hold an OH&S Construction Induction White Card or be willing to obtain anOH&S ConstructionInduction White Card prior to commencement;

Berequiredto undertake a Pre-Employment Medical;

Applicants maybe requiredto undertake pre-employment literacy and numeracy tests;

Have the ability to work independently and in a team environment to work towards and achieve team objectives; and

The ability to multi-task while maintaining high attention to detail.

What are the benefits for you?

Paid full time employment for the duration of your qualification (2 years);

Nationally recognised qualificationpaid for by Council;

Uniforms and PPE provided;

Online training and or regular face to face trainer contact;

Hands on experience within a diverse organisation;

Experienced supervisors to coach, mentor, and assist you to be successful;

Work/life balance with 9 day fortnight or compressed roster;

Access to Corporate Health Plans;

Health and Wellbeing Programs;

Salary Packaging Available - e.g. Motor Vehicles, Superannuation, Remote Area Housing (Rent), Fuel, Gas and Electricity; and

Applications close at Midnight AEST on Monday 9 November 2026.

Additional Information

The recruitment process may include candidates undergoing a pre-employment medical including drug and alcohol testing.

WDRC reserves the right to close or withdraw vacancies before the advertised closing date, or extend the closing date, without prior notice.

Applicants must have the legal right to work in Australia. Applicants who hold a valid Australian work visa are encouraged to apply.

Living & Working in the Western Downs

If you are looking to join an innovative and dynamic company, that provides staff with a work life balance and opportunities for growth with state of the art mentoring from professionals within its team, this may be the role for you. Be part of the community you serve. TOGETHER WE MAKE A REAL DIFFERENCE.