Plant Operator

Western Downs Regional Council; Chinchilla; On-site; AUD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Work / life balance

12% Superannuation

Corporate Health Plan

Health & Wellbeing program

Employee Assistance Program

Job summary

Western Downs Regional Council invites applications for a permanent, full-time role within the Utilities Department. The position supports the Senior Network Operator to deliver safe water, wastewater and gas services across the Western Downs, with responsibilities spanning safety, environmental duties, and sign/traffic plan implementation.

The ideal candidate will hold a Certificate III in Water Industry Operations or equivalent experience, possess White Card and relevant driving licences, and

Qualifications

• Certificate III in Water Industry Operations or equivalent experience.
• WH&S Construction Safety Induction White Card and C Class Licence.
• Ability to read, interpret and implement traffic management plans; operate major plant.

Responsibilities

• Uphold a Safety-First Culture in all workplace activities.
• Identify, report and address hazards; ensure environmental duties are met.

Skills

Safety-first culture

Reading traffic management plans

Respirator fit testing

Hazard identification and reporting

Education

Certificate III in Water Industry Operations

Tools

White Card

Open C Class Licence

Medium Rigid Licence

Major Plant competency (excavator, forklift, wheel-loader)

Job description

Level: WDRC Operational Staff Certified Agreement 2023, Level 5 External

Status: Permanent, Full-Time

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.

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

The Opportunity

Operating from within the Utilities Department, this role will assist the Utilities Senior Network Operator to provide a range of services that support the provision of safe water, wastewater and gas services across the Western Downs. This role encompasses a range of duties and responsibilities which may vary as directed by Council. The key ones include:

• Upholding a Safety-First Culture in all workplace activities.
• Ability to carry out work in accordance with workplace health and safety obligations by proactively identifying, reporting and effectively addressing hazards and issues.
• Ability to carry out work in accordance with general environmental duty by identifying, reporting and minimizing activity that has the potential to cause environmental harm.

About Yourself

A person in this position will need to hold a Certificate III in Water Industry Operations, OR be able to demonstrate equivalent related experience. It is also highly desirable for the successful candidate to have

• WH&S Construction Safety Induction White Card
• Open C Class Driver's Licence
• Ability to read, interpret, and implement traffic management plans and install/remove signs and devices in accordance with procedures.
• Other relevant competencies such as confined space, working at heights, trench shoring, MUTCD level 2, backhoe, skid steer etc, or ability and willingness to obtain.
• Medium Rigid Class Driver’s Licence and nationally recognised competency in Major Plant such as excavator, forklift or wheel-loader or ability to attain within 12 months.
• A medical assessment may be required to determine physical fitness for the role.
• There is a requirement to be 'fit tested' for tight fitting respirators within the first three (3) months of employment, and ability to maintain compliance with 'fit-testing' standards to meet operational needs. This includes being clean-shaven or having facial hair that does not interfere with fitting surfaces and the respirator valve.

The Benefits of Working for WDRC:

• Work / life balance

  We understand the importance of balance. Enjoy flexible work arrangements and wellness programs designed to keep you at your best.

• Superannuation

  In addition to your annual salary, Council will contribute twelve (12) per cent, including the superannuation guarantee contribution.

• Access to Corporate Health Plan

  Take care of yourself and join one of our Corporate Health Plans to improve life.

• Health & Wellbeing program and Mental Health Support

  Change your lifestyle and live better with healthy ideas. Be your best possible self with provided support and information.

• Access to free Employee Assistance Program & confidential counselling

  Reach out to someone confidentially if you are experiencing any concerns or problems.

• Salary Packaging Available

  Restructure your salary to work for you to pay for everyday living expenses such as Motor Vehicles, Superannuation, Remote Area Housing (Rent), Fuel, Gas and Electricity.

• Allowances Available (if applicable)

  Allowances such as Locality Allowance may be applicable to your position.

• Leave Loading

  You will receive 17.5% leave loading on top of your base rate of pay, while you are on Annual Leave.

• Uniforms and PPE

  Uniforms and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) provided.

• Job security in a local government position

  Feel secure working for an organisation who believes in strong foundations of respect, balance, communication, teamwork, accountability and leadership.

• Relocation Assistance

  Relocation assistance of up to $5,000 may be provided to the preferred candidate if relocating to the Western Downs Region.

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.

Applications close at Midnight AEST on Friday 28 August 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.