Plant Operator - Utilities

Western Downs Regional Council; Western Downs Regional; Remote; AUD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

12% superannuation

Leave loading 17.5%

Relocation assistance up to $5,000

Uniforms and PPE provided

Salary packaging

Health plan access

Employee Assistance Program

Job summary

Western Downs Regional Council is seeking a dedicated Utilities Operator to assist in safe water, wastewater and gas network operations.

You will work with the Utilities Department to monitor, operate and maintain assets, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental requirements, and contribute to reliable service for the community.

A Certificate III in Water Industry Operations or equivalent is required, with driver licences and plant experience encouraged.

Qualifications

• Certificate III in Water Industry Operations or equivalent experience.
• WH&S Construction Safety Induction White Card.
• Open C Class Driver's Licence; Medium Rigid Licence desirable.
• Ability to read and implement traffic management plans and signs.
• Experience with major plant such as excavator, forklift or wheel-loader or willingness to obtain.
• Medical assessment may be required; fit-testing for respirators within 3 months; clean shaven required.

Responsibilities

• Assist Utilities Senior Network Operator to provide safe water, wastewater and gas services.
• Monitor, operate and maintain water, wastewater and gas networks.
• Uphold a safety-first culture and ensure environmental duty compliance.
• Identify hazards, report issues and maintain safe work practices.

Skills

Water ops

Safety awareness

Traffic management

Driver's licence

Education

Certificate III in Water Industry Operations

Equivalent experience

Tools

White Card

Open C Class Licence

Major Plant (excavator, forklift, wheel-loader)

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.

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 includes meeting statutory requirements for performance, safety and environmental management and ensuring customer service standards are achieved to a high standard. This role requires skills and knowledge necessary to monitor, operate and maintain water, wastewater and gas network operations primarily relating to earthmoving plant operation.

This role encompasses a range of duties and responsibilities as listed below as well as other duties as may be required. 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.

Growth Opportunities

We invest in your growth. Whether it’s skill development, mentorship, or career advancement, we’ve got you covered.

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:

https://www.westerndownsqueensland.com.au/

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 16 October 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.