Range Operator

First Nations Jobs; Wagga Wagga; On-site; AUD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Downer is seeking a Range Operator to maintain grounds, vegetation and related facilities in support of Defence readiness. The role involves mowing, trimming, weed control and operating grounds equipment, with occasional travel to Wirlinga for operational support.

You will also support Range and fire-response capabilities and complete routine inspections and reporting on estate conditions, contributing to national defence infrastructure services.

Qualifications

• Experience in grounds maintenance, landscaping, horticulture or vegetation management.
• Current unrestricted driver's licence and the ability to obtain Defence security clearance, with Australian citizenship mandatory.
• Willingness to complete and maintain the required Range, fire-responder and Public Safety training.

Responsibilities

• Maintain grounds through mowing, slashing, trimming and general upkeep.
• Undertake weed control and vegetation management activities.
• Operate plant, vehicles and grounds-maintenance equipment safely.
• Complete routine estate inspections, minor maintenance and reporting.
• Maintain Range and first fire response capability, including occasional travel to Wirlinga for operational support.

Skills

Grounds maintenance

Landscaping

Horticulture

Vegetation management

Driver's licence

Job description

While employed as a Range Operator, most of your day-to-day work will currently involve grounds and vegetation maintenance. You'll also maintain the training and capability required to support Range activities and first fire response, including occasional travel to Wirlinga. A work vehicle will be provided for required travel.

What you'll do

• Maintain grounds through mowing, slashing, trimming and general upkeep
• Undertake weed control and vegetation management activities
• Operate plant, vehicles and grounds-maintenance equipment safely
• Complete routine estate inspections, minor maintenance and reporting
• Maintain Range and first fire response capability, including occasional travel to Wirlinga for operational support

What you'll bring

• Experience in grounds maintenance, landscaping, horticulture or vegetation management
• Confidence operating plant, machinery or grounds-maintenance equipment
• A practical, safety-focused approach and willingness to work outdoors in varying conditions
• A current unrestricted driver's licence and the ability to obtain a Defence security clearance, with Australian citizenship mandatory
• Willingness to complete and maintain the required Range, fire response and Public Safety training

A Medium Rigid licence, Range Induction training, fire-response competencies, chemical application qualifications or relevant plant tickets will be highly regarded but are not essential from day one. Downer can offer training and certification in Fire Response; Chainsaw Operators Licence or Certificate; and ChemCert certificate for the right candidate.

Why Downer?

At Downer, your work makes a difference. You'll help maintain the land and facilities that support Defence capability, as part of a team delivering services of national importance.

You can expect:

• Support you can count on: A safety-first team where people look out for one another
• Be part of something big: Meaningful work supporting the readiness of the Defence estate
• Shape your future: Training and development to build your grounds, Range and fire-response capabilities
• Access to Perks@Downer and everyday employee savings
• Confidential support through Downer's Employee Assistance Program.

About Downer

Downer plans, creates and sustains essential public services across Australia and New Zealand. Our Base and Estate Management team supports the Australian Defence Force by delivering the services and infrastructure Defence communities rely on.

Everything you bring to Downer makes a difference that matters. In return, we'll support you to grow, contribute to meaningful work and shape a future that works for you.

Downer is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences, including women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, veterans, people with disability and neurodivergent people.

Even if you don't meet every listed requirement, we encourage you to apply if you have relevant grounds, vegetation, plant operation or maintenance experience and are willing to develop the required Range capability.

As a WORK180 Endorsed Employer, Downer supports inclusive leadership and equitable access to opportunity. If you require adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.