Trainee Water Operations

Careers at Council; Port Macquarie; On-site; AUD 21,000 - 38,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-the-job technical training

Fortnightly RDO

PPE provided

Gym membership discount

Career progression opportunities

Annual salary increases

Salary packaging options

Awards and recognition

Job summary

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council is offering a full-time Water Operations Trainee position. This two-year traineeship provides hands-on experience in water and wastewater infrastructure while you study for a Certificate III in Water Industry Operations at local TAFE with paid study time.

You will work on plants, pump stations, network maintenance and gain skills for a future in utilities or local government.

Qualifications

• Willing to learn on the job and ask questions.
• Team players with strong communication skills (both written and verbal).
• Safety-conscious, committed to working safely for yourself and others.
• Able to commit to study requirements and complete training in a timely and organised way.
• Hold a current general construction induction card (white card) or ability to obtain prior to commencement.

Responsibilities

• Water and wastewater treatment plants.
• Pump station maintenance.
• Wastewater manhole inspections.
• Network maintenance and repair.
• Dam and catchment surveillance.

Skills

Willingness to learn

Team player

Strong communication

Safety-conscious

Education

Certificate III in Water Industry Operations

Job description

At PMHC every employee plays a part in ensuring we work together to achieve positive outcomes for our community. To help us achieve this we are seeking applications from enthusiastic and proactive individuals wishing to commence a rewarding career as a Water Operations Trainee. This full-time, two-year traineeship offers hands‑on experience working on critical water and wastewater infrastructure, while you complete your Certificate III in Water Industry Operations with paid study time at Wauchope or Taree TAFE (location confirmed closer to commencement).

We have two Water Operations Trainee positions available, with one position identified for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples.

As part of our team, you’ll gain practical skills working on:

• Water and wastewater treatment plants
• Pump station maintenance
• Wastewater manhole inspections
• Network Maintenance and Repair
• Dam and catchment surveillance

You’ll work across a diverse range of water infrastructure projects that directly support the health, safety and wellbeing of our community, developing specialised industry skills and laying the foundation for a career in utilities or local government.

We are looking for individuals who are:

• Willing to learn on the job and ask questions
• Interested in maintaining and improving community facilities
• Team players with strong communication skills (both written and verbal)
• Safety-conscious, committed to working safely for yourself and others
• Able to commit to study requirements and complete training in a timely and organised way
• Able to comply with uniform and PPE requirements, including while at TAFE
• Hold a current general construction induction card (white card) or ability to obtain prior to commencement

Whether you’re a school leaver, returning to the workforce, or looking to change careers, this traineeship is a fantastic way to build a long‑term career.

Remuneration and Benefits

Employment type: Full-time, two-year traineeship with paid study time (38 hours per week with a 9-day fortnight)

Salary (exclusive of super): Starting from $454.40 to $838.00 per week depending on school level obtained and experience

• On-the-job technical training and development
• Fortnightly Rostered Day Off (RDO)
• PPE provided
• Discounted gym membership through membership to Fitness Passport
• Genuine career progression opportunities within Council
• Annual salary increase as per the Local Government (State) Award 2026 plus annual salary review
• Salary packaging options available through Salary Packaging Australia and Maxxia
• Recognition through our annual awards ceremony celebrating and rewarding staff achievements

Why join us?

Get paid while you earn your Certificate III in Water Industry Operations. Learning on the job with experienced tradespeople working on real, important projects that make a difference in your community. Enjoy a great work‑life balance, competitive pay, study support, and genuine career opportunities. Start your future with Port Macquarie Hastings Council today!

You must be an Australian/NZ citizen or an Australian Permanent Resident; no visa or work permit support can be provided for this role.

Questions?

If you have any questions about this opportunity or the role, please contact Brent Parker, Group Manager Utilities Operations on 02 6581 8772.

Following the application period, the recruitment process will include:

• Assessment Centre: 10 November 2026
• Interviews: 12 November 2026
• Employment Commences: 12 January 2027

Pre-employment checks for these roles will include; Reference Checks; National Criminal Police Check; Medical Assessment; White Card; Drivers Licence (red P’s)

PMHC's recruitment notification process is primarily via system generated emails. Please ensure your email is correct before submitting an application to avoid missing crucial updates and outcomes. Email communication notifications are used for but not limited to: application received, interview booking tools, confirmation of interview, request for references/more information, delay notifications, testing/assessments (aptitude/psychometric/industry specific) and application outcomes (unsuccessful before or after interview).

Port Macquarie Hastings Council adheres to the principles of a child safe organisation and is committed to the care and protection of all children and young people.

At Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, we believe that diversity makes us stronger. We are committed to creating a workplace that reflects the vibrant community we serve—where everyone feels welcome, respected, and empowered to thrive. We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, veterans, people with disabilities, culturally and linguistically diverse individuals, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process or in the workplace, please contact us at ****@pmhc.nsw.gov.au .We’re here to support you every step of the way.