21st October, 2025
Treatment Operator Assistant
Full Time Permanent Position
The Opportunity
Following recent internal career advancements, a new opportunity has become available within our Water and Sewerage Treatment team. The Treatment Operator Assistant plays a vital role in supporting the effective operation, maintenance, and improvement of Council’s Water and Wastewater services by undertaking a variety of tasks, including the operation and upkeep of treatment plants and pumping stations, as well as performing general labouring and truck driving duties associated with the maintenance and construction of related infrastructure.
The role involves hands-on operation, monitoring, and maintenance of sewerage treatment plants and associated infrastructure, ensuring compliance with environmental and safety regulations while delivering high-quality outcomes for the community.
What Council Offers
- 76 hour fortnight with roster variations depending on the position, worked over an 8-day fortnight.
- Up to 12.5% Superannuation employer contribution for contributing members
- 5 weeks annual leave plus 17.5% annual leave loading
- 15 days paid sick/carers leave
- Salary Packaging options
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Accredited Mental Health First Aid Officers
- Annual Flu vaccinations + Skin Checks
- Corporate Uniforms (annual allowance) and PPE supplied
General Salary Information This position is classified as Level 4C under the
Hinchinbrook Shire Council Local Government Officers (Stream B) Certified Agreement.
The salary is $66,003 per annum, plus superannuation. $33.40252 per hour.
Our Ideal Candidate We’re seeking a dependable and safety-focused individual with practical experience in labouring and operating machinery. You possess a strong work ethic and a commitment to delivering high-quality services to the community. You’re comfortable working with live sewerage systems, hold or are willing to work towards relevant certifications, and have a strong sense of teamwork and responsibility. Basic computer skills, good communication, and a willingness to be part of an on-call roster are essential. A Certificate III in Water and Wastewater Operations and familiarity with SCADA systems be highly regarded.
Key Responsibilities - Support the operation and routine maintenance of water and wastewater treatment plants and associated pumping stations;
- Safely work with live sewerage systems, following all relevant procedures and safety protocols;
- Operate plant and equipment as required, holding or working towards the necessary Plant Operators Certificates of Competency;
- Perform truck driving and general labouring duties associated with the maintenance and construction of water and wastewater infrastructure;
- Provide support in monitoring SCADA systems and assist in responding to alarms and operational data;
- Assist in conducting routine and regulatory wastewater testing under supervision; and
- Assist in maintaining compliance with Environmental Licence conditions and Council’s operational standards;
See the Position Description for a more extensive list of key responsibilities.
Working Conditions and Physical Requirements Applicants must be able to safely and competently carry out strenuous labouring and manual handling activities. The position will require the employee to carry out physical tasks which may include manual handling, repetitive bending, kneeling, twisting and/or squatting, lifting, working in confined spaces, and working at heights.
Key Selection Criteria If our values resonate with you ‘Opportunity, Respect, Strength and Accountability’ and you possess the following qualifications and experience, read below about how to apply:
Mandatory: - Ability to work with live sewerage;
- Plant Operators Certificates of Competency for the types and classes of plant utilised within this position;
- Ability to participate in the after-hours on call roster on a regular basis;
- QLD Construction Induction White Card;
- Advanced First Aid (or ability to attain);
- Certificate of competency for Confined Space Entry (or ability to attain);
- Chemical Handling License (or ability to attain);
- Current Queensland ‘MR’ Class licence (or ability to attain); and
- Have appropriate immunization (Hepatitis A, B, Tetanus, Japanese Encephalitis Virus or willing to receive immunisation)
Desirable: - Certificate III in Water Treatment Plant Operations and Wastewater Industry Operations;
- Basic understanding of the SCADA systems;
- Doggers ticket (or willing to obtain);
- Working with heights (or willing to obtain); and
- Asbestos Removal Qualification.
How to Apply
To apply, submit your application online by clicking 'Apply For Job' and follow the steps. Please provide:
- A current resume
- A cover letter addressing the “Our Ideal Candidate” section (max. 2 pages).
Applications close on ‘Wednesday 5 November 2025 at 5:00pm AEST’
Applications that do not meet the above requirements may not be shortlisted. The advertisement will be closed either when a successful applicant is identified or on the application close date, whichever is sooner.
For More Information: Thank you for your consideration and interest in this position. For a confidential discussion, contact Daniel Gatto – Utility Services Manager on 07 4776 4724.
The Selection Process We welcome candidates to inform us of any adjustments they may need to ensure a supportive and inclusive recruitment experience and workplace environment. Hinchinbrook Shire Council is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people and disadvantaged job seekers to apply.
Celebrating the rich diversity of our community, we are dedicated to attracting and employing people who reflect the community we serve. We value and respect the unique contributions of our employees and are committed to fostering an inclusive and safe workplace where everyone is supported to reach their full potential.
Please note that only individuals with the right to work in Australia are eligible to apply. As part of the recruitment process, the preferred candidate will need to undertake a National Police Check and pre-employment medical assessments, which may include drug and alcohol testing, to confirm their ability to meet the role's inherent requirements.
Our Council Hinchinbrook Shire Council is proud to be one of the largest employers in the region, with a diverse team of around 200 people working across technical, administrative, operational, and senior management roles. We’re committed to creating a fair, flexible, and supportive workplace where our staff can thrive while enjoying the unique attractions and vibrant community life of Hinchinbrook. With benefits such as a nine-day fortnight for most roles, generous superannuation, and leave entitlements, we offer opportunities to grow your career while embracing the lifestyle you love. By joining us, you’ll be part of an organisation that values its people, promotes collaboration, and strives to make a lasting, positive impact on the Hinchinbrook community.
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