Description

• Only Tweed Shire Council Employees are eligible to apply for this Expression of Interest.
• Spinifex Recruiting employees (labour hire staff) are not eligible to apply.

Applications MUST be submitted via the Scout application form below; paper copies will not be accepted.

The Assistant Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator will undertake a planned and supported pathway to obtain qualifications and competence in this stimulating and rewarding role and involves the completion of on-the-job training and tertiary studies (a Certificate III in Water Operations). Course fees will be funded by Council.

The position is suitable to those who enjoy a diversity of work in both outdoor and office environments combining computer-based and active work activities.

• Support the operation and maintenance of Tweed Shire Council wastewater treatment plants to maximise plant life, performance and EPA licence compliance.
• Complete plant data entry, learn SCADA control systems, and interpret plant trends to help monitor performance and optimise solids and nutrient removal.
• Undertake laboratory testing, assist with analysing results, and learn how treatment processes affect environmental outcomes and compliance requirements.
• Develop knowledge of mechanical-biological wastewater treatment processes, including microbiology, disinfection and how bacteria influence nutrient removal in bio-reactors.
• Participate in a structured training pathway, including a Certificate III in Water Operations - Wastewater Treatment, and in an on-call roster to provide weekend and after-hours operational support.

• a base salary ranging from $61,402 per annum with competency-based increments up to $70,133 per annum, plus 12% super (This salary includes the new award increase coming into effect at the first pay circle in July 2026)
• a maximum-term contract up to 12 months, with the possibility of extension or permanency subject to performance, funding and operational need
• 76-hour, 9 day fortnight
• training and development opportunities
• flexible work options for a healthy work/life balance

• Undertake supported on-the-job training and external studies for a Certificate III in Wastewater Treatment or an equivalent qualification.
• A current Driver’s Licence (Car).
• Basic understanding of the function of a Water Treatment Plant.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a small team environment.
• Demonstrated ability to work responsibly and independently on tasks.
• Availability to participate in a 24-hour on-call roster, with a requirement to live within 30 minutes of the Banora Point, Murwillumbah, or Kingscliff treatment plants for timely emergency response.

This position in based in Banora Point and can be directed to work from any Council work site.

Confidential enquiries can be directed to Bing Lu, Engineer - Water & Wastewater – Operations (02) 6670 2647

Friday 03 July 2026 at 12 noon sharp (NSW time).

Click here to view the Position Description

Click here for more information on the Recruitment Process

Tweed Shire Council conducts pre-employment assessments as part of its recruitment process. Click here for more information.

Click here to view our Values

This position is identified as at risk of contracting vaccine-preventable/manageable diseases and as a consequence impacted employees are strongly recommended to participate in Council’s workplace vaccination program.

You must use your own email address, and not one used previously by another person that has applied for a position with council.

Once you start your online application, you cannot save and return to it later.

1. Please consider the below questions in relation to the position, and if interested complete the application form.
2. A current resume is required.
3. Applicants may be interviewed.
4. Review your expression of interest to confirm everything is correct. Click 'Confirm' to submit your application.

You may wish to prepare your responses in a Word document. You can then COPY and PASTE your answers from Word into the below fields.

• What interests you about the Assistant Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator - expression of interest?
• What interests you about working in the water industry? Are you curious about how water is managed, treated, or delivered to communities?
• What do you understand about the responsibilities and commitment involved in this structured training pathway?
• Describe your understanding of the function of a Water Treatment Plant.