We are seeking either a qualified and experienced Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator or an Assistant Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator with a passion for public health and protecting our environment. We welcome dedicated people that want to learn and work in a supportive team environment.
About the role:
The successful candidate will be appointed to the position based on experience and existing skills, or their potential to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills as an Assistant in our supported career pathway program. In addressing the selection criteria, applicants are to clearly indicate for which position (Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator or Assistant Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator) they are applying.
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.
- Work as part of a dedicated team responsible for the operation and maintenance of one or more of Council’s Wastewater Treatment Plants.
- Maintain, operate and carry out repairs on treatment plant infrastructure to ensure compliance with current licence requirements and adopted operating procedures.
- Support or lead coordination of staff and resources as needed to optimise plant performance and meet operational objectives.
- Utilise your experience, process monitoring skills and ability to work independently to maintain efficient plant performance and produce high-quality effluent.
- Participate in an on-call roster to provide weekend and after-hours operational support.
What's on offer:
- Job Grade 3A (Assistant Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator): a base salary ranging from $59,040 per annum with competency-based increments up to $67,436 per annum, plus 12% super
- Job Grade 4 (Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator): a base salary ranging from $62,124 per annum with competency-based increments up to $71,178 per annum, plus 12% super
- 76 hour, 9 day fortnight
- training and development opportunities
- flexible work options for a healthy work/life balance
- generous employment conditions (we have too many to list - click here for more).
We are seeking:
Assistant Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator:
- 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.
Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator:
- A qualified individual with a Certificate III in Wastewater Treatment or an equivalent qualification
- A current Driver’s Licence (Car).
- Proven experience operating modern activated sludge Wastewater Treatment Plants, including chemical dosing, process control, and mechanical maintenance.
- Strong problem-solving abilities with demonstrated capability to manage plant changes and respond effectively to operational challenges.
- Proficiency in SCADA systems and Microsoft Excel, with sound oral and written communication skills to support daily operations and reporting.
- Solid understanding of Occupational Health and Safety and Environmental legislative requirements, including compliance with Environmental Protection Licences relevant to wastewater treatment operations.
- 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.
About us:
- Located on the picturesque far North Coast of NSW, bordering the Gold Coast.
- The Tweed is a vibrant, diverse location offering a lifestyle near the water, in a rainforest or on a farm.
- Tweed Shire Council is committed to employment equity and diversity and encourages applications from people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds in both traditional and non-traditional roles. We provide workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options.
- Join an employer of choice. Professionals Australia (Local Government Engineers’ Association) has named Council the 2021 Employer of Choice for our great employment practices within NSW local government.
Where it's located:
This position is based in Murwillumbah and can be directed to work from any Council work site.
Position closes:
Friday 6 February 2026 at 12 noon sharp (NSW time). Late applications will not be permitted.
SK97188A
OFFICE USE ONLY