Plumber (Temporary & Permanent Positions Available)

Requisition Number: 741

Salary Range: Base rate $64,772.76 per annum + applicable allowances ($71,175.05 per annum) + added value of overtime & penalty rates depending on work performed.

Position Type: Full-Time Permanent & Full-Time Temporary until June 2028 (Unless otherwise specified in your application, all applicants will be considered for both).

Location: Various locations (Stratford & Gordonvale, Cairns)

Application Close Date: Open-ended advertisement and may remain active for 6 to 12 months. Applications will be reviewed as they are received.

Turn Your Plumbing Passion into Progress with Cairns Regional Council!

Looking for more than just a job? Join a team where your skills make a real difference in your own community. We're seeking qualified plumbers who are ready to contribute to the future of water services across our region. Enjoy genuine work-life balance, work alongside experienced and supportive colleagues, and take pride in the essential services you help deliver every day. This isn’t just a job — it’s a secure, long-term opportunity with a strong total employment package and excellent lifestyle benefits.

About the roles: 

We’re hiring across several roles — whether you’re passionate about hands-on infrastructure or excited by cutting-edge tech, there’s a place for you in our team:

🔧 Water Reticulation Plumbers:

Play a vital role in maintaining and improving our water network. You'll work closely with experienced Team Leaders to install, repair, and upgrade essential infrastructure that keeps Cairns running smoothly. (Permanent / Temporary Roles Available)

💡 Smart Water Meter Plumbers

Join an innovative project that's shaping the future of water in Cairns! Help roll out advanced smart meters to homes and businesses, empowering residents to detect leaks early, reduce water waste, and better manage their usage. (Permanent Role Available)

Why You’ll Love Working with Us:

• Reliable Monday to Friday schedule with regular overtime and penalty rates to significantly boost your take-home pay.
• Guaranteed 9-day fortnight – more time off without sacrificing your income
• Uniforms supplied – no out-of-pocket workwear expenses.
• Council vehicle provided for daily duties – reduce your personal vehicle costs
• Cairns-based role – you're home every night with no travel away from family
• Additional allowances on top of your base rate for even more earning potential
• Excellent leave provisions, including:
•    - Up to 5 weeks of annual leave
•    - Up to 3 weeks of personal leave
•    - 3 hours of paid health check leave each year
• Up to 12% employer superannuation contributions – invest in your future
• Fitness Passport access – subsidised gym and pool memberships for you and your family
• Salary sacrifice options to help you make the most of your income
• Career progression pathways into roles like Technical Officer, Team Leader or Plumbing Inspector.
• Training and learning opportunities galore – grow your skills and qualifications through on-the-job experience, mentorship, and supported professional development.
• Strong commitment to safe work practices and a safety-first culture
• Employee recognition programs to celebrate your achievements!
• Live and work where others holiday – with the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest at your doorstep!
• New EBA due in July – exciting updates and benefits to further enhance your experience with us!

What we do - Our Purpose, Your Opportunity – 

Join a team that keeps Cairns flowing! At Cairns Regional Council, we provide essential water and wastewater services to over 160,000 locals, and we’re proud to manage one of the most vital and complex infrastructure networks in the region.

Get hands-on with an impressive range of assets:

🚰 1 major dam

🏞️ 68 reservoirs

⚙️ 180 wastewater pump stations

🌊 9 river intakes

🚿 49 water pump stations

🕳️ 23,611 manholes

🏭 2 water treatment plants

💧 6 wastewater treatment plants

🛠️ 3,300 km of underground pipelines

🔧 Keen to see what we’re working on? Visit our Works in progress page for a list of exciting water projects. Find out more about the Cairns Water Security Stage Project.

We are committed to:

• Fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment
• Embracing innovation and continuous improvement
• Cultivating a culture of professional growth and support

Now we want to hear about YOU!

Applications MUST be submitted online through the 'Apply' button and include a Cover Letter addressing the selection criteria and Resume outlining previous academic and work experience and if requested include attachments of the relevant qualifications and licenses, relating to the role.

For further information about this role please download the Position Description which includes the Key Duties, Responsibilities and Selection Criteria.

Council’s Recruitment Team can be contacted via:

Phone:(07) 4044 3310

Email: jobs@cairns.qld.gov.au

Website: Employment at Council | Cairns Regional Council