Operator - Water Treatment (Several Positions Available)

Requisition Number: 748

Salary Range: $61,246.48 - $76,514.92 per annum (dependant on experience) + super and other allowances, as applicable.

Position Type: Full-Time Permanent 

Location: Various Water Treatment Plants 

Application Close Date: Sunday, 17 August 2025 at 11.30pm AEST

Join Our Team as a Water Treatment Operator – Be Part of Something Big in Cairns!

Cairns is growing, and so is the infrastructure that supports our community. As a Water Treatment Operator with Cairns Regional Council, you’ll have the opportunity to be part of something significant: the commissioning and operation of our new, state-of-the-art water treatment plant in Gordonvale. 

About the Role: 

You’ll be responsible for the safe and efficient operation, monitoring, and maintenance of our water treatment systems to ensure the highest water quality standards are met. Your work will directly contribute to protecting public health, supporting the environment, and future-proofing Cairns’ water supply.

This isn’t just another job — it’s a chance to contribute to one of the region’s largest and most important infrastructure projects. You’ll work with the latest technology, support the delivery of safe and reliable water to the community, and help set a new benchmark for water treatment in Far North Queensland.

What You’ll Do:

• Operate, monitor, and maintain water treatment facilities in line with safety and compliance standards
• Conduct laboratory testing and analyse data to maintain optimal water quality
• Troubleshoot, diagnose, and resolve issues with treatment systems and equipment
• Collaborate with a skilled and supportive team to innovate and improve processes

What We’re Looking For: 

Experience: Proven expertise in water treatment operations or a similar field.

Technical Skills: Knowledge of SCADA systems, treatment technologies, and regulatory standards.

Problem-Solver: Quick thinker with the ability to troubleshoot and resolve challenges effectively.

Team Player: Strong communicator who thrives in a collaborative environment

Commitment: A strong focus on safety, quality, and environmental responsibility.

Computer Skills: Competent with Microsoft Office programs.

What’s In It For You?

⚡ Enterprise Bargaining Agreement (EBA) currently under negotiation—a pay rise is in the pipeline.

🌤 Monday to Friday work with regular participation in an afterhours on-call roster

🕘 Flexible work arrangements including a 9-day fortnight

📍 Stable, locally based work in beautiful Cairns

👕 Uniforms provided

💉 3 hours paid time annually for your health check

🏊‍♂️ Fitness Passport—subsidised access to gyms, pools, and wellness facilities

🌴 Up to 5 weeks annual leave and 3 weeks personal leave

💰 Secure your future with up to 12% superannuation contribution

📈 Career progression opportunities into roles such as Senior Plant Operator and Team Leader

🛠️ A strong culture of safe work practices and a firm commitment to workplace safety

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