Waste Recycling Operator

Role overview

City of Gold Coast is seeking a Waste Recycling Operator to support the daily running of its Waste and Recycling Centres. In this hands-on role, you will help keep the Gold Coast clean, safe and environmentally responsible by guiding site users, supporting recycling and resource recovery activities, and contributing to smooth centre operations.

Work pattern and pay

This is a full-time role with an 8-day fortnight arrangement, working 36 hours per week on a 4-days-on, 3-days-off roster. Weekend shifts form part of the normal schedule. The salary starts from $2,523 per fortnight, plus eligible weekend penalties and superannuation.

About the team

The Waste Resource and Recovery branch focuses on effective waste services, sustainability and environmental stewardship. The team works closely with residents and visitors to improve recycling results and ensure facilities remain safe, welcoming and well managed.

Key duties

• Manage and direct traffic movement within the site to maintain orderly and safe operations.
• Help customers with waste disposal processes and answer recycling-related questions.
• Keep the centre, surrounding grounds and facilities clean and well maintained.
• Follow operating procedures and safe work instructions to support a hazard-free workplace.
• Provide courteous and professional service to a wide range of people using the facility.
• Support team objectives and continuous improvement efforts.

What you will bring

The ideal candidate is comfortable working outdoors, values safe and tidy work areas, and enjoys creating a positive experience for the public. You should be reliable, flexible and ready to contribute to a team environment.

Required skills and qualities

• Clear communication and strong people skills.
• A customer-first mindset and willingness to assist members of the public.
• Ability to work in line with procedures and safety expectations.
• Good planning, organisation and time management.
• Physical capability for outdoor operational work.
• Positive attitude and collaborative approach.

Mandatory requirements

• Certificate II in Asset Management (Waste Management), or equivalent relevant knowledge.
• Unrestricted C class driver licence.
• Construction White Card (General Construction Induction).

Benefits

• 8-day fortnight working pattern.
• Access to more than 350 fitness facilities through Fitness Passport for you and your family.
• Four free confidential counselling sessions each year for you or your immediate family.
• Stable employment with job security.
• Professional, inclusive workplace with modern equipment.
• Free parking.
• Uniform, tools and personal protective equipment provided.
• Strong safety culture with safety as the top priority.
• Opportunities to earn more through overtime.
• Clear pathways for progression, leadership and specialist training.

Application process

Applicants must submit a resume and a cover letter of no more than two pages explaining how their skills, experience and personal attributes fit the role. Relevant qualifications may also be requested.

Selection checks

The recruitment process may include a one-way video interview, a face-to-face or virtual interview, reference checks, and additional checks such as police screening, employment history verification, qualification checks, pre-employment medical assessments, and drug and alcohol testing.

Additional information

Contact person: Anneliisa Tonisson

Contact email: atonisson@goldcoast.qld.gov.au

Closing date: 12 July 2026 at 11:59 pm AEDT

The organisation is committed to diversity, inclusion and high performance. Candidates from all backgrounds, experiences and identities are encouraged to apply, and support or workplace adjustments can be discussed during the recruitment process.

The Gold Coast is described as a city inspired by lifestyle and driven by opportunity, and the council states that it is the second largest council in Australia.