Water Treatment Technician
South Taranaki District Council
Hāwera, Taranaki Region, New Zealand · Full Time
Be the first to apply
- Experience
- Any
- Salary
- NZD 64,980 – NZD 82,600 / year
- Openings
- 1
- Posted
- 1 week ago
- Work mode
- In office
- Education
- National Certificate in Water Treatment - Site Operator and/or National Diploma in Water Treatment - Site Technician
- Eligibility
- Candidates who can legally work in New Zealand and hold, or are willing to obtain, a full or restricted clean valid driver’s licence may apply. The employer also welcomes applicants with lesser skills and experience, and can support relocation for suitable candidates.
- Resume
- Required to apply
Where you'll work
Job description
Role overview
South Taranaki District Council is seeking a Water Treatment Technician for a permanent full-time position based at the Kapuni Water Treatment Plant. This is a hands-on operational role with variety, responsibility, and technical problem-solving at its core, supporting the reliable delivery of safe drinking water to communities across the South Taranaki district.
About the district and organisation
The district offers a peaceful New Zealand lifestyle with strong access to outdoor recreation, affordable housing options for town, village, or rural living, and proximity to larger centres for commuting. The council describes itself as an energetic, progressive, values-led organisation focused on delivering quality services and facilities. It values a strong workplace culture, team engagement, a “can do” mindset, and a united, family-oriented environment.
Employee benefits include a recognised “best place to work” environment, access to a sick leave bank, and a retention incentive after five years of service. The organisation also supports professional growth and promotes innovation within a highly motivated team.
Role purpose
The position is responsible for operating and maintaining 10 water supplies across the district. The aim is to ensure a dependable supply of potable water in the right quantity and to the required quality for local communities. The work covers raw water sources, treatment plants, reservoirs, and related operational assets.
Key duties
- Operate and maintain raw water sources, treatment facilities, and reservoirs to keep systems performing effectively.
- Monitor and adjust sensors, instrumentation, and control systems.
- Check the working condition of pumps, motors, and automated valves.
- Assist with identifying faults and repairing electrical components.
- Support maintenance planning and carry out maintenance on raw water sources, intakes, mains, treatment plants, pumping stations, and reservoirs.
- Help develop and maintain sampling programmes for compliance purposes.
- Keep operational records and support compliance monitoring and reporting.
- Ensure all work aligns with Drinking Water Quality Assurance Rules, Drinking Water Standards, and relevant Resource Consents.
Working arrangements
This is a busy role and requires working in all weather conditions. The position involves flexible working hours, with a minimum commitment of 40 hours per week. It also includes participation in a roster system, monitoring duties, and after-hours callouts when required.
The remuneration package is described as attractive. Additional roster-related payments of approximately $10,000 to $12,000 are available depending on roster cycles.
Training and development
The council is committed to supporting training and development, including pathways toward the National Certificate in Water Treatment - Site Operator and/or a Diploma qualification for its technicians.
About you
The preferred candidate will be adaptable, practical, and comfortable using modern technology such as computers and instrumentation. You should be able to work across a broad range of operating and process systems and bring relevant knowledge or experience in the operation and maintenance of treatment facilities.
You will need a strong working knowledge of Drinking Water Standards, health and safety legislation and practices, and hydraulic, mechanical, instrumentation, and electrical systems. The role requires attention to best practice and a strong focus on the safety of others. Applicants with lesser skills and experience are still encouraged to apply.
Other requirements and conditions
A full or restricted clean valid driver’s licence is essential because the role includes roster participation and after-hours callouts. The council is an Accredited Employer and can offer practical support, some financial assistance, and employer sponsorship for a visa application for candidates relocating to the region.
Application details
Applicants should submit a covering letter explaining their relevant skills and experience, together with an up-to-date CV. Applications close at 4:00 pm on Sunday 26 July 2026, or earlier if a suitable candidate is appointed before then.
Compensation
The salary range for this role is $64,980 to $82,600 per year, with the starting level based on skills and experience and confirmed during interviews with shortlisted candidates.