Plant Operator - Aquatic Weed Management

Role Overview

The Townsville City Council is seeking a dedicated Plant Operator to manage aquatic weed control operations. This permanent full-time role operates on a 9-day fortnight schedule (38 hours per week) based in Townsville, Queensland. The position primarily involves operating specialized equipment such as the aquatic weed harvester and marine support vessel to conduct scheduled maintenance of aquatic weeds. The operator is responsible for adhering to delivery schedules, ensuring technical and budget compliance, maintaining robust worksite safety, and engaging effectively with stakeholders during operations.

Additional Duties

Besides aquatic weed tasks, the operator will rotate into environmental restoration and maintenance projects. These related duties involve manual labor in parks, open spaces, and natural environments especially when aquatic weed operations are limited due to lower demand or adverse weather conditions.

Candidate Profile

We are looking for a motivated and skilled individual passionate about community service and environmental management. Mandatory credentials include:

• Certificate III in Maritime Operations Master (up to 24 meters near coastal)
• Coxswain Grade 2 near coastal commercial operator’s licence
• Marine Radio Operators Certificate of Proficiency
• Class C manual driver’s licence

Preferred qualifications and certifications include:

• Certificate III in Conservation and Land Management or equivalent experience
• Construction Safety (White Card) valid for Queensland (30215 QLD)
• Agricultural Chemical Distribution Certificate (ACDC)
• Experience with inspection and cleaning machinery for plant, animal, and soil contaminants
• First Aid certification

Applicants must maintain all relevant licences and competencies for operating specified machinery and demonstrate knowledge of Queensland government legislation concerning invasive plant species management.

Skills and Compliance

The role requires familiarity with Workplace Health & Safety legislation, advisory standards, industry codes of practice, and associated legal guidelines. Proficiency in using computerized tools such as mobile devices, tablets, mobility apps, GPS equipment, and data loggers is essential. Strong interpersonal and communication capabilities to engage professionally with various stakeholders are important.

Benefits and Culture

Townsville City Council emphasizes work-life balance and an inclusive work culture aimed at positively impacting the community. Key benefits include:

• Five weeks annual leave with 17.5% leave loading
• Three weeks Personal/Carers Leave
• Fourteen weeks paid Parental Leave
• Domestic and Family Violence Leave
• Natural Disaster Leave
• Provided uniforms and personal protective equipment where applicable
• Annual wage progression
• Up to 13.5% superannuation employer contribution for contributing members
• Salary sacrifice opportunities
• Access to diverse learning and development, including formal and on-the-job training
• Fitness Passport offering discounts at selected health and wellbeing facilities
• Employee Loyalty Program with discounts at local businesses
• Employee Assistance Program

Superannuation contributions are contingent on employee contributions of at least 6% of ordinary time earnings.

Equal Opportunity and Workplace Safety

We promote a safe, respectful, and diverse workplace welcoming individuals from varied backgrounds, including Indigenous peoples, diverse gender identities, cultural communities, people with disabilities, and veterans.

A drug and alcohol testing requirement is enforced as a condition of employment consistent with the Council’s zero tolerance policy.

Contact and Application

Interested candidates should prepare a cover letter (maximum two pages) detailing their skills, qualifications, and experience relevant to this role alongside a resume verifying licences and certifications. For inquiries, contact Matt via email (position queries only). Adjustments in the recruitment process for accessibility can be arranged by contacting the HR recruitment team confidentially.