Division/Section: Infrastructure and Operations - Property Fleet and Emergency Management

Position Type:Permanent Full Time (9 day fortnight, 38 hours/week)

Salary Range:Base Salary $70,058 per annum + super

Application Close: 11:45pm, 30 October 2026

About the Role

Townsville City Council is seeking experienced and safety-focused Plant Operators (Backhoe) to join our Infrastructure and Operations team. In this hands-on role, you will operate a backhoe and a range of civil construction plant and equipment to support the construction, maintenance and repair of Council's road and drainage infrastructure.

Working as part of a dedicated crew, you will contribute to delivering high-quality outcomes for the Townsville community while ensuring all work is completed safely, efficiently and to required standards.

What You'll Do

- Operate a backhoe and other civil construction plant including road rollers, skid steers and mini excavators.
- Complete construction and maintenance activities on roads, drainage and other municipal infrastructure.
- Undertake pre-start checks, risk assessments and worksite safety requirements.
- Maintain plant and equipment through routine inspections, cleaning and minor maintenance.
- Report faults, defects and breakdowns promptly.
- Safely load, restrain and transport plant and equipment where required.
- Participate in toolbox meetings and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
- Assist with labouring duties and other construction activities as required.
- Work collaboratively within a crew environment to achieve operational objectives.




- Champion Council's commitment to safety by ensuring everyone goes home protected today.

About You

You are a reliable and experienced plant operator who takes pride in delivering quality work while maintaining a strong focus on safety. You enjoy working outdoors, contributing to your local community and being part of a team that delivers essential infrastructure services.

You will possess:

- Demonstrated experience operating a backhoe and other civil construction plant.
- A strong commitment to workplace health and safety practices.
- Sound knowledge of construction and maintenance activities associated with local government infrastructure.
- The ability to work effectively within a team and prioritise tasks to meet project requirements.
- Basic mechanical knowledge and experience undertaking plant inspections and daily maintenance.
- Good communication skills and a customer-focused approach.

Mandatory Requirements

To be successful in this role, you must hold:

- Current Queensland HR Class Driver Licence.
- Relevant Plant Operator Certificates of Competency.
- Certificate of completion for Safe Working Near Live Exposed Parts training.
- Backhoe certification/ticket




- Final trim experience

For further information review the Position Description.

Townsville City Council is the largest local government authority in Northern Australia. We’re committed to supporting our people through a strong focus on work–life balance, a positive and inclusive culture, and a shared passion for making a meaningful impact in our community.

We have a range of benefits that confirm this commitment:

- 5 weeks annual leave + 17.5% leave loading
- 3 weeks Personal/Carers Leave
- 14 weeks paid Parental Leave
- Domestic and Family Violence Leave
- Uniforms and PPE provided (if applicable)
- Annual wage progression
- Up to *13.5% Superannuation employer contribution for contributing members
- Salary Sacrifice opportunities
- Access to a range of learning and development opportunities, including on-the-job learning and formal training programs
- Fitness Passport program offering discounted membership to selected health and wellbeing facilities
- Employee Loyalty Program offering discounts at selected local businesses
- Employee Assistance Program
- * The Council contribution to employees' superannuation for contributing employees shall be 13.5% of the employees' ordinary time earnings subject to the employee contributing a minimum of 6% of their ordinary time earnings.

Contact Person: Mick

Contact Email: ***@townsville.qld.gov.au (for position enquiries only)

We are committed to creating a safe and inclusive workplace where diverse styles, backgrounds, experi

📌 Plant Operator Backhoe (Australia)
🏢 Townsville City Council
📍 Australia