EXTERNAL OPPORTUNITY

About the Opportunity

Join Port Macquarie-Hastings Council's Utilities Operations team and help deliver secure, reliable water and wastewater services for our community. We're recruiting a Water Process Operator and a Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator.

About the roles

Both roles involve hands-on plant operations, sampling and testing, monitoring plant performance, and responding to alarms and equipment issues. You'll work across Council sites and participate in an after-hours on-call roster.

Water Process Operator

You'll operate and maintain Council's drinking water and recycled water treatment plants, monitor and adjust treatment processes and chemical dosing, and carry out water quality sampling and testing. You'll need a Certificate III in Water Treatment Operations or substantial water treatment operations experience, plus demonstrated experience operating water treatment plants and chemical dosing systems. You'll also need to be able to use SCADA, perform basic chemical dosage calculations and carry out field and laboratory testing. An understanding of the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines and a current Class C driver's licence are essential.

Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator

You'll help operate and maintain Council's wastewater treatment plants, carry out process checks and sampling, and operate and maintain mobile and fixed sludge dewatering equipment. You may also drive trucks for biosolids removal. You'll need recent relevant experience in water, sewer or construction and be willing to obtain a Certificate III in Water Industry Operations. You'll bring knowledge of or experience with pumping systems, chemical dosing systems or mobile plant and equipment. A current NSW driver's licence and NSW White Card are essential. You'll also need a current NSW Heavy Rigid (HR) driver's licence or be willing to obtain one within six months.

Remuneration and Benefits

Employment type: Permanent, full-time role (38 hours per week with 9-day fortnight)

Salary (exclusive of super):



Starting salary of $1,326.45 per week with the opportunity for competency-based progression.

Allowance: This role attracts allowances for adverse working and on call.

Benefits:

- Fortnightly RDO
- PPE provided
- Discounted gym membership through membership to Fitness Passport
- Candidates relocating to the region have access to The Welcome ExperienceOpportunities for learning and development and internal career progression
- Annual salary increase as per the Local Government (State) Award 2026
- Long service leave after 5 years
- Generous employee assistance program
- Salary packaging options available through Salary Packaging Australia and Maxxia
- Recognition through our annual awards ceremony celebrating and rewarding staff achievements

About the Port Macquarie Hastings Region

The region is one of Australia's most enviable locations. We boast a stunning hinterland, kilometres of pristine beaches, national parks, playgrounds, sporting facilities, restaurants, galleries, theatres and a genuine community vibe. The Mid-North Coast is perfect for hiking, surfing, camping, fishing, exploration, sports, arts, theatre, food and wine.

Questions?

If you would like to know more about this opportunity or have any questions about the role, please contact Jesse Wisselo on (02) 6581 8***.

Interested in Applying?

Click 'Apply now' to create an account and complete the application form. You'll be asked to answer questions relating to the essential requirements found in the position description and upload a copy of your resume and cover letter.

Documents should be submitted in PDF format.

Applications Close: Tuesday 25 November 2026 at 11:30pm





At Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, we believe that diversity makes us stronger. We are committed to creating a workplace that reflects the vibrant community we serve—where everyone feels welcome, respected, and empowered to thrive.

We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, veterans, people with disabilities, culturally and linguistically diverse individuals, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process or in the workplace, please contact us at ****@pmhc.nsw.gov.au.We're here to support you every step of the way.

Notes:

Suitable candidates may be placed on an eligibility list for future identical positions for 6 months or a talent pool for similar positions for a period of 12 months.

Please upload documents in PDF format.

Preferred applicants are required to complete pre-employment checks. This may include: Reference Checks; National Criminal Police Check; Medical Assessment (includes drug and alcohol testing); Qualification verification; Working with Children Check verification.

PMHC's recruitment notification process is primarily via system generated emails. Please ensure your email is correct before submitting an application to avoid missing crucial updates and outcomes. Email communication notifications are used for but not limited to: application received, interview booking tools, confirmation of interview, request for references/more information, delay notifications, testing/assessments (aptitude/psychometric/industry specific) and application outcomes (unsuccessful before or after interview).

Please regularly check your 'junk mail' or ensure our email address ****@pmhc.nsw.gov.au and Pulse email ********@pulsesoftware.comis set to 'trustworthy'.

Port Macquarie Hastings Council adheres to the principles of a child safe organisation and is committed to the care and protection of all children and young people.

📌 Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator / Water Treatment Operator (Port Macquarie)
🏢 Port Macquarie-Hastings Council
📍 Port Macquarie