Douglas Shire Council is responsible for delivering critical services to communities across one of Queensland’s most environmentally significant and naturally beautiful regions. With a strong focus on sustainability, community wellbeing and responsible infrastructure management, Council plays a vital role in ensuring reliable water and wastewater services while protecting the region’s unique environment.
Council is values driven and committed to building a culture based on integrity, respect, teamwork and community care. This is an opportunity to join a progressive organisation where leadership, technical expertise and strategic thinking are highly valued.
About the Role:
This position will maintain process operations within Mossman/Port Douglas, Whyanbeel and Daintree drinking water schemes and DeMeio non-potable water supply scheme, as well as oversee operations at all water reservoirs and pumping stations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and supervise the day-to-day operations of water and wastewater treatment plants, including team leadership, rostering, process monitoring, and ensuring compliance with operational and licence requirements.
- Optimise plant performance by analysing operational data, implementing process improvements, supporting asset management, and maintaining accurate records and reporting.
- Coordinate maintenance and projects by supporting planned and reactive maintenance, managing plant resources and chemical stocks, and assisting with the delivery of capital works projects.
- Promote a safe, compliant, and high-performing workplace by ensuring legislative compliance, supporting staff training and development, fostering teamwork, and maintaining high presentation standards across facilities.
- Provide operational support and customer service through effective communication with management, accurate corporate recordkeeping, participation in on-call arrangements, and delivering responsive customer service.
About You:
- Current Certificate III in Water/Wastewater Treatment Plant Operations with a technical background and experience in advanced treatment process operations.
- Secondary education to Year 12.
- Current “C” class drivers licence.
- Minimum 5 years experience as water treatment operator.
- Working knowledge of environmental licences, Drinking Water Quality Management Plans, relevant acts, regulations and Council Policies.
- Advanced mathematic and chemistry skills.
- Physical wellbeing to receive training and accreditation for entry into confined spaces.
- A practical “hands on” approach to resolution of problems.
- Advanced computer skills particularly with databases, maintenance management software and Microsoft software.
- Good written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to read and understand water reticulation, mechanical and electrical plans/drawings.
- Ability to plan and implement capital projects, working alongside Councils Infrastructure and Recovery Department.
- Knowledge of telemetry/SCADA operating system.
- Resource management and interpersonal skills.
- The ability and experience to manage work teams.
Why Work With Us?
- Competitive Salary
- 12% Superannuation
- 5 Weeks Annual Leave per year
- Lead an essential service that directly supports community wellbeing and environmental sustainability.
- Enjoy a supportive, inclusive, and forward-thinking workplace.
- Enjoy the stunning surrounds of the Daintree, Great Barrier Reef, Tablelands, tourism town of Port Douglas and 4 Mile beach
This is a rare opportunity for an experienced leader to shape the future of water and wastewater services in one of Queensland’s most unique regions while leading a capable team and delivering critical infrastructure outcomes.
