Division/Section:Infrastructure and Operations / Water
Position Type:Permanent Full Time (9 day fortnight, 38 hours/week)
Salary Range:Base Salary $75,647 per annum + super, plus applicable allowances, overtime and penalty rates, which may increase total annual earnings by $21,000 or more depending on work performed. Additional entitlements and overtime do not form part of the advertised base salary
Location: Garbutt Operations Centre
Application Close: 11:45pm, Thursday 12 March 2026
We're chasing a hardworking Wastewater Ganger/Licenced Drainer to lead a small crew out in the field, keeping our wastewater network running safely and reliably.
You'll be on the tools as well as supervising and planning the day's jobs, organising materials and gear, and making sure work gets done properly, on time and within budget. Using your Drainer's Licence, you'll carry out and oversee drainage works, fix and maintain house drains, gravity and pressure mains, clear blockages, repair pipes, and build or repair manholes. You'll also look after pump stations, including cleaning probes and wet wells, keeping the site tidy, and checking and reporting on how the equipment is running.
The role includes general construction work like concreting, block work and carpentry, smoke testing the sewer system, and cleaning up and disinfecting any wastewater spills. You'll work closely with Team Leaders, other crews, contractors and the public, always delivering good customer service and following Council procedures, safety rules and environmental standards. We're looking for someone who takes safety seriously, does quality work, and is committed to best practice and looking after the environment.
This role is required to participate in the on-call roster and overtime arrangements as required, to resolve out of hours operational issues or emergency works including disaster management. The on-call roster is generally 1 week in every 6 weeks.
Qualifications and Experience
Ideally you will have:
* Essential - Current Drainer's licence or relevant superior qualification.
* Current "MR" class driver's licence.
* Confined Space Entry ticket and a good knowledge of confined space entry procedures.
* Construction Industry White Card QLD).
* Ability to receive Immunisation against Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B provided through Council.
* Ability to work as part of a team and also independently, including the ability to supervise work crews.
* Knowledge of and experience in operation and maintenance of wastewater distribution and reticulation systems, including maintenance, repair and construction techniques and operation and maintenance of pump stations.
* Ability to read and understand basic mechanical and civil engineering drawings and to create as constructed plans.
* Ability to understand and operate pump station control (SCADA) Systems.
* A working knowledge of the National Plumbing and Drainage Standard AS/NZS and the Plumbing and Drainage Act and Regulation.
* Good supervisory and problem-solving skills along with good written and oral communication skills.
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
* Natural Disaster Leave
* Uniforms and PPE provided
* 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: Scott (Team Leader)
Contact Phone:
How to Apply
Your application can be submitted through the 'Apply' button. Please include a cover letter (maximum 2 pages), outlining how your skills, qualifications and experience would allow you to achieve success in this role. We also will require your resume which should confirm any licences and qualifications your hold.
For further information review the Position Description.
We are committed to creating a safe and inclusive workplace where diverse styles, backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are valued, encouraged, and respected. People from diverse backgrounds (including but not limited to, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, people with diverse gender identities and sexualities, people from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds, people with disability, and veterans) are encouraged to apply
All successful candidates are required to undergo drug and alcohol testing as part of the recruitment process. Please be aware Townsville City Council has a 'zero tolerance' policy to drugs and alcohol in the workplace.
If you need any adjustments to be made to the recruitment process or if you would like to discuss any accessibility requirements, please contact or phone for a confidential discussion.