* Drive major water, wastewater, and infrastructure upgrades.
* Live and work in a culturally rich, welcoming remote community
* $160-180K + Super + Car + Accom + Relocation Assistance
Bring your experience, heart, and strategy and ensure projects stay on track within clear business guidelines.
About Council
Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire Council serves one of the largest and most culturally significant communities on the Cape York Peninsula. With a population of more than 1,200 residents and a land area of over 4,000 square kilometres, the Council plays a vital role in delivering essential services, infrastructure, community programs, and long‑term strategic development. Guided by a vision of building a healthy, safe, and economically strong community, Council is committed to innovation, collaboration, and culturally informed service delivery. You will be joining an enthusiastic leadership team supported by a highly engaged Mayor and Councillors who are deeply invested in positive outcomes for their community.
The Position
Reporting to the CEO the Executive Manager Roads, Infrastructure and Essential Services is a key leadership role (approx. 50 staff) responsible for ensuring the effective operation, maintenance and development of Kowanyama’s essential services, roads network and built infrastructure. With $8M in essential services upgrades underway, this role will lead critical design, planning and delivery activities while ensuring 24/7 reliability of water, wastewater, power, and other core services. You will oversee a diverse portfolio including roads, buildings, electrical services, waste, capital works, and emergency response, supported by a capable local workforce and specialist partners. This is a hands‑on, community‑embedded role where your leadership will directly shape the safety, functionality, and liveability of Kowanyama.
The Person
Council is seeking an experienced infrastructure leader with strong technical capability in water and wastewater management/essential services operations and project delivery. You will bring demonstrated executive‑level experience, sound judgement, and the ability to lead multidisciplinary teams in a remote environment. Success in this role requires cultural awareness, resilience, and a collaborative leadership style that supports capability building amongst local staff. You will be someone who thrives in a dynamic environment, communicates with clarity and respect, and can balance strategic planning with practical, on‑the‑ground problem solving. Experience working in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities or remote locations will be highly regarded.
Why this Role
This is a rare opportunity to make a meaningful and lasting impact in a community that genuinely values its leaders. You will work alongside a supportive CEO with deep local government experience, inherit well‑run operations, and step into a role with strong organisational momentum. Kowanyama offers a lifestyle enriched by culture, community spirit, and stunning natural surroundings, with excellent fishing and a range of local facilities. Council provides attractive remuneration, subsidised accommodation, a fully maintained vehicle, annual flights home and generous leave entitlements. Most importantly, you will join a community where 90% of residents are proud of what Council is achieving - your leadership will help continue that positive trajectory.
To Apply
For a confidential conversation, please call Rona Horsfall on 0438 943*** at Peak Services Recruitment. Alternatively, click ‘apply’ and you will be taken through to our website where you can find the Candidate Briefing Document and upload your details.
Applications will close on Tuesday 5th May at 10 pm. Please ensure you leave adequate time to complete your application before the closing date and time.