Make a real impact where it matters most
At Cook Shire Council, our Water and Wastewater Network Operators are frontline guardians of essential services across some of Queensland's most unique and remote communities.
If you enjoy hands-on work, problem-solving in the field, and being part of a tight-knit operational team — this is a role with purpose, challenge and pride.
What Makes This Role Great
Work that matters – you'll help deliver safe drinking water and reliable wastewater services that protect public health and the environment across multiple remote communities
Variety every day – hands-on field work, fault response, infrastructure maintenance and remote monitoring via SCADA mean no two days are the same
Real responsibility – your judgement and problem-solving skills genuinely count in keeping essential services running in complex, remote environments
Strong team culture – be part of a skilled, supportive operational team that looks out for each other and takes pride in the work they do
Lifestyle + career – secure local government employment combined with the unique lifestyle and adventure of living and working in Far North Queensland
What You'll Be Doing
Operating and maintaining water and wastewater networks to ensure safe, reliable and compliant services
Managing water quality through chlorine dosing, sampling and monitoring
Responding to faults, blockages and incidents to minimise service disruptions and environmental risk
Supporting treatment plant operations, including SCADA monitoring and on-call duties
Undertaking pipe laying, repairs and infrastructure works using plant, vehicles and specialised equipment
About You
Experience in water and wastewater operations or the ability to learn quickly in a hands-on environment
Practical experience in civil works, pipe laying or infrastructure maintenance (desirable)
Confidence operating plant and equipment safely and efficiently
A proactive, problem-solving mindset with strong safety awareness
The ability to work well independently and as part of a team
Why Join Cook Shire Council?
Secure local government employment under a Certified Agreement
Training and professional development to support your growth
A supportive, inclusive team culture that values safety and collaboration
Work with purpose, where your skills directly benefit local communities
The lifestyle and adventure of Far North Queensland living
How to apply
To Apply, Please Review The Candidate Information Kit For This Position. To Be Considered For Selection You Will Need To Submit
a Cover Letter outlining why you are interested in this role; and
a detailed and up to date Resume/CV.
Applications should be submitted online. Click on the "Apply Now" tab below to apply.
Applications will close 11pm Sunday 22 February 2026.
Cook Shire Council will be assessing applications as they are submitted, so get in early. We reserve the right to close the advertisement early should a suitable candidate be identified.
Summary & Conditions Of Employment
Job reference
CSC166
Position
Water and Wastewater Network Operator
Location:
Based in Cooktown, Qld
Tenure
Full Time
Remuneration
Queensland Local Government Industry (Stream B: Division 2, Section 5) Award – State 2017
Level 5
$70,657 per annum + relevant allowances
Superannuation
12% Superannuation contributions
Leave Entitlements
5 weeks annual leave
3 weeks personal leave
Cook Shire Council is an equal opportunity employer and encourages a diverse workplace. Indigenous community members and women are strongly encouraged to apply.
All applications are assessed on merit.