Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator - Lindeman Island
About the Opportunity:
An exceptional and rare opportunity exists for a highly skilled and dedicated Trade Qualified Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator to live and work on the pristine Lindeman Island, Queensland. This live-in role offers a unique blend of professional challenge and an idyllic island lifestyle, vital to ensuring the sustainable operation of our island facilities.
Position Title: Water and Waste Water Treatment Plant Operator
Location: Lindeman Island, Whitsunday Islands, Queensland, Australia
Reporting To: Construction Manager/Chief Engineer
Probation Period: 6 Months
Salary: $105K + Superannuation
Role Overview:
We are seeking an experienced and meticulous operator with comprehensive knowledge and hands-on experience across various water and wastewater treatment methodologies. The successful candidate will be responsible for the efficient, safe, and compliant operation, maintenance, and monitoring of all water and wastewater treatment infrastructure on the island. Due to the remote nature of the location, a high degree of autonomy, problem-solving capability, and a strong commitment to environmental compliance are essential.
Key Responsibilities:
* Aerobic and Anaerobic STP Operations: Operate, monitor, and maintain aerobic and anaerobic sewage treatment plants, ensuring optimal performance, effluent quality, and compliance with environmental regulations. This includes managing biological processes, sludge handling, and chemical dosing.
* Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems: Manage the operation and maintenance of reverse osmosis desalination plants for potable water production, including membrane cleaning, pre-treatment, post-treatment, and water quality monitoring.
* Flocculant and Sedimentation Systems: Operate and maintain water treatment systems utilizing flocculation and sedimentation processes, ensuring effective removal of suspended solids and contaminants to achieve desired water quality.
* Water Quality Monitoring: Conduct routine sampling and analysis of raw water, treated water, and wastewater effluent to ensure compliance with Australian Drinking Water Guidelines (ADWG), environmental licenses, and internal quality standards.
* Chemical Management: Handle, store, and accurately dose a range of chemicals used in water and wastewater treatment processes, adhering to all safety protocols and regulatory requirements.
* Equipment Maintenance: Perform routine preventative maintenance, fault finding, and minor repairs on pumps, valves, filters, blowers, clarifiers, membranes, and other associated plant equipment.
* Compliance & Reporting: Maintain accurate operational logs, production records, and compliance documentation. Prepare reports on plant performance, water quality, and incidents as required, ensuring strict adherence to all current Australian Standards (AS) relevant to water and wastewater treatment and environmental regulations.
* Troubleshooting: Diagnose and rectify operational issues promptly and efficiently to minimise downtime and ensure continuous service.
* Stock Management: Monitor and manage inventory of chemicals, spare parts, and consumables required for plant operations.
* Safety & WHS: Adhere to all Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) policies and procedures, ensuring a safe working environment for yourself and others.
* Emergency Response: Be prepared to respond to and manage plant emergencies, such as power outages, equipment failures, or water quality excursions.
Qualifications & Experience:
* Trade Qualification: Hold a relevant Australian Trade Qualification (e.g., Certificate III or IV in Water Operations, or equivalent relevant engineering/electrical/mechanical trade with specific water/wastewater experience).
* Water Treatment Experience: Minimum of 5 years post-qualification experience in the operation and maintenance of water treatment plants, specifically including Reverse Osmosis, flocculant, and sedimentation systems.
* Wastewater Treatment Experience: Minimum of 5 years post-qualification experience in the operation and maintenance of both aerobic and anaerobic sewage treatment plants.
* Australian Standards: Thorough knowledge and understanding of current Australian Drinking Water Guidelines (ADWG), relevant Australian Standards (AS) for water and wastewater infrastructure and operations, and environmental legislation.
* Licensing/Certifications:
* Relevant industry certifications (e.g., Confined Space, Working at Heights, Chemical Handling, etc.).
* Current and valid Australian Driver's License.
* Ideally, relevant plumbing, electrical, or mechanical trade licenses are highly advantageous.
* Construction white card.
Skills & Attributes:
* Technical Proficiency: Strong mechanical, electrical, and chemical aptitude relevant to water and wastewater processes.
* Analytical Skills: Excellent ability to interpret data, analyse trends, and troubleshoot complex operational issues.
* Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to monitoring, record-keeping, and ensuring high water quality standards.
* Self-Motivated & Autonomous: Capable of working independently with minimal supervision in a remote environment.
* Problem-Solving: Proactive and effective in identifying and resolving issues with plant performance.
* Adaptability: Flexible and willing to respond to unforeseen circumstances or emergencies at any time.
* Strong Communication: Clear and concise communication skills for reporting and liaising with management.
* Safety Conscious: A strong commitment to operational safety and environmental protection.
* Physical Fitness: Physically fit and able to perform duties including manual handling, climbing, and working in various weather conditions.
* Remote Living: A positive and resilient attitude towards living and working in a remote island community.
Benefits:
* Live-in accommodation provided on Lindeman Island.
* Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
* Unique opportunity to work in a vital role within a stunning natural environment.
* Be an integral part of an island community.