Walgett Shire Council

Plant Operator – Waste Services

• Drive change in your community—operate powerful machinery while keeping our streets and environment clean
• Be at the frontline of sustainable waste management—your skills, our mission, cleaner futures
• Join a team where your heavy equipment expertise powers real impact—on the ground and in the community 
• Attractive salary of between $1,089 - $1,330 per week
• Generous benefits including 4 weeks of annual leave, long service leave after 5 years, flex leave arrangements, and more!

About us:

Walgett Shire Council proudly serves a diverse and unique region in the heart of outback New South Wales. Covering over 22,000 square kilometres, the Shire includes the towns of Walgett, Lightning Ridge, and Collarenebri, along with the villages of Carinda, Cumborah, Rowena, and Burren Junction, as well as expansive rural areas. With a population of approximately 7,000, the Shire supports key industries such as agriculture, grazing, grain handling, opal mining, and tourism.

Nestled at the junction of the Namoi and Barwon Rivers, Walgett is rich in history and natural beauty. Once a bustling paddle-steamer port, it is now the northern gateway to the iconic Darling River Run, offering breathtaking landscapes and a deep connection to Australia’s heritage.

Just an hour north, Lightning Ridge is famed for its vibrant opal mining culture and distinctive outback charm. Whether it is fossicking for opals, exploring underground art galleries, soaking in naturally heated artesian springs, or enjoying the tranquillity of river fishing, the region offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

Life in Walgett Shire offers the best of outback living—open skies, a strong sense of community, and endless opportunities to explore.

At Walgett Shire Council, we are rebuilding with a people-first culture. Safety, our people, and service to the community are at the core of everything we do. We are looking for passionate and committed professionals who are aligned with our core values: Respect, Integrity, Ethical Conduct, Courage, Honesty, Accountability, and Responsibility.

Life in Walgett Shire offers the best of outback living—open skies, a strong sense of community, and endless opportunities to explore. For more information about Walgett and the Lightning Ridge area, please click here.

About the role:

The Plant Operator – Waste Services plays a crucial role in the day-to-day operations of Council’s waste management and plant equipment services. Responsible for operating machinery such as garbage trucks, street sweepers, skid steers, tipper trucks, and trailers, the operator ensures that waste disposal activities are carried out efficiently and in compliance with safety, environmental, and legislative standards. Key tasks include maintaining landfill infrastructure, conducting basic equipment maintenance, identifying hazards, and ensuring all operations align with Council’s Waste Management Strategy.

This position demands a high level of autonomy, accountability, and technical skill, with the operator expected to work independently and collaborate with other Council teams when needed. A current HR driver's licence, WHS Construction Induction Card, and relevant experience are essential, while additional certifications in waste management, first aid, and chemical handling are highly regarded. The role contributes directly to public health, environmental protection, and community satisfaction through reliable, safe, and sustainable waste services.

This is a critical role for a Council that is committed to doing things differently, valuing transparency, teamwork, and delivering positive outcomes for the community.

About you:

• Experienced in operating a wide range of heavy plant equipment, including garbage trucks, street sweepers, skid steers, tipper trucks, and trailers.

• Hold a current HR driver’s licence and WHS Construction Induction Card, with a strong commitment to safety and compliance.

• Skilled in routine maintenance and basic servicing of plant equipment, including greasing, fluid checks, and cleaning.

• Proven ability to work independently with minimal supervision while meeting high performance standards.

• Demonstrated awareness of workplace hazards and experienced in applying practical risk mitigation strategies.

• Available for on-call duties and flexible with work hours and locations within the local government area.

• Committed to delivering quality outcomes that align with Council’s Waste Management Strategy and environmental regulations.

• Strong communication and teamwork skills, with a professional approach when engaging with community members and colleagues.

• Passionate about contributing to a cleaner, safer community through efficient and responsible waste services.

• Most importantly, you align with our values of Respect, Integrity, Ethical Conduct, Courage, Honesty, Accountability, and Responsibility, and are committed to building a positive workplace culture.

At Walgett Shire Council, we understand that not every candidate will meet every criterion, and that is perfectly fine—your passion and potential matter most to us.

The full position description can be viewed by clicking here.

For further information or discussion about the position, contact Leigh Sage on 02 6828 6133 during business hours.

What we offer:

• A highly competitive salary of between $1,089 - $1,330 per week plus superannuation.
• Essential tools of the trade.
• Salary Packaging options to maximise your take-home pay
• Generous benefits including 4 weeks of annual leave and long service leave after 5 years.
• Flex-time arrangements, promoting a healthy work/life balance.
• Professional development opportunities to support your growth and success.
• Employee Assistance Program available to support you and your family through all life’s challenges.
• Exceptional working conditions within a family-friendly and supportive environment.

How to apply:

To apply, follow the instructions below, complete the selection criteria and attach your resume and cover letter.

A failure to answer selection criteria and to attach your resume will result in your application being rejected.

Further information regarding the online application process may be obtained by contacting Council’s People and Culture Team via email jobs@walgett.nsw.gov.au 

Please Note: All correspondence regarding your application status and interview will be sent to you via email.

Closing date for applications:

Applications close at 9.00am on Wednesday, 4 June 2025.

Council reserves the right to close, withdraw or extend vacancies without prior notice.

Walgett Shire Council is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We encourage applications from people with disabilities, culturally and linguistically diverse persons, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, veterans, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.