Utilities Cadet Engineer

Overview

At PMHC every employee plays a part in ensuring we work together to achieve positive outcomes for our community. We are seeking applications from enthusiastic and proactive individuals wishing to commence a career as a Utilities Engineering Cadet. You\'ll gain practical, on-the-job experience while completing your university degree. You will support the design, planning and delivery of key utilities projects that impact the daily lives of our community, like water and waste infrastructure. You\'ll work alongside experienced engineers and technical experts, gaining hands-on exposure to project planning, asset management, data analysis, and field inspections. This full-time, two-year cadetship offers paid study time, and a structured development pathway designed to complement your formal education and fast-track your transition into the workforce. You'll contribute to real outcomes for the community while developing your technical skills in a supportive, hands-on environment.

What you will gain

As part of our team, you'll gain practical experience in:

• Supporting the design and delivery of utility infrastructure projects
• Project planning, cost estimation, and scheduling
• Working with systems like SCADA, Water Outlook, and MEX
• Participating in site inspections and applying engineering standards
• Contributing to asset management and data analysis
• Engaging with stakeholders and supporting internal teams

Whether you\'re entering your final or second-last year of study in 2026, this opportunity offers genuine, career-building experience in local government engineering.

Who we are looking for

We are looking for individuals who are:

• Starting either their second-last year or final year of study of a Civil Engineering degree in 2026
• Keen to apply what they have learned in practical situations
• Strong communicators with a willingness to learn
• Customer-focused and keen to contribute to community-focused outcomes
• Organised and proactive in managing both work and study commitments
• Have had previous work experience (in any field)

Remuneration and Benefits

Employment type: Full-time, fixed-term cadetship (up to 2 years, 35 hours/week)

Salary (exclusive of super): Starting from $1,069.50 to $1,117.30 per week depending on year of study

Benefits

• Paid study time to support your university commitments (baseline of one day per month, with additional time negotiable depending on course load and individual needs. A personalised training plan will be developed upon commencement to outline specific study hours. Cadets may also work beyond their standard 35 hours per week and use accrued flex leave for further study time if required.)
• On-the-job technical training and mentoring from experienced engineers
• Flexible work arrangements - hybrid working and flexi-time
• Discounted gym membership through Fitness Passport
• Career development opportunities
• Annual salary increase as per the Local Government (State) Award 2023 plus annual salary review
• Long service leave after 5 years
• Generous employee assistance program
• Salary packaging options available through Salary Packaging Australia and Maxxia
• Recognition through our annual awards ceremony

Why join us

This is more than just a student job, it's your first step into a meaningful engineering career. Get paid while you study, gain invaluable real-world experience, and contribute to projects that make a difference in your community. Grow your future with Port Macquarie Hastings Council

You must be an Australian/NZ citizen or an Australian Permanent Resident; no visa or work permit support can be provided for this role.

Questions

If you'd like more information about this opportunity, please contact Cameron Hawkins, Group Manager Utilities Planning and Design on 02 6581 8034.

Information Session

If you\'re interested in learning more about the recruitment process and what to expect, as well as hearing from current and former trainees/apprentices, we invite you to join us at the Glasshouse on September 16th at 6:00 PM. Please register for this event using the following link: Registration for Entry Pathways Information Session (2026 Intake).

Recruitment Timeline

Applications close Wednesday 01 October 2025 at 11:30pm. To apply, please answer the application questions and attach your resume.

Following the Application Period

• Interviews: 10th - 14th November 2025
• Employment Commences: 28th January 2026

Suitable candidates may be placed on a talent pool or eligibility list for future identical, or similar positions for a period of 12 months.

Please upload documents in PDF format.

We often ask our preferred applicants to complete pre-employment checks. This may include: Reference Checks; National Criminal Police Check; Medical Assessment; Qualification Verification; Working with Children Check Verification.

PMHC\'s recruitment notification process is primarily via system generated emails. Please ensure your email is correct before submitting an application to avoid missing crucial updates and outcomes. Email communication notifications are used for but not limited to: application received, interview booking tools, confirmation of interview, request for references/more information, delay notifications, testing/assessments (aptitude/psychometric/industry specific) and application outcomes (unsuccessful before or after interview).

Please regularly check your \'junk mail\' or ensure our email address Jobs@pmhc.nsw.gov.au and Pulse email no_reply@lgss.com.au is set to \'trustworthy\'.

Port Macquarie Hastings Council adheres to the principles of a child safe organisation and is committed to the care and protection of all children and young people.

At Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, we believe that diversity makes us stronger. We are committed to creating a workplace that reflects the vibrant community we serve—where everyone feels welcome, respected, and empowered to thrive. We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, veterans, people with disabilities, culturally and linguistically diverse individuals, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process or in the workplace, please contact us at jobs@pmhc.nsw.gov.au. We\'re here to support you every step of the way.

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