Mechanical Apprentice

SA Water is a successful, modern water utility wholly owned by the Government of South Australia. We employ more than 1,700 people across a broad range of disciplines who operate more than $14 billion worth of infrastructure to deliver essential water and sewerage services to more than 1.8 million South Australians.

We operate in a geographically and climatically diverse service area, with sites and locations from Ceduna through to Port Augusta, the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands, across to the Riverland, down to Mount Gambier, and most places in between.

Our strength and expertise have been shaped by our history. For more than 165 years, South Australians have depended on us to innovate and deliver efficient and sustainable water services. With nationally and internationally recognised industry expertise, we're focused on understanding and meeting our customers' expectations.

As well as safely delivering smart and reliable services for our customers of today, we innovate to shape the water solutions of the future that will support thriving economies and healthy communities.

We are driven by our values; we value our people, we do work that matters, we keep it real, we know that our work has impact and we are future focussed. Staying true to our values ensures that we consistently deliver positive outcomes for all South Australians.

SA Water's 2026 Apprenticeship Program is a hands-on, entry-level opportunity for individuals who are passionate about practical work and eager to learn a trade. Over four years, you'll combine real, on-the-job experience with formal TAFE training in your chosen trade.

We're currently seeking a Mechanical Apprentice to join our team at the Happy Valley Workshop, starting in January 2026. This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a supportive team that will help you grow and develop your career in the electrical trade, while playing a key role in delivering essential water services across South Australia.

You're someone who's passionate about working with your hands, enjoys practical, real-world problem-solving, and is eager to kickstart a meaningful career. You might be just finishing school, looking for a new direction, or ready to dive into something you've always been interested in. Most importantly, you're curious, safety-conscious, and committed to learning. You care about water and the environment, and you want to play a part in delivering essential services to South Australians. If you bring a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and a willingness to grow, we'll provide the training and support to help you succeed.

The Operations & Maintenance team oversees the management of our water, wastewater and River Murray activities and conducts operational control activities for a secure water supply. The team is responsible for both planned and unplanned maintenance activities, integrating corrective, preventive, predictive, and precision maintenance strategies. They aim to meet availability, performance, cost, and risk targets by leveraging technical asset maintenance and reliability expertise. Operations & Maintenance strives to deliver smart and reliable services to customers while enhancing overall operational efficiency.

In addition, your responsibilities will include:

• Fostering trust with our people, customers and community by providing expert advice and service that ensure we effectively communicate and engage audiences with our business strategy and its delivery across South Australia, every day.
• Supporting maintenance teams with day-to-day operations.
• Learning to operate tools, machinery, and vehicles.
• Attending TAFE and off-the-job training as required.
• Collaborating with your team to complete projects safely and on time.
• Learning about asset management, safety practices, and compliance standards.
• Actively participating in team discussions and continuous improvement.
• Committing to and successfully completing all components of your TAFE studies and training requirements.

Your success in this role will come from:

• A willingness to learn and a strong work ethic.
• Clear and respectful communication.
• Basic computer and data entry skills.
• Ability to follow safety procedures and use tools/equipment correctly.
• Actively engaging with training opportunities.
• Demonstrating pride in your work and accountability to your team.

Further information can be found in the attached Position Description Apprentice and Trainee and our Apprentice Program 2026 FAQ, which answers common questions about the program, study commitments, and the recruitment process.

To apply, click 'Apply'. Please submit and complete the application form, upload a cover letter and current resume. For enquiries, please contact Tayla from the Talent Acquisition team.

Applications close 4pm, Sunday 14th September.

A great customer experience is best achieved by having a diverse and inclusive team that reflects the community we serve. Applications are encouraged from everyone, including people living with disability, job seekers of all ages, members of the LGBTIQA+ community, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and people from culturally diverse backgrounds.

Our Industry is like no other. Dive into the wonderful world of water and explore the boundless opportunities. Learn more about the water industry at careersinwater.com.au.

Please note: We request that recruitment agencies do not submit candidates for this position, as they will not be accepted.