Civil Construction Apprentice

About the Opportunity

At PMHC every employee plays a part in ensuring we work together to achieve positive outcomes for our community. To help us achieve this we are seeking applications from enthusiastic and proactive individuals wishing to commence a career as a Civil Construction Apprentice (Aboriginal Identified). This full-time, two-year apprenticeship offers hands-on experience working on important community infrastructure and provides paid study time to complete your Certificate III in Civil Construction through our Registered Training Organisation of choice. This is an Aboriginal Identified Position: Applicants for this position must be of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent through parentage, identify as an Aboriginal person and/or Torres Strait Islander and be accepted in the community as such. Under the provisions of section 126 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 (NSW) an exemption is given from sections 8, 25 and 51.

What you’ll gain

As part of our team, you’ll gain practical skills working on:

- Infrastructure maintenance and construction projects

- Pipeline construction and repairs, including trenching, bedding, and pipe laying

- Concrete formwork construction, concrete placement and finishing

- General labouring activities across roads, drainage, and other Council assets

- Traffic control operations in line with work plans and safety guidelines

- Safe operation and maintenance of small plant and handheld power tools

- Introduction and understanding of plant and equipment used in civil construction

You’ll be supporting works that directly benefit the Port Macquarie-Hastings community, while developing capabilities that set the foundation for a long-term career in civil construction.

Who we’re looking for

- Cooperative and enthusiastic applicants with a genuine interest in civil construction career

- Willing to learn on the job and ask questions

- Interested in maintaining and improving community facilities

- Team players with strong communication skills (both written and verbal)

- Safety-conscious, committed to working safely for yourself and others

- Able to commit to study requirements and complete training in a timely and organised way

- Hold a current Driver's License (Red P’s or more)

- Able to comply with uniform and PPE requirements, including while at TAFE

Whether you’re a school leaver, returning to the workforce, or looking to change careers, this apprenticeship is a fantastic way to build a long-term career.

Remuneration and Benefits

Employment type: Full-time, two-year apprenticeship with paid study time (38 hours per week with a 9-day fortnight)

Salary (exclusive of super): Starting from $808.30 to $974.50 per week depending on school level obtained and experience

Allowance: Adverse Working Level 1

Benefits

- On-the-job technical practical training and development

- Supported study leading to Australian Qualification Foundation nationally recognised qualification

- Fortnightly Rostered Day Off (RDO)

- PPE provided

- Discounted gym membership through Fitness Passport

- Genuine career progression opportunities within Council

- Annual salary increase as per the Local Government (State) Award 2023

- Salary packaging options available through Salary Packaging Australia and Maxxia

- Generous employee assistance program

- Recognition through our annual awards ceremony celebrating and rewarding staff achievements

Why join us?

Get paid while you earn your Certificate III in Civil Construction. Learn on the job with experienced tradespeople working on real, important projects that make a difference in your community. Enjoy a great work-life balance, competitive pay, study support, and genuine career opportunities. Start your future with Port Macquarie Hastings Council today

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 have any questions about this opportunity or the role, please contact Toni Durrant, Talent & Recruitment Officer on 6581 8413.

Recruitment Timeline

Applications close Sunday 12 October 2025 at 11:30pm. To apply, please answer the application questions and attach your resume.

- Aptitude Testing: 13 - 16 October 2025

- Interviews: 10 - 14 November 2025

- Employment Commences: 28 January 2026

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.

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.

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.

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