Operator Backhoe

2 weeks ago


Mackay, Queensland, Australia Mackay Regional Council Full time $60,000 - $80,000 per year

Location: Paget Depot

Employment Type: Permanent Full-Time

Roster: 9 Day Fortnight

Classification: Level 5 (Stream B)

Department: Infrastructure & Operations

Program: Civil Operations

About the Role

Mackay Regional Council is seeking a skilled and motivated Operator - Backhoe to join our Civil Operations team. This role plays a vital part in maintaining and constructing roads, drainage assets, and other civil infrastructure across the region. You'll work under limited supervision and contribute to high-quality outcomes for our community.

Key Responsibilities

  • Operate medium plant, particularly backhoes, and other ride-on and light mechanical equipment.
  • Drive rigid motor vehicles (GVM ≥ 22.5t) and vehicle-trailer combinations (GCM ≤ 42.5t).
  • Perform labouring tasks including earthworks, concrete, pipelaying, bitumen, and vegetation work.
  • Conduct daily maintenance and pre-start checks on assigned plant.
  • Collaborate with mechanical services for repairs and upkeep.
  • Manage traffic safely around work sites.
  • Deliver excellent service to internal and external clients.
  • Complete documentation such as timesheets and basic calculations accurately

What We Offer

  • Base annual salary of $67,054.26
  • Up to 18% superannuation (conditions apply)
  • 4 or 5 weeks' annual leave with 17.5% leave loading
  • Flexible work arrangements with a 9 day fortnight
  • Access to corporate discounts, study support, and career development programs
  • Employee Assistance Program and health & wellbeing initiatives
  • Active social clubs and a supportive team environment

What You Need

  • General Construction Safety "White" Card
  • QLD Heavy Rigid Truck 'HR' Class Licence (or willingness to obtain within 12 months)
  • Certificate of Competency to Operate Road Construction Plant, especially a backhoe
  • QLD "C" Class Driver's Licence or interstate equivalent
  • Traffic Control Ticket (desirable)
  • Experience in road and drainage construction/maintenance

Why work for Mackay Regional Council?

Mackay Regional Council is a dynamic, progressive and financially sound local government. We have responsibility for $3.5 billion worth of assets and employ almost 1200 dedicated staff in a vibrant, rapidly growing region where sugar, mining, beef, tourism and retail drive the economy. Mackay is located halfway between Brisbane and Cairns and is truly the heart of Queensland, covering 7,622 square kilometres of rainforest, Natural Parks, historic townships, miles of golden beaches and more than 70 tropical islands. The Region boasts a vibrant economy offering an idyllic lifestyle on the Central Queensland coast, from picturesque beaches and nearby island resorts to beautiful rainforests. The Region has a great climate coupled with high quality education and health facilities.

Discover more about the Mackay Region

Want to know more about this role?

View the Position Description (PD) for this role in the document attachments.

How to apply:

Prepare and submit your cover letter and resume, outlining your relevant experience for this role. If applying for this job via a 3rd party job board such as SEEK, LinkedIn etc. you will be redirected to the Mackay Regional Council Careers (eRecruit) website to apply. Follow the prompts to submit your application (the eRecruit Job Application Quick Reference Guide or theeRecruit Job Applicant Guide can assist).

After submitting, you will receive an automated confirmation email. Should you not receive this, please ensure you have submitted your application and your email address on your account is correct.

Applications Close:

Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity This vacancy may close earlier than expected, so don't delay in submitting your application to avoid missing out.

Having troubles submitting your application?

Reach out to one of our friendly Recruitment Officers by phoning 1300 MACKAY

***Important information for applicants:

To be considered for this position, all candidates must have the appropriate working rights for Australia, Please visit Mackay Regional Council - Careers at council webpage regarding International Applicant criteria. Your Australian work rights will be verified during the recruitment process.

Applicants who progress beyond the interview stage will be required to undergo a pre-employment process, which includes comprehensive Pre-Employment Medical Assessments (inclusive of Drug and Alcohol testing)

We are an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer, where all applicants are treated fairly and respectfully and have equal access to all available opportunities. At Mackay Regional Council, diversity is about creating a respectful and inclusive workplace that recognises our employees' unique contributions and perspectives, working together to deliver extraordinary results.



  • Mackay, Queensland, Australia Mackay Regional Council Full time $67,000 - $100,000 per year

    Experienced Civil Construction Backhoe OperatorMackay Regional Council is currently seeking an experienced Backhoe Operator to join our Civil Operations team at Sarina Depot. This position offers a permanent full-time opportunity with a 9-day fortnight roster.As an experienced Backhoe Operator, you will play a crucial role in our construction and maintenance...


  • Mackay, Queensland, Australia Mackay Regional Council Full time $80,000 - $100,000 per year

    Join Our Dynamic Civil Operations Team at Mackay Regional CouncilAre you ready to take your career to the next level? Mackay Regional Council is excited to offer several fantastic opportunities to join our Civil Operations team at the Eungella Depot, located just 80km west of Mackay.About This OpportunityWe are looking for dedicated and skilled individuals...

  • Truck Driver

    7 days ago


    Mackay, Queensland, Australia Mackay Regional Council Full time $67,054 - $100,000 per year

    Join Our Crew as a Truck DriverAre you ready to hit the road with purpose and pride? Mackay Regional Council is on the lookout for skilled and safety-conscious Truck Drivers to join our Civil Operations team. If you love working outdoors, operating heavy vehicles and machinery, and being part of a team that keeps our roads and drainage infrastructure in top...

  • Truck Driver

    2 weeks ago


    Mackay, Queensland, Australia Mackay Regional Council Full time $60,000 - $80,000 per year

    Join Mackay Regional Council and be part of our dedicated Roads and Drainage Crew based in Paget. We are looking for skilled tandem axle truck driver who is passionate about civil construction and can contribute to the maintenance and development of our road networks.Experience RequiredConstruction and maintenance of roads and drainage...


  • Mackay, Queensland, Australia Mackay Regional Council Full time $69,000 - $71,000 per year

    Join Mackay Regional Council's Field Services Team We are seeking a motivated and experienced Leading Hand Construction to join our Infrastructure & Operations department at the Paget Depot. This hands-on supervisory role is ideal for someone who thrives in civil construction and is ready to lead a day labour crew and subcontractors in delivering quality...