Senior Heavy Plant Operator

About the Organisation

Aurukun Shire Council plays a crucial role in leading the community and addressing the needs of its residents. The Council works closely with various stakeholders, including government agencies, non-governmental organisations, and local businesses, to improve service delivery and create opportunities for the community it serves.

Key focus areas for the Aurukun Shire Council include community safety, governance, economic development, and preservation of cultural identity, environmental management, postal services, aged care and childcare provision.

Initiatives are developed and implemented in consultation with community members, ensuring their active participation and ownership. The Council strives to empower community members, promote self-determination, and build a sustainable and prosperous future for Aurukun.

About the Role

This role is residential and based in Aurukun.

Reporting to the Civil and Operational Works Manger the position is responsible for civil

construction maintenance for Aurukun Shire Council, including road maintenance and

the management of parks and gardens.

The role is accountable for the implementation of projects of a range of works including

parks and gardens, road and footpath construction, rehabilitation and repairs and

refuse services.

Strong communication skills and the ability to maintain solid relationships (with internal

and external) stakeholders will be vital to this role along with high level of commitment

to interact positively in a remote Aboriginal community.

Key Accountabilities

• Implement Council's civil construction and maintenance programs
• Build the capability of the department's operational team through on the job training and mentoring of local staff
• Assist the development and management of the department's budget processes and monitor the costs associated with the management of plant, equipment and other resources
• Ensure all civil construction plant and equipment is maintained to allow efficient use of resources to achieve road construction and maintenance requirements within budget
• Implement civil constructions and associated earth works
• Communicate road management and parks & gardens updates to the community in a timely manner
• Assist with the maintenance of the plant and infrastructure asset register for Council and comply with the Council's asset management plan
• Provide timely advice and monitor community feedback
• Ensure waste facility meets legislative requirements
• Ensure barge landing is functional and in accordance with legislative requirements
• Liaise with Council contractors in conjunction with external Project Managers
• Assist with disaster response under Council's disaster management plan
• Perform duties in accordance with the Council's policies including Work, Health and Safety and the Staff Code of Conduct

Qualifications, Skills and Attributes

Essential:

• Current Manual Driver's license
• White Card
• Current Police Check
• FEL, Excavator, bobcat, backhoe, telehandler, grader.

Desirable:

• Certificate III in Civil Construction Plant Operations (RII30813) or Certificate III in Civil Construction ( Road Construction and Maintenance) (RII30913)
• HR Licence
• Chainsaw ticket
• Demonstrated experience in successfully communicating, negotiating and interacting with Indigenous people and a demonstrated knowledge of First Nations culture and customs
• A sound understanding of the regulatory requirements for managing roads, drainage and bulk earthworks, and parks and gardens development and maintenance
• Proven ability to mentor and lead an operational team including trainees in civil construction works
• Knowledge of the Australian Standards relevant to civil construction works and Main Roads Standards
• Demonstrated knowledge of civil construction and maintenance, including supervision of Operators and Contractors
• An understanding of procurement documents to order supplies, equipment and services and the monitoring of operational budgets; including the preparation of estimates and reports as directed
• A demonstrated commitment to work place health and safety and the environment

Desirable

• Sound understanding and experience in Local Government Procurement of Materials and Services for Civil Infrastructure works.
• Certified in preparation and auditing of Traffic Control Plans
• Airport Reporting Officer (ARO) certification.
• Demonstrated understanding of and implementation of mobile solutions to streamline Civil Construction Activities.
• Understanding of Civil Aviation Safety Authority regulations, or ability to acquire knowledge.

Benefits

Joining ASC means becoming part of an organisation with strong cultural values with a focus on providing exceptional services to, and for, the community. You will be offered;

• A salary of $100,000 per annum plus superannuation and allowances
• 5 weeks annual leave & 3 weeks sick lweave per year
• Access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Where the successful applicant is sourced from outside the Shire of Aurukun and does

not already have access to public housing in the Shire:

• Subsidised accommodation provided
• Relocation expenses in accordance with Council policy
• 8 days of Isolation Leave per year in accordance with Council policy
• 2 Flights to Cairns from Aurukun per year in accordance with Council policy

How to apply

Click the Quick Apply button and include a cover letter and resume.

Applications close 4pm Friday 24 October 2025.

Shortlisting for this position will begin immediately and Council reserves the right fill the role prior to the nominated closing date. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

Appointment to this position is subject to a satisfactory National Police Check and pre-employment medical assessment.