• Whether you are already studying engineering or just starting out, we are here to support your journey with practical hands-on experience and tailored pathways.
• Join a collaborative team and contribute to the delivery of vital civil projects while building a strong foundation for a career in civil engineering.
• Earn an attractive salary tailored to your age and experience, offering excellent remuneration for a traineeship.
• Generous benefits, including paid training, 5 weeks of annual leave, long service leave after 5 years, flex leave arrangements, and more!

About us:

Walgett Shire Council proudly serves a diverse and unique region in the heart of outback New South Wales. Covering over 22,000 square kilometres, the Shire includes the towns of Walgett, Lightning Ridge, and Collarenebri, along with the villages of Carinda, Cumborah, Rowena, and Burren Junction, as well as expansive rural areas. With a population of approximately 7,000, the Shire supports key industries such as agriculture, grazing, grain handling, opal mining, and tourism.

Nestled at the junction of the Namoi and Barwon Rivers, Walgett is rich in history and natural beauty. Once a bustling paddle-steamer port, it is now the northern gateway to the iconic Darling River Run, offering breathtaking landscapes and a deep connection to Australia’s heritage.

Just an hour north, Lightning Ridge is famed for its vibrant opal mining culture and distinctive outback charm. Whether it’s fossicking for opals, exploring underground art galleries, soaking in naturally heated artesian springs, or enjoying the tranquillity of river fishing, the region offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

Life in Walgett Shire offers the best of outback living—open skies, a strong sense of community, and endless opportunities to explore. For more information about Walgett and the Lightning Ridge area, please click here.

About the role:

Walgett Shire Council is looking towards the future, building a strong foundation of talent to meet the evolving needs of our organisation and to give back to the community. As part of this vision, Council is recruiting trainees, apprentices, and cadets across multiple disciplines. These roles are designed to foster a culture of learning and growth, providing opportunities to gain hands-on experience and develop skills that will set you up for long-term success.

To help you thrive in your chosen career path, all trainees, apprentices, and cadets will be brought together as a support network, creating an environment of collaboration, encouragement, and shared learning. This program reflects Council’s commitment to building capacity within our organisation and empowering individuals to achieve their career goals.

You will be provided with paid time during work hours to complete your assignments and attend formal training sessions, ensuring you can focus on both your practical and theoretical learning. Council will cover all VET course fees and any required travel, offering you the support needed to succeed in your course and achieve your career goals. Assistance towards university fees will be discussed with the successful candidate.

As a Cadet Civil Engineer, you will work across Council’s civil works and infrastructure services, gaining practical experience in planning, design, and project delivery while pursuing formal studies in engineering. Whether you are already studying or just beginning your journey, we will work with you to determine the best pathway forward. This role is designed to provide real-world experience in asset management, maintenance, and civil construction projects, giving you the skills and knowledge to advance your career in civil engineering. The salary and pathway will be tailored to your age, qualifications, and experience, ensuring the right fit for the successful candidate.

If you are eager to learn, committed to developing your skills, and excited to contribute to the future of your community, this opportunity could be exactly what you are looking for. These roles are not just for school leavers. Walgett Shire Council is an equal opportunity employer, welcoming applications from all backgrounds. Whether you are just finishing school, returning to the workforce, or looking to change careers, we encourage you to apply.

About you:

• A strong interest in civil engineering and a commitment to learning and professional growth.
• Currently enrolled in or willing to commence an Advanced Diploma or Bachelor of Engineering at an Australian institution.
• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyse complex issues and apply theoretical knowledge to practical challenges.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and engage effectively with stakeholders.
• Strong organisational and time management skills, enabling you to balance study commitments and work responsibilities effectively.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) and the ability to learn and use engineering-related software.
• A proactive and adaptable attitude with a focus on delivering quality outcomes in a professional environment.
• A current Australian Class C Driver Licence (P1 or above).

At Walgett Shire Council, we understand that not every candidate will meet every criterion, and that is perfectly fine—your passion and potential matter most to us.

Please Note: Due to funding restrictions, Council is unable to employ persons who have already completed or who have less than two years left before they are qualified. This opportunity is for persons who have not commenced or still have at least two years left for their chosen qualification. 

The full position description can be viewed by clicking here.

What we offer:

• A weekly salary determined by your age, experience and current level of qualifications, starting from $803.30 up to $1194.60 per week plus superannuation.
• Access to essential tools of the trade.
• Generous benefits, including 5 weeks of annual leave and long service leave after 5 years.
• Flex-time arrangements, promoting a healthy work/life balance.
• Professional development opportunities to support your growth and success.
• Employee Assistance Program available to support you and your family through all life’s challenges.
• Exceptional working conditions within a family-friendly and supportive environment.

How to apply:

To apply, follow the instructions below, where you will be diverted to our website and requested to complete the selection criteria and attach your resume and cover letter. All correspondence regarding your application status and interview will be forwarded via email.

1. Complete the information below as requested
2. Click ‘NEXT’
3. Attach your resume and cover letter
4. Click ‘NEXT’ and ‘CONFIRM’ 

A failure to answer selection criteria and to attach your resume will result in your application being rejected.

Further information regarding the online application process may be obtained by contacting Council’s People and Culture Team via email peopleandculture@walgett.nsw.gov.au 

Please Note: All correspondence regarding your application status and interview will be sent to you via email.

Closing date for applications:

Applications close at 5.00 pm on Monday, 27 January 2025.

Council reserves the right to close, withdraw or extend vacancies without prior notice.

Walgett Shire Council is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We encourage applications from people with disabilities, culturally and linguistically diverse persons, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, veterans, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.