Job Description

Make the difference that matters.

Use your water treatment skills to help keep essential Defence water services safe, reliable and compliant.

Join Downer’s Property and Asset Services (PAS) team at RAAF Williamtown as a Water Treatment Operator. Working under the supervision of your Leading Hand, you’ll operate and maintain small to medium water treatment plants, monitor water quality and complete basic preventative maintenance. It’s practical work with a clear purpose: supporting the essential services Defence communities rely on.

Permanent | 40 hours M – F | $38.83 per hour + super + applicable allowances

Why this role

• Be part of something big: Put your water treatment skills to work supporting essential Defence facilities, helping maintain water quality and reliable plant operations.
• Support you can count on: Work alongside a safety-first PAS team, with guidance from your Leading Hand, Perks@Downer savings and confidential Employee Assistance Program support.
• Shape your future: Build your operational capability through opportunities for skill development and progression.
• Time for what matters: 40 hours per week with an accrued RDO every 4 weeks. Eligible operators may receive additional allowances, including on-call allowances ranging from $71.37 to $164.70 per day, plus applicable tool, first aid and meal allowances.

What you’ll do

• Operate and monitor small to medium water treatment plants in accordance with standard operating procedures, Defence requirements and applicable safety and environmental obligations.
• Complete routine plant inspections, water quality sampling and testing, maintaining accurate plant logs, operational data and compliance records.
• Handle and store chemicals safely, and adjust chemical dosing and treatment processes under supervision.
• Carry out basic preventative maintenance, report equipment faults promptly to your Leading Hand and assist trades and contractors with maintenance and repair work.
• Keep tools, equipment and work areas clean and serviceable, and support other PAS site services within your training and skill level.

What you’ll bring

• Certificate III in Water Industry Operations and Chemical Handling Certification.
• NSW Water Operator Certification (NSW)
• At least one year’s experience in water treatment plant operations or a related field, including chemical handling and dosing in a plant environment.
• Experience recording operational data and preparing compliance reports, with exposure to water quality sampling and basic laboratory testing.
• A reliable, team-focused approach, clear communication, attention to detail and basic computer skills for accurate record keeping and reporting.
• The ability to obtain and retain a Defence security clearance; Australian citizenship is required.
• A current first aid certificate, Confined Space and Working at Heights qualifications, a White Card and relevant site access credentials are desirable.

About Downer

Downer plans, creates and sustains essential public services across Australia and New Zealand. Our Base and Estate Management team supports the Australian Defence Force by delivering the services and infrastructure Defence communities rely on.

We’re committed to a workplace where everyone feels respected, valued and able to contribute. We welcome applications from people with varied backgrounds and experiences. If you require adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.

Apply now

Ready to put your water treatment skills to work? Select Apply Now and submit your CV together with copies of your relevant qualifications, licences and certificates.