Plant Operator – Backhoe

About the role

Townsville City Council is seeking an experienced, safety‑focused Plant Operator to operate a backhoe and other civil construction plant. You will support the construction, maintenance and repair of road and drainage infrastructure for the community.

Key responsibilities

• Operate a backhoe, road rollers, skid steers and mini excavators on municipal projects.
• Carry out construction and maintenance activities on roads, drainage and other infrastructure.
• Perform pre‑start checks, risk assessments and adhere to worksite safety requirements.
• Maintain plant through routine inspections, cleaning and minor maintenance, reporting faults promptly.
• Load, restrain and transport plant and equipment safely when required.
• Participate in toolbox meetings and continuous improvement initiatives.

Required profile

• Reliable, experienced plant operator with a strong safety focus.
• Ability to work outdoors, as part of a crew, and contribute to community infrastructure.
• Good communication skills and a customer‑focused approach.

Required skills

• Demonstrated experience operating a backhoe and other civil construction plant.
• Basic mechanical knowledge for plant inspections and daily maintenance.
• Knowledge of construction and maintenance activities for local government infrastructure.

What we offer

• Base salary $70,058 per annum plus superannuation (13.5%).
• 5 weeks annual leave with 17.5% loading, 3 weeks personal/carer leave, 14 weeks paid parental leave.
• Uniforms and PPE provided, annual wage progression, up to 13.5% super contribution.
• Learning and development opportunities, fitness passport, employee loyalty discounts, assistance program.