Trainee Aboriginal Environmental Health Officer

About the role

Lismore Council offers a six-year traineeship for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people, combining full-time employment with part-time distance study of a Bachelor of Science (Environmental Health) at Western Sydney University. You will work alongside experienced Environmental Health Officers who mentor you, earning while you learn. The role strengthens Aboriginal representation in local government and protects the health, safety and environment of the community.

Key responsibilities

• Assist with inspections of onsite sewerage management systems, food premises, swimming pools, skin penetration businesses and other regulated facilities.
• Respond to community enquiries and help investigate complaints.
• Support community education initiatives that promote and protect public health and the environment.

Required profile

• Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person by descent and identity, recognised as such by the community.
• Eligible to enrol in the Bachelor of Science (Environmental Health) at Western Sydney University.
• Committed to completing the degree part-time while working full-time (70 hours a fortnight).
• Able to travel up to one week at a time, several times per year, to university residential schools, work placements and training programs.

Required skills

• Good communication and written skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Current driver's licence.

What we offer

• Part-time, distance study of the Bachelor of Science (Environmental Health) with paid study leave and tutoring support.
• University fees paid for all subjects successfully completed.
• Structured, hands-on training and mentoring in the workplace.
• Access to the NSW Health Aboriginal Environmental Health Officer Trainee Network.
• Salary starting at $1,169.90 per week plus superannuation.

The closing date is Monday 16 November 2026 at 4:00pm. Pre-employment checks and an immunisation program apply; conditions of employment are under the Local Government (State) Award.