About Us
We are the regional water supply authority, providing bulk water to council areas across the Northern Rivers. Serving a population of around 100,000 across 3,000km², we play a vital role in ensuring reliable water supply. Additionally, we tackle weed biosecurity across the region and are committed to flood mitigation across Ballina, Lismore, and the Richmond Valley.
Kickstart your career and connect with community to make a meaningful impact on the Northern Rivers region of NSW. Work alongside experienced professionals and gain the opportunity to contribute to the protection of natural landscapes, the preservation of traditional cultural practices, and the enhancement of biodiversity through hands-on environmental and land care programs.
Job Description:
Earn an income while completing a nationally recognised qualification. We are seeking motivated individuals to join a traineeship program. This is an exciting opportunity that offers practical experience in resource management, cultural heritage safeguarding, and ecosystem protection.
Individuals with this qualification may perform a range of roles under broad direction on land and water, including:
- rangers (park, on Country, discovery)
- tour guides
- council workers
- land management corporations' employees
- bushland management officers
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural and heritage officers.
What We Offer:
- Culturally rich and meaningful training tailored to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, with mentorship that honours traditional knowledge and integrates contemporary land management practices.
- Hands-on experience in on-Country management, combining environmental care with community-centred projects.
- A supportive and inclusive environment dedicated to your professional and cultural development.
- Opportunities to contribute directly to the sustainability and preservation of Country within the Northern Rivers region.
- A competitive salary aligned with the Local Government (State) Award, with adjustments based on your age and schooling completion date, plus 11.5% superannuation contributions.
- Four weeks of annual leave, alongside additional time for culturally significant commitments and mandatory study requirements.
- Flexible work arrangements, including eligibility for a nine-day fortnight schedule, subject to operational needs.
- Access to a Fitness Passport membership, providing discounted entry to a variety of local fitness centres, pools, and gyms.
- A workplace culture that respects and celebrates diversity, recognising the unique strengths and perspectives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees.
About you
You are of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent. Identifying as an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person, and are accepted as such by the Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander community.
Have a positive can-do attitude and like to be part of a multi-disciplinary team partnering with your colleagues and the community in the delivery of exciting projects.
Apply now to support our community and local region.
Key Responsibilities of the Role:
- Apply environmentally sustainable work practices.
- Contribute to workplace health and safety processes.
- Follow Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultural protocols.
- Maintain and care for cultural places.
- Provide information on Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Peoples' cultural practices.
- Work collaboratively with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Communities or organisations.
- Observe and report on plants and animals in the field.
- Apply animal trapping techniques safely and effectively.
- Read and interpret maps for fieldwork activities.
- Conduct photography for field documentation and reporting.
- Deliver CPR and First Aid support as required.
What You’ll Gain:
Throughout this 12-month traineeship, you will work while studying to comple nationally accredited modules, develop industry-relevant skills, and gain valuable insights into environmental management and cultural heritage practices.
This is your chance to secure an income whilst working alongside a supportive and knowledgeable team at Rous County Council.
Take the first step towards an impactful, rewarding career—apply today!
Desired Skills and Experience:
The ideal candidate would have a keen interest in environmental conservation, land management, and collaborating respectfully with diverse communities, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Key desirable skills include cultural awareness, effective communication, and a willingness to learn and follow cultural protocols. A passion for protecting the environment, an understanding of sustainable land practices, and the ability to work in a team. Basic knowledge of conservation practices, as well as a commitment to outdoor work are also desirable.
Interested? Click APPLY.
Helpful resources to assist in answering selection criteria can be found on the Careers page.
Applications close: 4pm - 15/01/2025
Notice of Office Closure
Our office will be closed from 20 December 2024 to 6 January 2025. We look forward to reviewing your application and interest when we return.
In the meantime, please feel free to register your interest by emailing us at hr@rous.nsw.gov.au. Thank you for your understanding, and we wish you a safe and happy holiday season.