Plant Operator

About the role

The Shire of Chapman Valley is seeking a full-time Plant Operator (Construction & Maintenance) – Backhoe Operator to operate plant and equipment (including a backhoe, loader and roller) and support the construction, maintenance and renewal of roads, drainage and other infrastructure assets. This role is part of the Works and Services team and reports to the Works Supervisor, with a focus on safety, teamwork and quality outcomes. The position also includes general labouring and site support duties and requires a reasonable level of physical fitness to safely perform these duties in outdoor conditions.

Key responsibilities

• Deliver safe and efficient operation of plant and equipment (including backhoe, loader and roller) to support the Shire's construction, maintenance and renewal program.
• Contribute to high-quality road, drainage and associated infrastructure outcomes by completing required earthworks, trenching, drainage and culvert-related tasks in accordance with standards and instructions.
• Maintain plant, vehicles and equipment in a serviceable condition by completing pre-start checks, routine operator maintenance and timely reporting of defects, damage, incidents and hazards.
• Maintain a safe worksite by applying WHS and risk management practices, including using required PPE, identifying hazards, implementing practical controls, and reporting/escalating hazards, incidents and near misses; stop work if conditions are unsafe.
• Comply with the Shire's risk management framework by identifying and reporting emerging risks and incidents and supporting the implementation of agreed controls within your work area.
• Work effectively under limited supervision, either independently or as part of a crew, using initiative and sound judgement within established procedures, standards and Shire policies.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors and team members regarding work priorities, sequencing, site conditions and safety matters, and complete basic records/reports as required.
• Maintain responsibility for the safe care, use and security of materials, tools, equipment and plant allocated to the position.
• Undertake general labouring and site support duties as part of the works crew (e.g., use of hand tools, manual handling, hand excavation/backfilling, lifting/carrying materials, installation support and worksite set-up/tidy-up).
• Undertake any other duties relevant to the position as directed by the Works Supervisor.

About you

• Demonstrated ability to operate a backhoe and heavy road construction plant safely and efficiently, including conducting pre-start checks and user maintenance (refuelling, lubrication and minor repairs).
• Developed experience in roadworks construction and/or maintenance activities (for example, earthworks, drainage and culvert works, trenching, clearing, loading and related tasks) with a focus on quality outcomes.
• Demonstrated commitment to Work Health and Safety (WHS) and risk management, including the ability to undertake general labouring and site support duties and traffic control (as required) safely, while maintaining the safety of co-workers, road users and members of the public.
• Sound communication skills and the ability to work effectively under limited supervision, both independently and as part of a team, to achieve common goals.
• Current Western Australian 'HR' Class Driver's Licence (mandatory).
• Minimum two (2) years' experience in a similar earthworks / civil construction / road maintenance plant operator role (desirable).
• Traffic Management / Traffic Controller ticket or willingness to obtain (desirable).
• Relevant qualification or certification, such as a Certificate II or III in Rural Operations, Civil Construction, Plant Operations or another relevant plant/engineering-related qualification (desirable).

About us

The Shire of Chapman Valley provides essential services and infrastructure that support the local community. Our workforce includes outdoor and works roles, office-based administration, customer service and specialist functions, with all employees contributing to community outcomes. Our workplace is characterised by a supportive, people-focused culture that encourages collaboration, purpose-led work that delivers outcomes for the community, varied work and opportunities to build capability and experience, a commitment to continuous improvement in how we deliver services, and a flexible environment that supports accountability and appropriate autonomy. The Shire is committed to providing a safe, respectful and inclusive workplace guided by our Behavioural Standards of Respect, Honesty & Integrity, Accountability, Communication and Teamwork.