Waste Operations Traineeship

What you’ll do -

Whilst studying a Certificate III in Waste Management working with Shoalhaven City Council over 18 months, you’ll have the opportunity to work on:

• Work within a diverse team in leading Recycling and Resource Recovery operation at Councils Recycling and Waste Facilities.
• Perform recycling operations in several ways from manual separation, to using mobile plant, to high tech fixed plant and sorting equipment
• Complete duties within different operational areas such as: Transfer area, Garden organics & Bulky Waste pick-up, Weighbridge/gatehouse, buy-back centre, recycling attendant duties and many more.
• Operate earthmoving plant and heavy vehicles

What we're looking for -

To be successful in this role, you'll need to meet the following selection criteria:

• Good literacy and numeracy skills
• Demonstrated ability for high safety standards
• Proven ability to work as part of a team
• Keen and enthusiastic about learning new skills
• Commitment to completing the traineeship

Must-haves -

• Demonstrate willingness to learn and develop new skills and knowledge
• Ongoing commitment to safety, quality, and principles of continuous improvement
• Ability to work without constant direct supervision and make sound decisions independently
• Current drivers licence (P1 preferred, but open to Learners working towards obtaining P1)
• WHS Construction Induction (White Card), or willingness to obtain
• Willingness to undergo a pre-employment medical (audiometry, spirometry, drug and alcohol screening, and functional capacity assessment)

Why Zeal Futures?

We do more than just get you a job. We employ you and back you the whole way – with training, mentoring, guidance, support and real career opportunities. Real income, real skills.

Perks include:

• Nationally recognised training
• Access to coaching, training & support
• Discounts on Health & Wellbeing services
• Counselling and ongoing mentoring
• Opportunities to rotate across employers for further exposure.

How to apply

• Click “Apply” or visit zealfutures.com.au/vacancies
• Upload your resume and a short cover letter
• We’ll be in touch with next steps if you are successful!

What’s next?

After submitting your online application, you may be invited to complete online testing, interviews, and pre-employment medicals. We’ll also contact your references if you progress through these recruitment stages. Please be sure to check your emails (including your junk folder) and respond to missed phone calls, voicemail messages and text messages.

Questions? Contact Tas Gool on [0400 131 046](tel:0400 131 046)

Applications close 13th November 2026.

Zeal Futures is an equal opportunity employer and proud Diversity Champion. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds – including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, women in trades, mature-age applicants, and people with disabilities or diverse cultural backgrounds. If you require assistance with the recruitment process (for instance, this may be filling out forms, interviews, or completing online tests), please contact your recruitment representative. We are happy to provide any necessary reasonable adjustments or assistance you may need.  Please do not hesitate to ask for any help. We look forward to hearing from you.