Plant Operator – Mirani

Looking for hands-on work that makes a real difference in your community? Mackay Regional Council is seeking skilled and motivated Plant Operators (Level 5) to join our Civil Operations team working out of our Mirani Depot. These roles support the construction and maintenance of roads, drainage and other essential civil infrastructure across the region.

Reporting to a Supervisor or Leading Hand, you will carry out a combination of plant operation, truck driving and labouring duties with limited supervision. You’ll work as part of a high-performing team delivering practical outcomes for the Mackay region while maintaining a strong focus on safety, quality and customer service.  

Key responsibilities

In this role you will:

• Operate ride-on equipment and light to medium mechanical plant safely and competently
• Operate heavy rigid trucks (≥22.5t GVM) and rigid truck and trailer combinations (up to 42.5t GCM)
• Undertake construction and maintenance works including earthworks, drainage, concreting, pipelaying, bitumen and vegetation activities
• Perform hands-on labouring tasks associated with civil infrastructure works
• Complete daily plant pre-start checks and assist with ongoing plant maintenance
• Provide traffic management and assist with safe worksite set-ups
• Maintain accurate records and complete required documentation
• Deliver high-quality service to internal and external customers
• Participate in training and support skill development within the team
• Work in accordance with WH&S and environmental legislation and best-practice standards.

About you

To be successful in this role, you will bring a strong work ethic, a positive attitude and the ability to adapt to changing work environments. You will also demonstrate sound plant operation and truck driving skills, along with the ability to work cooperatively within a team.

Mandatory requirements

Youmust hold:

• General Construction Safety “White” Card
• QLD Manual Car ‘C’ Class Open Driver’s Licence (or interstate equivalent – transferable within 3 months)
• QLD Heavy Rigid (HR) Truck Licence (or interstate equivalent – transferable within 3 months)
• Certificate of Competency to operate road construction plant (such as skid steer, roller, loader or backhoe)
• Traffic Management Implementation (TMI) qualification or the ability to obtain within 12 months.

Desirable

• Certificate III in Civil Construction
• Experience in concrete works
• Previous experience in road and drainage construction or maintenance

Why work with Mackay Regional Council?

• Base annual salary of $67,054 ($1,289 weekly) plus allowances as applicable
• Up to 18% superannuation (conditions apply).
• Choice of 4 or 5 weeks’ annual leave with 17.5% leave loading.
• 9-day fortnight roster.
• May be eligible for salary sacrificing options.
• Membership to lifestyle benefits program including corporate discounts.
• Study and assistance programs for career development.
• Learning and career development opportunities.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Employee health and wellbeing initiatives.
• Active Social Clubs.

How to apply

If you have the skills and licences required and enjoy hands-on work in an outdoor environment, we encourage you to apply. Applications close Thursday, 26 March 2026.

***Important information for applicants:

Applicants who progress beyond the interview stage will be required to undergo a pre-employment process, which includes comprehensive Pre-Employment Medical Assessments (inclusive of Drug and Alcohol testing).

We are an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer, where all applicants are treated fairly and respectfully and have equal access to all available opportunities. At Mackay Regional Council, diversity is about creating a respectful and inclusive workplace that recognises our employees' unique contributions and perspectives, working together to deliver extraordinary results.