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About the Company

SA Water is a successful, modern water utility wholly owned by the Government of South Australia. We employ more than 1,700 people across a broad range of disciplines who operate more than $14 billion worth of infrastructure to deliver essential water and sewerage services to more than 1.8 million South Australians.

We operate in a geographically and climatically diverse service area, with sites and locations from Ceduna through to Port Augusta, the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands, across to the Riverland, down to Mount Gambier, and most places in between.

Our strength and expertise have been shaped by our history. For more than 165 years, South Australians have depended on us to innovate and deliver efficient and sustainable water services. With nationally and internationally recognised industry expertise, we’re focused on understanding and meeting our customers’ expectations.

As well as safely delivering smart and reliable services for our customers of today, we innovate to shape the water solutions of the future that will support thriving economies and healthy communities.

We are driven by our values; we value our people, we do work that matters, we keep it real, we know that our work has impact and we are future focussed. Staying true to our values ensures that we consistently deliver positive outcomes for all South Australians.

About the Job

As a Wastewater Industry Trainee, you’ll gain exposure across our five Wastewater Treatment Plants in the Mount Gambier region, gaining hands‑on experience in how we manage wastewater treatment for the safety of our communities.

Across this two‑year traineeship, you’ll learn in a real operational environment and build practical skills in wastewater treatment, network maintenance, equipment repairs, and safe work practices. Every day brings something different, with opportunities to problem‑solve and contribute to the smooth running of our wastewater systems.

This traineeship is a great starting point for a long‑term career in the water industry. While completing a Certificate III in Water Operations, you’ll open pathways into many different roles within SA Water.

Operational requirements:

•  Work hours: 6:00am – 2:00pm

•  Daily travel and occasional intrastate travel

•  Participation in an on-call roster

•  Required vaccinations: Hep A, Hep B & Q Fever

•  Standard probity checks: standard medical assessment, police clearance, drivers licence check, two references, and right to work verification

•  Two-year maximum term contract (extension may be possible depending on business needs)

•  Salary: (Some allowances will be applicable)

Year 1: $46,958.51 + super

Year 2: $53,666.87 + super

About the Person

We’re looking for an Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicant who is practical, motivated, and ready to build a hands‑on career in the water industry. No previous experience is needed — just a strong work ethic, a willingness to learn, and a positive, can‑do attitude.

You will be someone who:

• Enjoys practical, hands‑on tasks and learning new skills
• Works well in a team and shows initiative
• Can follow safety procedures and stay focused
• Feels comfortable working outdoors and in operational environments
• Communicates respectfully and professionally
• Holds a current driver’s licence (P2 provisional and above accepted)
• Has completed schooling up to Year 10
• Identifies as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander (this is a targeted position)

About Operations and Maintenance

The Operations & Maintenance team oversees the management of our water, wastewater and River Murray activities and conducts operational control activities for a secure water supply. The team is responsible for both planned and unplanned maintenance activities, integrating corrective, preventive, predictive, and precision maintenance strategies. They aim to meet availability, performance, cost, and risk targets by leveraging technical asset maintenance and reliability expertise. Operations & Maintenance strives to deliver smart and reliable services to customers while enhancing overall operational efficiency.

Your focus learning areas will be: 

• Supporting the daily operation of the wastewater treatment plants
• Assisting with routine maintenance, such as cleaning filters, checking pumps and inspecting equipment
• Learning how to use operational systems like SCADA to monitor treatment processes
• Collecting and testing wastewater samples during various treatment stages
• Following all safety procedures, wearing PPE and being involved in safety briefings
• Attending training sessions, completing assessments and actively participating in your development

Further information can be found in the attached PD –  Wastewater Industry Trainee - First Nation.docx

To apply, click 'Apply'. Please submit and complete the application form, upload a cover letter and current resume. For enquiries, please contact Tayla from the Talent Acquisition team
tayla.pett@sawater.com.au

Applications close 5pm, Thursday 2nd April 2026.

A great customer experience is best achieved by having a diverse and inclusive team that reflects the community we serve. Applications are encouraged from everyone, including people living with disability, job seekers of all ages, members of the LGBTQA+ community, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and people from culturally diverse backgrounds.

Our Industry is like no other. Dive into the wonderful world of water and explore the boundless opportunities. Learn more about the water industry at careersinwater.com.au

Please note: We request that recruitment agencies do not submit candidates for this position, as they will not be accepted.