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 Water Industry Trainee, you’ll work alongside our Operations team to support the maintenance and repair of essential water networks across Clare and the surrounding region. This traineeship will give you hands-on field experience and structured learning as you develop practical skills and build your career in the water industry.

This is an identified position open to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants only, under sub-section 56(2) of the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (SA).

About You

We’re looking for someone practical, reliable, and ready to kickstart their career in water. No prior experience is required, just a strong work ethic, willingness to learn, and a can-do attitude.

You’ll be someone who:

• Enjoys hands-on work and learning new skills
• Works well in a team and shows initiative
• Can follow safety instructions and stay focused on the task
• Is comfortable working outdoors in all weather
• Communicates respectfully and positively with others
• Holds a current driver's licence (required)

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 Responsibilities in This Role

As a Water Industry Trainee, you’ll contribute to the delivery of reliable water services by supporting a wide range of field-based tasks while undertaking a Certificate III in Water Operations. You'll learn on the job, working alongside experienced team members as you:

• Assist with the operation and maintenance of water networks
• Support fault response, routine maintenance, and repair activities
• Participate in excavation, trench work, and basic land management tasks
• Work safely in a range of environments, including confined spaces and outdoor conditions
• Represent SA Water in a respectful and professional manner when engaging with the community
• Attend scheduled training, complete required assessments, and actively participate in learning and development
• Follow safety procedures and contribute to a positive, safety-focused team culture

You may also be required to participate in after-hours work or on-call duties as your skills develop.

Your Success in This Role Will Come From:

• A willingness to learn and complete both on-the-job and formal training (TAFE)
• The ability to work effectively in a team and follow clear instructions
• Sound communication skills and a respectful, customer-focused approach
• A commitment to safety, with an understanding of basic WHS principles
• Basic practical skills, such as using hand tools or equipment (training provided)
• Holding a current driver’s licence (required)

Standard hours: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM, with on-call and overtime responsibilities (overtime rates apply).

What We Offer

• A paid traineeship with structured learning and mentoring
• Valuable industry experience in a respected essential services provider
• Support from Aboriginal mentors and staff networks
• A culturally inclusive and respectful workplace
• Opportunities for ongoing development and employment beyond the traineeship

Further information can be found in the attached PD – Position Description - Water Industry Trainee.pdf

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

Applications close 4pm, 9th April 2025.

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 LGBTIQA+ 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.