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Water Industry Trainee
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
Over this two‑year program, you’ll learn directly in a live treatment plant environment, building practical skills in water treatment processes, network maintenance, system repairs and safe work practices. Each day brings variety and problem‑solving opportunities as you contribute to keeping our water systems running smoothly.
This traineeship is an excellent launching pad for a long‑term career in the water industry, opening pathways into a range of roles within SA Water whilst undertaking a Certificate III in Water Operations.
About the Person
We’re looking for someone practical, motivated, and ready to build a hands‑on career in the water industry. You don’t need previous experience—just a strong work ethic, a willingness to learn, and a positive, can‑do attitude.
You’ll be someone who:
- Enjoys practical, hands‑on tasks and learning new skills
- Works well as part of a team and shows initiative
- Can follow safety procedures and remain focused
- Is comfortable working outdoors and in operational environments
- Communicates respectfully and professionally
- Holds a current driver’s licence (required)
- Completed up to year 10
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:
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Assisting with the daily operation of the water treatment plant
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Supporting general maintenance tasks, such as cleaning filters, checking pumps, and ensuring equipment is in safe working order
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Learning to use operational systems such as SCADA to monitor plant performance
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Collecting and testing water samples at various treatment stages
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Following all safety procedures, wearing PPE, and participating in safety briefings
- Attend scheduled training, complete required assessments, and actively participate in learning and development
Further information can be found in the attached PD – 
Water Industry Trainee
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, Friday 6th February 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 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.
