Apprentice Plumber

• Opportunity to earn while you learn in a hands-on apprenticeship for up to four years
• Gain practical plumbing experience and competency maintaining and repairing essential infrastructure
• On the job mentoring and guidance to complete a Certificate III in Plumbing (General)
• Work in a supportive environment under the guidance of qualified professionals

About Mareeba Shire Council

Located in beautiful Far North Queensland where the rainforest meets the Outback, the Mareeba Shire provides an idyllic, regional lifestyle with the convenience of being only an hour from an international airport, cafes, restaurants, theatres and tropical beaches in the regional city of Cairns.

Mareeba Shire Council is a high-performing, community-focussed organisation with over 200 dedicated staff. Our recent budget was praised in the media for its considered and sensible approach, demonstrating our commitment to financial responsibility and community investment. This is a unique opportunity to join a well-regarded council making a real impact across the region.

The role

The primary focus of the Apprentice Plumber is to complete a Certificate III in Plumbing (General) over a 48-month period while undertaking a range of related activities required for the completion of the apprenticeship. The role involves supporting the day-to-day operations of the Water Reticulation team. The Apprentice Plumber will assist with construction, maintenance and repairs to Council’s water and wastewater infrastructure, while acquiring a range of skills and experience in a variety of plumbing functions, under the support and direction of Council’s qualified Plumbers and the Supervisor Water Reticulation.

The position calls for physically demanding work to be undertaken in a hot and humid climate on a daily basis. It is the responsibility of the Apprentice Plumber to ensure they are and remain physically fit and able to efficiently and consistently undertake these tasks. In the latter stages of the apprenticeship, the position may be required to assist with after-hours work and be part of an on-call support roster for the Water & Waste section.

What we are looking for

The ideal candidate for the Apprentice Plumber position will demonstrate a strong commitment to learning and a proactive attitude towards skill development, alongside the ability to work effectively within a team setting. You will possess sound written, numerical and digital literacy skills, with some experience in Microsoft Office. A willingness to follow instructions, ask for help and contribute to a collaborative team environment are key to success in this role. Ideally, you will have:

• Current Queensland C class driver’s license or learner’s permit
• Year 10 Certificate or higher
• Current immunisations/vaccinations for Hepatitis B and Tetanus
• Basic school-based training in plumbing or previous work experience in related fields (desirable)

You will be an Australian or New Zealand citizen, Australian permanent resident or have unrestricted work rights in Australia. Mareeba Shire Council does not offer employer visa sponsorship.

What we can offer you

• Opportunity to achieve an accredited trade qualification
• Temporary position for period of apprenticeship (nominal period is 48 months)
• Above Award apprentice wages and conditions with annual progression
• First Year commencing at $37,908 per annum (comprised of base wage of $34,197, Mareeba Allowance of $2,080 per annum and Tradesperson Allowance of $1,630 per annum) with increases after completion of each year level
• Other Award allowances as applicable
• 12% employer superannuation contributions
• 5 weeks annual leave with 17.5% leave loading
• Work life balance – 9-day fortnight
• Lifestyle benefits such as access to Fitness Passport, discounted health insurance, gift cards and corporate banking
• Learning and development opportunities
• Salary sacrificing options

For further information

Please refer to the position description, or contact Anthony Musso, Supervisor Water Reticulation, on 0409 123 704 (during business hours only).

How to apply

If you are ready to embark on a rewarding career in plumbing, click on the Apply Now button below to start your application. Applications must contain your current resume and a short cover letter.

Please note, Mareeba Shire Council does not offer visa sponsorship and you must be either an Australian or New Zealand citizen, Australian permanent resident or have unrestricted work rights in Australia to be considered for this position.

Applications close Friday, 5 December 2025.

Mareeba Shire Council is committed to the principles of Equal Opportunity and workplace diversity. We encourage a diverse workforce reflective of our community to better meet the needs of our customers.