Vegetation Control Officer - Townsville

We are a large and fully integrated infrastructure business chartered with a responsibility that is pivotal to the success of Queensland and its people. Our culture is one based on safety and performance.

What’s on offer

• Permanent position with an industry leader
• Potential annual salary of $110,000 including penalties + 12.75% super
• Travel on paid work time + accommodation and travel allowance
• Strong focus on safety
• Access to QR's employee benefits

About the role

As a Vegetation Control Officer, you will play a critical role in ensuring effective and efficient vegetation management across Network North, both on and off track, in compliance with relevant legislation. You will be responsible for safely applying herbicides and delivering a cost-effective, timely service while maintaining high standards of safety and environmental compliance.

Key focuses

Herbicide Application: Efficiently operate the spray truck and other supplied equipment to apply herbicide to the permanent way, station yards, sidings, and other infrastructure, following the prepared spraying program. Ensure compliance with the Agricultural Chemicals Distribution Control Act and the Rural Lands Protection Act at all times.

Safety and Compliance: Prioritize safety in all tasks and follow Queensland Rail's Safety and Environment Management System. Your commitment to safety will support Queensland Rail's goal of achieving ZERO Harm.

Equipment Maintenance: Perform basic maintenance on the spraying system, pumps, and plumbing. Coordinate servicing and repairs for the spray truck and related equipment to ensure they are in optimal working condition.

Herbicide and Equipment Management: Manage the storage and inventory of herbicides and spraying equipment at your depot, ensuring proper distribution and adherence to safety protocols. Maintain a clean and safe depot environment that meets audit requirements.

Vegetation Inspections and Planning: Inspect vegetation within the Regional Network Manager's area of control. Assist in preparing the annual district herbicide spray program and conduct annual audits of declared plants within the Network. Track the effectiveness of treatments applied to declared plants.

Collaboration and Relationship Building: Foster strong relationships through regular consultation with the Vegetation Specialist, Queensland Rail's Environmental section, operations and planning teams, herbicide suppliers, local authorities, and the Department of Natural Resources & Environment.

Training and Development: Participate in ongoing programs and training to ensure high performance. Engage in succession planning and staff appraisals to meet the evolving needs of the business and customers.

To succeed in this role, you will need:

• Previous experience working with herbicides is an advantage.

• An MR Licence is preferred.
• Flexibility to travel and work across the region.
• Availability for occasional night shifts.
• Ability to work autonomously within a small 2-person team.

Hours and Salary

Please carefully consider the following details before applying:

The Vegetation Control team covers a large area of North, Far North, and West Queensland, and substantial regional travel, including overnight stays, is required.

Regional work typically follows a 9 days on, 5 days off roster, running from Tuesday to the following Wednesday, including weekends. While working away, you will receive a working away allowance, as well as penalty rates for weekend work and overtime.

In Townsville, the roster is a 9-day fortnight, Monday to Friday. Standard workdays are 8.5 hours, with potential overtime and night shifts based on business needs.

This is a permanent opportunity with a starting base salary of $84,671 + 12.75% superannuation, plus shift penalties and allowances. Working the current roster, there is the potential to earn over $110,000 annually (including penalties and allowances).

Overtime is available but must be approved in line with business requirements and our fatigue management policy.

Click here to view the full Position Description.

We look forward to hearing from motivated individuals who are ready to make an impact and work as part of a dedicated team!
 

Supporting a Diverse Workforce

Apply for the Vegetation Control Officer role via our website by clicking the Apply button before midnight on Sunday 5th of January 2025.

Queensland Rail acknowledges the Traditional Owners and Elders of the lands and waterways our network traverses.

We’re a team of thousands and we’re proud of our individual, diverse journeys and stories. Like the communities of Queensland, there is a home for everyone at Queensland Rail.

We are committed to providing a barrier-free recruitment process that is fair, equitable, and accessible to all. If you would like to discuss how we can support your application via reasonable adjustments, please contact Nancy Sanday via email at nancy.sanday@qr.com.au.