Team Manager Water Resource and Dam Safety

Division/Section: Infrastructure and Operations / Water

Position Type: Fixed Term Full Time (4yr contract, 10 day fortnight, 38 hours/week)

Salary Range: Competitive salary package + conditions and benefitis

Location: 3 Dalrymple Service Road, Garbutt

Application Close: 11:45pm, Sunday 28 June 2026

Our Water section core business is to provide water supply and wastewater services to the Townsville Community, including the treatment and supply of potable water, the collection and processing of wastewater, and the supply of recycled water.

We’re looking for an experienced and capable senior leader to take charge of Council’s water resources and dam safety operations.

This is a key people and strategic leadership role responsible for leading a large, multi-disciplinary team across dam operations, water compliance and treatment plant operations. You’ll turn Council’s strategic direction into real outcomes by driving major projects, improving service delivery, and ensuring we continue to provide safe, reliable and cost-effective water and wastewater services to the community.

Working closely with senior leaders, Councillors and external partners, you’ll also play a critical role in shaping the city’s future through the delivery of our Water Services Strategy 2025-2030.

This role requires strong technical knowledge backed by proven leadership experience as you’ll oversee dam safety, regulatory compliance and treatment operations, making sure all assets meet required standards and guidelines. At the same time, you’ll build a high-performing team, mentor staff and drive a strong culture of accountability, innovation and continuous improvement.

You’ll manage significant budgets, lead capital programs and help develop practical, sustainable solutions that support the ongoing growth of Townsville. During emergency events, you’ll also step into key response roles, providing specialist engineering support when it matters most.

Qualifications And Experience Include

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering in a field relevant to the role. RPEQ Certification essential.
• Postgraduate qualification in Business Management would be highly desirable.
• Outstanding contemporary leadership skills and behaviours, to positively engage across the Divisions and with key stakeholders.
• Experience in strong financial and budget management and managing the performance of community assets and lifestyle.
• Strategic and policy acuity, with the ability to influence and shape attitudes and behaviours and engage Council staff.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with particular emphasis in the areas of consultation, advocacy, negotiation, influencing, conflict resolution and assertiveness to resolve issues and meet changing organisational needs.
• Extensive experience in managing complex projects with demonstrated achievements in planning, design, governance, cost management, implementation, commissioning and reporting to the CEO.
• Demonstrated success as a Senior Manager in a large diverse organisation.
• Substantial experience in the Water and Wastewater Industry or equivalent work experience in a technical field.
• Detailed knowledge of legislation relevant to the provision of water and waste services.

For Further Information Review The Position Description.

Please also refer to this link on our council website, where you can see information on our water team: Water Supply & Dams - Townsville City Council

Recruitment agencies are encouraged to contact our team if they have candidates that meet these set of skills

Townsville City Council is the largest local government authority in Northern Australia. We’re committed to supporting our people through a strong focus on work–life balance, a positive and inclusive culture, and a shared passion for making a meaningful impact in our community.

We have a range of benefits that confirm this commitment:

• 4 weeks annual leave
• 10 days Personal/Carers Leave
• 14 weeks paid Parental Leave
• Domestic and Family Violence Leave
• Natural Disaster Leave
• Long Service Leave available pro rata after seven years
• Salary Sacrifice opportunities
• Learning and Development opportunities
• Fitness Passport program offering discounted membership to selected gym, pool, and yoga facilities
• Employee Loyalty Program offering discounts at selected local businesses
• Employee Assistance Program
• The Council contribution to employees' superannuation for contributing employees shall be 13.5% of the employees' ordinary time earnings subject to the employee contributing a minimum of 6% of their ordinary time earnings.

Contact Person: Janis (Talent Acquisition Officer)

Contact Email: ***email_hidden***

How To Apply

Your application can be submitted through the 'Apply' button. Please include a cover letter (maximum 2 pages), outlining how your skills, qualifications and experience would allow you to achieve success in this role. We also will require your resume which should confirm any licences and qualifications your hold.

For Further Information Review The Position Description.

We are committed to creating a safe and inclusive workplace where diverse styles, backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are valued, encouraged, and respected. People from diverse backgrounds (including but not limited to, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, people with diverse gender identities and sexualities, people from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds, people with disability, and veterans) are encouraged to apply!

All successful candidates are required to undergo drug and alcohol testing as part of the recruitment process. Please be aware Townsville City Council has a ‘zero tolerance’ policy to drugs and alcohol in the workplace.

If you need any adjustments to be made to the recruitment process or if you would like to discuss any accessibility requirements, please contact [email protected] or phone 07 4727 9004 for a confidential discussion.

Attachments

• TM Water Resource Dam Safety_PD.pdf