Permanent Full Time
Band 3 – $70,811 – $75,186 per annum, plus industry allowance (plus super)About Us
Located 35km to the southeast of Melbourne, Greater Dandenong City Council covers 129 square kilometres and has a population of over 169,000 people. The central activities district is Melbourne's second largest retail and commercial centre and includes large shopping complexes at Dandenong and Keysborough as well as the highly popular Dandenong Market.
Greater Dandenong is the most culturally diverse locality in Australia, with residents from over 150 different birthplaces, nearly two-thirds of whom were born overseas. Key industries include manufacturing, health care and social assistance, retail trade, wholesale trade and transport.
We are a progressive organisation of exceptional character that offers a dynamic and rewarding work environment to approximately 900 employees. We recognise that our staff are vital to the delivery of excellent service to our community and the achievement of our long-term vision. We invest in the development of our people, and we strive to be a workplace that is respectful, engaged, accountable, creative and honest.
About the role
This is a practical, hands-on role delivering mowing and open space grass maintenance across the City of Greater Dandenong.
As Plant Operator with the Open Space Mowing team, you’ll ensure Council’s grassed areas, parks and reserves are maintained to a high standard. You’ll work through daily mowing schedules and respond flexibly to changing ground conditions or customer requests.
The role plays an important part in maintaining the amenity, presentation and safety of public open space. You’ll operate and maintain a wide range of equipment, and take direction from your crew leader as required.
About you
You’re an experienced operator with a background in horticulture or open space maintenance, and strong technical skills in mowing programs and the use of machinery. You thrive in an outdoor, team-based environment and take pride in delivering well-presented and functional open space for the community.
As an experienced operator, you enjoy engaging in daily work, engaging with you crew mates, and ensuring high standards of safety, quality and service. You’re organised, adaptable and committed to improving service outcomes through innovation and teamwork.
Key requirements
- Trade Certificate in Parks and Gardens, or Certificate III in Horticulture (or equivalent).
- Demonstrated knowledge of open space mowing programs and problem-solving skills.
- Skills in the safe and competent operation of plant and equipment, including tractors, mowers, brush cutters, edgers and blowers.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a customer service focus.
- Ability to manage time effectively, establish priorities and achieve objectives under pressure.
- PC literacy, including MS Office and mobile scheduling systems.
- Current Victorian Driver’s Licence.
- Satisfactory Working with Children Check and Police Check.
Please ensure you address the key selection criteria outlined in the position description as part of your application.
You may be required to undertake practical testing, work preference profiling / psychometric testing, functional capacity assessment (physical) or aptitude testing.
The successful candidate will be asked to produce a clear Working with Children Check and will be asked to consent to a national police check (and where relevant an ‘international criminal history check’), subject to the operation of spent conviction laws. Please note that people with criminal records are not automatically barred from applying for this position. Each application will be considered on its merits.
Benefits of working with us
Council believes in providing an environment where staff thrive, both in the work they do and in how they learn and develop as people and professionals.
Our workplace has an inclusive and diverse culture which encourages innovation and supports your work and life balance. There are plenty of opportunities to learn, develop and grow your career within our expanding and diverse organisation.
Our benefits include:
- Competitive salary
- Salary sacrifice childcare (where available)
- Access to learning & development programs including study assistance
- Reward & recognition programs
- Health initiatives
- Access to our support and wellbeing programs
- A vibrant social club
Council will consider flexible working arrangements for all positions. We embrace our diverse community and encourage applications from everyone including people of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander background, people of diverse sexual orientation and gender, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and people of varied age, ability, and faith. Council will give due consideration to any workplace adjustments to accommodate the needs of any prospective or existing staff member.
Council is committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment and promoting cultural safety and wellbeing for children with zero tolerance for child abuse and harm.
To apply
To apply for this position please complete the online application form including:
· A brief cover letter
· Your resume
· Response to key selection criteria
You will be required to answer selection questions as part of the application process. The selection process also includes the requirement for reference checks
Position Description: Plant Operator – 297.9 KB
Applications close: 5pm, Wednesday, 22 October 2025
Further information: Andrew Mulholland, 8571 1764
