| Job Title: | Manager Water and Waste |
| Job Type: | Permanent Full Time |
| Location: | Cooktown |
| Classification: | Engineering |
| Client: | Cook Shire Council |
| Reference: | 3869 |
| Job Published: | 25 Mar 2026 |
| Closing Date: | 14 Apr 2026 |
Job Description
Manager Water and Waste
Cook Shire Council | Cooktown, Queensland
Lead essential services across one of Queensland’s most unique and remote regions
Lead water, wastewater and waste services across Cook Shire
Manage a diverse operational portfolio supporting remote communities
Salary circa $120,000 – $150,000 + super + vehicle
Cook Shire Council is seeking a capable leader to manage water, wastewater and waste services across a large and geographically diverse local government area.
This is a role with real impact. Reliable water, wastewater and waste services are fundamental to community health, environmental protection and liveability—particularly in a remote region where communities can be isolated during the wet season.
Reporting to the Director Infrastructure, you will lead the delivery and improvement of essential services across treatment plants, reticulation networks and waste facilities, supported by a team of approximately 28 staff working across multiple communities.
You will balance day-to-day operational leadership with a focus on strengthening systems, improving service reliability and supporting longer-term infrastructure planning.
About You
You bring experience leading operational teams in water, wastewater, waste or similar infrastructure services, with a strong focus on service reliability and compliance.
You are a practical and visible leader who is comfortable working across dispersed teams and remote communities, balancing operations with continuous improvement.
You have sound financial and contract management capability, and the ability to build strong working relationships with staff, stakeholders and regulators.
Relevant qualifications in engineering, environmental services, utilities or a related discipline are desirable, or equivalent industry experience.
Why Join Cook Shire Council
Working in Cook Shire offers the opportunity to lead services that directly affect daily life across Cape York. You will contribute to meaningful improvements while leading a capable operational workforce and shaping the future of water, wastewater and waste services.
How To Apply
Please download the candidate information package and view the position description and selection criteria before submitting your application.
Applications close: 5:00 pm AEST Tuesday 14 April 2026.
