The following article is provided by the Hawkesbury River County Council (HRCC). Hawkesbury City Council is a member of the HRCC alongside The Hills Shire, Penrith City and Blacktown City councils.
Priority weeds are spreading fast due to climate change, damaging our environment and costing farmers an estimated $1.5 billion yearly in lost agricultural production. The weeds management sector has grown significantly as a result, and is in need of qualified staff.
The NSW Government has committed $252.2 million over six years to support the hiring of new apprentices and trainees at local Councils, and HRCC has successfully applied to receive funding from this grant. We're now looking for two new recruits to take part in our Weed Control Traineeship program and are hiring from August this year.
If you are seeking a career in weeds management and conservation, have an appreciation for the environment, and enjoy working outdoors in a tight-knit team, our Traineeship program is right up your alley.
These two-year, full-time paid roles will allow you to work with us while receiving hands-on training. Alongside our Weed Control Coordinator or Weed Officer, Trainees will carry out site inspections, map weeds, treat infestations, maintain records, contribute to operational reports, and learn how to use herbicides.
Trainees will also receive paid study leave to complete a Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management, and will complete the program with all the qualifications and experience needed to launch their career in weeds management.
"Our traineeship program is unique to HRCC. Given how specialised the sector is, it's difficult to recruit qualified staff for weed control roles, so we like to say we grow our own by taking people on board and helping them build their skills – with the option to stay and work with us once they've completed the program." - Chris Dewhurst, General Manager, HRCC.
HRCC has been running traineeships for over 15 years, and every graduate has gone on to secure a great job in the field. Many have gone on to work full-time with HRCC after completing the program. If you're interested, visit the website
