Gladstone Area Water Board (GAWB) is a commercial Statutory Authority constituted under the Water Act 2000 whose purpose is to supply bulk water to major consumers in the Gladstone Region. GAWB manages a diverse portfolio of assets including major water storage, pump stations, pipelines, storage tanks, and water treatment plants. The organisation also supports recreational facilities and fish fingerling production and stocking programs. GAWB is known for its strong community and customer relationships and is committed to delivering safe and reliable water services that enhance the liveability of the region.
About the Role
In support of GAWB’s strategic objective of operational excellence, the newly created position of Network Operations Specialist – FGP will play a central role in ensuring the successful operational integration of the Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline (FGP) into GAWB’s existing water distribution network. This key technical role will support the setup of best-practice operations and governance processes for over $1B in new water infrastructure.
Initially, the focus will be on establishing operational systems and procedures as the FGP moves towards commissioning and transition to business-as-usual. Once operational, the role will evolve to become the primary liaison between the FGP Operations & Maintenance (O&M) contractor and GAWB’s internal Network team, ensuring operational standards are maintained, procedures are followed, and asset performance is monitored and reported.
You will contribute to a wide range of operational responsibilities including optimisation of network performance, routine and emergency response, stakeholder engagement, and supporting compliance with reporting, maintenance and safety frameworks
About You
You will be an experienced operations or technical specialist with a background in the water supply industry or a similar process environment. You are confident working with complex infrastructure systems and understand how to optimise and govern operations for high-value network assets. Your collaborative and adaptable style allows you to build strong working relationships with internal teams, contractors and external partners, while your ability to navigate change and implement practical solutions will be critical to success as the project evolves.
Qualifications & Experience
- Demonstrated experience in the water supply or similar process industry, with a focus on operational management and excellence
- Experience leading or coordinating small technical teams; including contractor management
- Knowledge of network operations, optimisation, and maintenance
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (particularly Word, Outlook, and Office 365)
- Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills
- Current “C” Class Driver’s Licence
- Desirable: qualifications in water supply engineering or related discipline
This is a key senior specialist opportunity in a respected regional utility, with the chance to make a tangible impact on essential water services and regional liveability. You will join a values-driven organisation with a strong safety culture and a commitment to innovation and sustainability. This is supported by a range of unique employer benefits and a competitive salary package which includes additional superannuation.
Relocation assistance is also on offer should the successful candidate be based outside of Gladstone.
For a confidential discussion, please contact Tim Wallis from Sharp and Carter – twallis@sharpandcarter.com.au or 0439 817 992.
