Napier City Council is looking for an experienced Wastewater Treatment Operator to help keep our Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) running safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with environmental and consent standards. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running — ideally with a National Certificate in Wastewater Treatment (Level 4) or equivalent practical experience in a treatment plant environment.

In this role, you’ll play a key part in managing the systems and equipment that treat Napier’s wastewater, ensuring reliable operations that protect our community and the environment every single day. From monitoring and maintaining critical assets to troubleshooting faults and supporting process optimisation, this role offers variety, responsibility, and the chance to work with modern treatment technologies alongside a skilled and supportive team.

While this role is based in Napier, we welcome applications from outside of Hawke’s Bay. The region offers an enviable lifestyle — from beaches and bike trails to award-winning food and wine — and we offer relocation support to the right candidate to help make your move here as smooth as possible.

Te Āheinga - The Opportunity

• Operate, monitor, and maintain Napier’s Wastewater Treatment Plant to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant performance.
• Carry out inspections, analyse operational data, and respond to alarms or faults to maintain continuous treatment processes.
• Perform hands-on mechanical and basic electrical maintenance to keep systems and equipment running smoothly.
• Work with an experienced team focused on reliability, environmental compliance, and continuous improvement.

He kōrero mōhou - About You

• Hold a National Certificate in Wastewater Treatment (Level 4) or bring equivalent experience in treatment plant operations.
• Technically skilled with a good understanding of pumps, valves, and control systems, and comfortable troubleshooting equipment issues.
• Safety-conscious, physically fit, and detail-oriented, with a strong commitment to quality and compliance.
• A proactive team player who communicates clearly and takes pride in supporting essential community infrastructure.

Ngā painga mōhou - What we Offer

• 5 weeks annual leave after 2 years service
• Discounted Health Insurance Work Scheme + Eye Test Subsidy
• Retailer Discounts + Study assistance
• Employee Assistance Program (OCP)
• Quarterly values awards + Birthday vouchers + Social club
• Free flu vaccinations (annual)
• Ka Awatea Cultural Wānanga + NCC Kapa Haka
• Te Reo Māori language classes

This is a permanent, full time role working 42.5 hours a week (8.5 hours a day Monday-Friday). You will be based predominantly at the Waste Water Treatment Plant.

The hourly rate for this role is between $31.33 - $34.00 (plus KiwiSaver if eligible). Put into annual salary terms, that is between $69,900 – $75,100 (plus KiwiSaver) with the final offer depending on your skills and experience. 

Applications for this role close on 27 November 2025, however due to the highly competitive employment market we will be interviewing applications as we receive them and may close the role when we have found the right person. Please do not delay in making your application.

He kōrero mō Te Kaunihera o Ahuriri - About NCC

At Napier City Council, we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer that values diversity. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and work to make our hiring process fair and accessible. If you need any support or adjustments during your application or interview, let us know—we’re happy to help!

Our success is grounded in strong partnerships with Mana Whenua and Iwi, supported by our Māori Partnerships team, Te Waka Rangapū, which builds cultural capability through education and training.

Before you join, you’ll need to complete pre-employment checks (including drug testing, with some roles requiring health screening). As an NCC employee, you may also be called on to support Civil Defence emergencies when our community needs us most.

Please visit Napier City Council Careers website to see full job description

Job Description – Waste Water Treatment Operator