Are you a recent school leaver or wanting to start your career and have a passion for the outdoors? Are you eager to learn the art of transforming green spaces into vibrant havens? Then we have the perfect opportunity for you!

Join ERC’s passionate team as an Apprentice Horticulturalist and embark on an exciting journey into the world of parks, gardens, and recreational areas. This is your chance to gain hands-on experience, acquire valuable skills, and build a flourishing career in local government.

• 4 year fixed term apprenticeship
• 76 hour fortnight
• Opportunity to learn while you earn

What will you do?

As our Apprentice Horticulturalist, you'll be immersed in a dynamic environment, assisting our Parks and Gardens and Facilities and Open Spaces teams. You’ll learn the ropes of horticultural practices, from maintaining pristine lawns to nurturing beautiful gardens.

Key Responsibilities

• Get Your Hands Dirty: Assist with a diverse range of tasks, from planting and pruning to mowing and irrigation.
• Master the Tools of the Trade: Learn to safely operate and maintain small, motorized garden equipment and hand tools.
• Grow Your Knowledge: Participate in a structured traineeship program, attending off-the-job training and short courses to earn your qualification.
• Become an Irrigation Expert: Assist with the installation and maintenance of irrigation systems, keeping our green spaces lush and thriving.
• Be a Tree Champion: Contribute to our street tree planting and maintenance program, enhancing the beauty of our community.
• Deliver Exceptional Service: Provide excellent customer service to both internal and external customers, ensuring everyone enjoys our parks and gardens.
• Continuously Improve: Actively participate in training and self-development to enhance your skills and contribute to our team's success.

What we're looking for:

• A genuine passion for horticulture and the outdoors.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team environment
• Commitment to ongoing training and personal development.
• Excellent customer service approach
• Ability to undertake heavy manual work and willingness to work out of doors in all weather conditions.
• Attention to detail and ability to problem solve
• Basic computer and information technology skills.
• Ability to undertake duties in a manner consistent with a culture of customer service excellence and Council’s values – Leadership, Excellence, Accountability and Delivery.
• Current Drivers Licence or the ability to obtain.
• WHS Construction Induction Certificate (White Card).

What we offer

• On-the-job training while gaining a nationally recognised qualification.
• 9 day fortnight.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment.
• Access to Employee Assistance Program
• Annual health initiatives including flu vaccinations

How to Apply:

Application Deadline: 16 March 2025

If you’re excited about starting a career as Apprentice Horticulturist and making a positive impact on your community, we want to hear from you! Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your experience and suitability for this role, addressing the key selection criteria to [email protected] by 16 March 2025.

Further information

A copy of the position description and tips on applying can be found on our website or contact hiring manager, Paul Hussey at [email protected]

At Edward River Council, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We celebrate and support individuals of all abilities and backgrounds. We encourage applications from candidates with disabilities and ensure that our recruitment process accommodates their needs.

If you require any adjustments or accommodations during the application or interview process, please let us know by contacting [email protected]. We are dedicated to creating equal opportunities for all applicants and ensuring that everyone has the chance to thrive at Edward River Council.