About the Role
This senior leadership position is responsible for the safe, reliable and compliant delivery of essential services across the Shire. This includes water and wastewater operations, civil works, roads, facilities and community infrastructure, fleet, parks and open spaces, marine/airport services, and cemetery operations.
The Director will drive asset lifecycle management, operational readiness, safety and compliance, while also strengthening local economic participation. A key part of this role is developing opportunities for local contractors, apprentices, trainees and workers to participate in the delivery and maintenance of essential services.
Working closely with the CEO and Executive Leadership Team, the Director will provide strategic leadership, build high performing teams, and champion Council’s values.
This role may be based on Palm Island or in Townsville, however there is an expectation that the role holder will be required to work on Palm Island from Monday to Friday each week to execute the requirements of the role. Preference will be given to Palm Island community members, in line with merit-based recruitment practices.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide strategic and operational leadership across all essential service and infrastructure functions.
- Oversee asset lifecycle planning, condition assessments, maintenance programs and renewal strategies.
- Ensure compliance with legislation, permits, standards and WHS requirements.
- Strengthen operational systems, safety performance and risk management.
- Lead local economic uplift through contractor participation, micro packages and local procurement pathways. packages and local procurement pathways.
- Support workforce development, including traineeships, apprenticeships and place based capability building. based capability building.
- Collaborate with the Director of Projects to ensure smooth handover and operational readiness for new assets.
- Build strong relationships with Council, community, contractors and government partners.
What we are looking for
You are an experienced operational and asset management leader who thrives in complex service environments. You bring strong judgement, cultural awareness, communication skills and a commitment to uplifting local capability.
- Tertiary qualifications in Engineering, Asset Management, Civil/Infrastructure, Operations Management or similar and/or extensive senior experience.
- Senior leadership experience in asset management, essential services or infrastructure operations.
- Strong knowledge of compliance, WHS, asset lifecycle practices and procurement.
- Experience working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
- Demonstrated commitment to local employment and contractor development.
Why Join Us?
- Lead essential services that directly impact safety, wellbeing and quality of life.
- Work with a Council deeply committed to cultural respect, community empowerment and long-term sustainability.
- Shape strong local employment pathways and uplift Palm Island’s future workforce.
- Enjoy a role with real impact, purpose and influence.
If you're ready to apply your expertise in asset management, infrastructure delivery and operational excellence to drive meaningful, long-term outcomes, we invite you to apply and help shape the future.
Apply Now