Hawkesbury River County Council (HRCC) is opening its 2025 Weed Control Traineeship program to combat the growing threat of priority weeds.
HRCC is the designated Weed Control Authority for the Hawkesbury, Penrith, Blacktown and Hills Shire areas.
Backed by a $252.2 million NSW Government commitment to boost Council apprenticeships, HRCC’s two-year, full-time paid traineeship offers a combination of hands-on fieldwork and formal study – a unique opportunity to break into the conservation and land management sector.
“Jobs in weed control are highly specialised, and there’s a real skills gap in this area. This program is unique to HRCC and helps us ‘grow our own’ talent, while offering new recruits a solid pathway into a rewarding career – and we’re thrilled to continue the program this year with support from the State Government,” said HRCC General Manager, Chris Dewhurst.
Under the Weed Control Traineeship, trainees work alongside an HRCC Weed Control Coordinator or Weed Officer – tasked with carrying out site inspections, mapping weeds, treating weed infestations, maintaining records, contributing to operational reports, and learning how to safely use herbicides.
Staff are often journeying through dense bushland, travelling through the Hawkesbury-Nepean River by boat, and visiting vast rural properties – making it suitable for those who love the outdoors.
Time-intensive training can prevent many from entering the sector, with Weed Control Officers requiring TAFE credentials and other certifications that can take over a year to complete.
To overcome this, HRCC’s trainees receive paid study leave to complete a Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management, where they learn to identify flora and fauna, recognise soil types, operate machinery, control weeds and survey pests. This allows them to complete the program with all the qualifications needed for the Weed Control role, and beyond.
According to Mr Dewhurst, employment opportunities are abundant for those who complete the program.
“Every day brings something different when you’re a Weed Control Officer, and there are numerous opportunities for career growth and progression. HRCC has trained more than 20 graduates since 2012, and every graduate has gone on to secure a great job in the field – many have continued to work with HRCC for years after,” said Mr Dewhurst.
“If you are seeking a career in conservation, have an appreciation for the environment and enjoy working outdoors in a tight-knit team, we strongly encourage you to apply.”
Applications are now open via Seek. To register your interest, visit https://www.seek.com.au/job/86137041?tracking=SHR-WEB-SharedJob-anz-1.
