Trade Assistant

Trades Assistant – Mechanical Maintenance (17H0)
Preferred Start Date: Immediate Start
End Date: 18 December 2026
Hours: 38 hours per week
Location: Kwinana Wastewater Treatment Plant
Pay Rate: Up to $50.85 per hour


About the Role
We are seeking a reliable and mechanically minded Trades Assistant to join the maintenance team at the Kwinana Wastewater Treatment Plant. Working alongside experienced Mechanical Fitters and Machinists, you will support workshop and field maintenance activities across critical water infrastructure assets.
This role is ideal for someone with strong mechanical aptitude who is looking to further develop their practical skills within a structured maintenance environment. The successful candidate will receive training and exposure to specialised maintenance tasks, including lubrication and preventative maintenance activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with scheduled maintenance and repair activities on water utility assets.
• Follow established work instructions, procedures, and safety requirements.
• Support workshop and site-based maintenance activities, including:
  • Basic operation of workshop machinery and equipment.
  • Assisting with assembly and dismantling of mechanical components.
  • Operating cutting, shaping, and pressing equipment.
  • Conducting pipeline inspections and recording maintenance data.
• Transport tools, materials, and equipment between work locations.
• Undertake surface preparation, sandblasting, and application of protective coatings as required.
• Maintain workshop cleanliness and housekeeping standards.
• Utilise specialist tools, plant, and equipment safely and effectively.
• Assist with fault-finding activities under supervision.
• Participate in standby or on-call rosters when required.
• Support safe job planning and risk management processes.
• Work collaboratively with tradespeople and operational teams to deliver maintenance outcomes.

About You
Essential Requirements

• Previous experience working in a workshop environment, including fabrication, welding, fitting, machining, or mechanical maintenance.
• Experience assisting tradespeople such as Mechanical Fitters, Machinists, Boilermakers, or Welders.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and confidence using hand and power tools.
• A proactive attitude with a willingness to learn and develop new technical skills.
• Commitment to workplace safety and following procedures.

Desirable Requirements

• High Risk Work Licences such as Forklift, Dogging, or Rigging.
• Experience working within utilities, water, wastewater, industrial, or heavy maintenance environments.
• Exposure to preventative maintenance and lubrication programs.

What's on Offer?

• Competitive pay rate of up to $50.85 per hour.
• Full-time hours (38 per week).
• Opportunity to develop specialised mechanical maintenance skills.
• Hands-on experience within a critical water infrastructure environment.
• Work alongside experienced trades professionals in a safety-focused team.