Cadet - Civil Engineering Designer x 2

Kickstart your career in Civil Engineering! 

Tweed Shire Council is looking for motivated individuals who are eager to earn while they learn.

As a cadet, you’ll follow a structured development pathway designed to help you gain both the qualifications and practical experience needed to build a rewarding career in civil engineering. These Council-funded positions offer a fantastic opportunity for individuals looking to begin their journey in a dynamic and impactful field.

To successfully progress to the role of Civil Engineering Designer, cadets must complete all required training and tertiary studies as part of the cadetship program

About the role: 

• Assist in delivering civil engineering design and drafting services across all Council divisions, from concept to construction.
• Contribute to multiple live projects using industry-standard tools and systems, gaining practical experience every step of the way. Working on real projects and have a real impact.
• Work alongside a supportive team of experienced professionals while completing your Associate Degree in Engineering
• Assisting with site inspections, surveys, and data collection
• Learning to interpret plans, specifications, and standards
• Contributing to safety, quality, and environmental compliance

Why join us:

This isn’t just a cadetship; it’s the start of a rewarding career in the engineering industry with a supportive team that wants to see you succeed. Here’s what we’re offering:

• full-time position for up to 48 months, commencing January 2026
• competitive starting salary from $51,580 per annum, plus 12% superannuation
• salary progression based on successful completion of training and strong on-the-job performance
• course fees covered - we’ll take care of the cost of compulsory unit fees for your Associate Degree in Engineering
• earn while you learn
• enjoy a 9-day fortnight (70 hours per fortnight) for better work/life balance
• ongoing training and professional development to help you grow your skills and career
• supportive environment with coaching, mentoring, and guidance from experienced professionals
• attractive employment conditions - and plenty more perks (click here to find out)!

We are seeking: 

• a genuine interest in Civil Engineering and a desire to build a long-term career in the industry
• currently enrolled in your first year or eligible to enrol into an Associate Degree in Engineering
• completion of NSW HSC with Advanced Maths (Extension 1 or 2) or equivalent
• a strong work ethic; eager to learn and develop skills
• motivated and committed to completing their engineering degree while gaining hands-on experience through on-the-job training in a supportive team environment
• a team player who can work collaboratively with peers and communicate effectively
• demonstrated commitment to safety, with a strong focus on personal wellbeing and contributing to a safe team environment.
• a current driver’s licence
• tech-Savvy and problem solver with basic computer skills and the ability to learn new systems, tools and software.

About us:

• Located on the picturesque far North Coast of NSW, bordering the Gold Coast.
• The Tweed is a vibrant, diverse location offering a lifestyle near the water, in a rainforest or on a farm.  
• Tweed Shire Council is committed to employment equity and diversity and encourages applications from people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds in both traditional and non-traditional roles.  We provide workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options. 
• Join an employer of choice. Professionals Australia (Local Government Engineers’ Association) has named Council the 2021 Employer of Choice for our great employment practices within NSW local government. 

Where it's located:

This position is based in Murwillumbah and can be directed to work from any Council work site.

Position closes: 

Friday 7 November 2025 at 12 noon sharp (NSW time).  Late applications will not be permitted.

Click here to view the Position Description 

TIPS for Addressing the Selection Criteria

Click here for more information on the Recruitment Process

Click here to view our Values

Pre-Employment Screening:

Tweed Shire Council conducts pre-employment assessments as part of its recruitment process. 

Job offers are not made until screening has been completed. Tweed Shire Council uses third-party providers to undertake:

• Pre-employment medical – some roles require a functional (physical) assessment, and all positions are subject to drug and alcohol screening (a positive test result means the recruitment process ends and your application will not be considered).
• Background screening - verifies that the information you have provided throughout the recruitment process is true and correct.  Click here for more information.

Reference Checks are undertaken by the panel. Your 2 referees should ideally be your current and most recent supervisors.  Your referees are not contacted unless you’ve been interviewed and are a preferred candidate.

How To Apply:

You must use your own email address, and not one used previously by another person that has applied for a position with council.

Once you start your online application, you cannot save and return to it later. 

1. Have your Resume document ready to go.
2. Fill out all questions below. Click 'Next'. 
3. You'll then be prompted to attach your resume and other documents (if applicable). Click 'Next'.
4. Review your application to confirm everything is correct. Click 'Confirm' to submit your application.

If you'd like to COPY and PASTE question fields into a separate Word document to work on over time, please find them listed below:

1. What interests you about Civil Engineering and what drew you to applying for this Cadetship?
2. What do you understand about the responsibilities & commitment involved in this Cadetship and how would you remain motivated throughout the program?
3. Do you have any experience that relates to this cadetship or the engineering industry? Please share any work, study or personal experiences that have helped you build relevant skills or knowledge. 
4. Are you comfortable using technology and learning new software tools? Can you give an example?
5. What are your career goals and how does this cadetship fit into them?
6. Please indicate the highest level of secondary education you have completed, along with any additional qualifications you hold (e.g. certificates, diplomas, degrees).
7. To meet the course enrolment requirements, you’ll need either an ATAR of 62.70 or relevant industry experience, along with advanced skills in maths and literacy. Please explain how you meet these criteria.
8. Do you hold a General Construction Induction Card (White Card) – or are you willing to obtain one?

SK97188A

OFFICE USE ONLY