Apprenticeships
An Apprenticeship is a structured training arrangement usually of three to four years duration. The training combines practical experience at work with complementary off-the-job training with a Registered Training Organisation (RTO). Apprenticeships are full-time to achieve a Nationally-Recognised Qualification.
Council provides excellent additional training to complement an apprentice’s technical ability. Training includes areas such as leadership, communication, negotiation, resilience, career management, mental health and wellbeing.
Key duties
- Operating work vehicles;
- Loading/unloading equipment
- Working on switch boards;
- Checking radio telemetry unit (RTU)
- Changing ball float pressure probe and pump cables;
- Checking / working on instruments;
- Working on generators and or motors;
- Preventative maintenance – Martyn St Electricians;
- Working on in-ground cable pits and up lights
- Operating / working from EWP / scissor lifts
Your team
With over 300 water and wastewater sites, the complexity and challenges are continual. The electrical team program VSDs, general instrumentation and telemetry equipment.
The team is made up of Electrical Engineers, Instrumentation Technicians and Industrial Electricians. Our electricians constantly move between preventative maintenance, emergent works and minor project upgrades.
Eligibility
All apprentices must be:
- completion of or currently in Year 12 with passes in Math and English and
- an Australian or New Zealand Citizen or hold a permanent residency visa or temporary residency visa.
- must not have completed an apprenticeship in the same vocation being applied for. NOTE: Recommencements/part completions will be considered.
At Cairns Regional Council, I’ve had the privilege of being given numerous growth opportunities whilst receiving continuous support and mentorship throughout my apprenticeship. This has empowered me to pursue my goal of becoming a dual-traded instrumentation/electrical technician. I am grateful for the experience and guidance that I have received along the way. My management team has been instrumental in guiding my apprenticeship, whilst my fellow tradesmen have imparted invaluable knowledge along my journey. Their mentorship has been an important asset, shaping me into a skilled and accomplished - tradesman. - Lance - Former apprentice
Key duties
- Loading and unloading vehicles and using and mounted cranes
- Operating work vehicles and forklift
- Using drill and hydraulic press
- Using milling machine and metal lathes
- Using tool and cutter grinder
- Using overhead gantry
- Using horizontal band saw
- Welding (MiG and stick)
- Inbound maintenance jobs
- Off-site maintenance tasks
- Gurneying mechanical parts

Your team
Our experienced Mechanical Maintenance Team will guide you towards achieving the competencies and training required to successfully complete your MEM30219-FIT/MA - Certificate III in Engineering - Mechanical Trade (Fitting/machining) qualification.
With a supportive team and a strong solution-focused work environment, you will enjoy developing, implementing and improving your skills to become a qualified Tradesperson by servicing and repairing Council's Water & Resource Recovery Assets ensuring their reliable service to the Community.
Eligibility
All Apprentices must be:
- 15 years and over; and
- an Australian or New Zealand Citizen or hold a permanent residency visa or temporary residency visa.
- must not have completed an apprenticeship in the same vocation being applied for. NOTE: Recommencements/part completions will be considered.
I found my apprenticeship with the council to be an amazing stepping stone to starting a new career. I was able to have the opportunity to develop my skills, have exposure to various plant and equipment and work with an amazing team. Being with the council allowed me to be able to give back to the community that I live in and have an appreciation to what happens ‘behind the scenes’ within the water and waste division. - Bryan - Former apprentice
If you think a career in horticulture is your next step, this apprenticeship offers the perfect opportunity to grow your skills, gain a nationally recognised qualification, and make a lasting impact in your community.

Key duties
- Operating work vehicles and plant
- Lawn care
- Emptying bins
- Chemical spraying
- Hazard identification
- Decanting fuel
- Green waste collection
- Mower maintenance
- Landscape maintenance
- Transporting plant and equipment
- Irrigation
- Lifting rhizomes
- Mulching
- Garden maintenance
- Clean up
Your team
The Community Spaces branch plays a vital role in fostering a vibrant, healthy, and inclusive region by managing over 5,250 hectares of public open space. This extensive portfolio includes a diverse range of recreational and natural areas such as 251 local parks, 51 district parks, 11 citywide parks, and 12 destination parks. The branch also oversees 9 council-managed sporting precincts, indoor leisure centres, 5 public swimming pools, and a public water park. In addition, it maintains 314 bushlands, 7 caravan parks and campgrounds, 60 kilometres of bikeways and footpaths, and 325 community parks - many of which feature playgrounds, BBQ facilities, and dog off-leash areas - ensuring accessible and engaging spaces for all residents.
As a Horticulture Apprentice in the Community Spaces branch, you’ll undertake a Certificate III in Parks and Gardens over a three-year period, gaining hands-on experience that directly aligns with your training plan. This immersive approach ensures you can apply your learning in real-world settings every day, supported by experienced mentors who are committed to guiding your growth and helping you build confidence in your skills. You’ll be part of a team that values learning, collaboration, and making a meaningful impact in our community spaces.
Last Updated: 16 February 2026
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