Laboratory Assistant / Sampler Trainee

Laboratory Assistant / Sampler Trainee
Water & Waste Services
Temporary Full Time (2 years from appointment)
Hervey Bay

% of Stream A Level 1 - $42,343 OR minimum wage if over 21
+ 9-day fortnight
+ 4% salary increase effective 20 April 2026 (EB Agreement)

At Fraser Coast Regional Council our people are our most important asset and central to achieving our purpose of Building Better Communities Together.

What we are looking for:

We’re seeking a motivated and reliable trainee who is keen to learn and develop practical skills in laboratory and field sampling. This entry‑level role is ideal for school leavers or job seekers looking to start a career in scientific or water industry services while gaining real workplace experience.

You’ll work under supervision and be supported to build your skills in a safe, structured environment.

Funding Eligibility Criteria:

To be eligible, applicants must meet at least one of the following criteria:

Youth aged 15-24 years
Aboriginal or Torres Strait Island people
Mature-age job seekers (45 years or older)
Non English Speaking Background
People with a disability.

Please click here to view a full position description.

Please click here to view the First Start Funding Guidelines


What your day will look like:

Assisting with routine water, wastewater and environmental sampling
Supporting basic field testing and measurement activities
Preparing sampling bottles, equipment and materials
Helping with general laboratory housekeeping and basic equipment checks
Completing simple data entry and sampling worksheets
Assisting with stock control of routine chemicals and consumables
Working as part of a team and learning new skills every day.

What you’ll need for success:

General Construction Induction Card (White Card) or willingness to obtain
Ability to follow instructions and work safely under supervision
Willingness to learn laboratory and sampling procedures
Good communication skills and a positive attitude
Ability to work both outdoors and in a laboratory environment
Basic computer skills for data entry and record keeping
Ability to swim 25 metres (subject to practical assessment).

What’s nice to have:

Interest in science, water quality or environmental work
Previous exposure to outdoor, laboratory or manual work environments
A strong team focus and willingness to develop workplace skills.

Benefits of Working with Council

Committed to providing quality services to our community, we strongly support an inclusive and values driven culture, recognising your individual skills, knowledge and talent. As part of this we have implemented our Leadership Development Program, Boss to Coach.

We also create innovative solutions to labour shortages through our TEMPO program which has been recognised by our HR peers nationally in 2022, as well as winning the LGMA 2023 Excellence in Innovation award. Click here to review our Employee Value Proposition.

What we Offer:

Values based culture
Employee discount shopping program
Professional development
Flexible working arrangements including work from home
Study assistance program
Novated leasing
24/7 access to Employee Assistance Program
Paid maternity and paternity leave
Paid emergency services leave
Uniform subsidy
Years of service rewards

Apply now:

Applications close 11pm on Monday 13 April 2026

A cover letter outlining your suitability for the role, and a current resume is required.

For further details please contact Neisha Lethborg (Principal Laboratory Technologist) at neisha.lethborg@frasercoast.qld.gov.au or on 07 4194 7750.

Fraser Coast Regional Council is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.