Cadet Engineering Surveyor

Why work with us?

At Council, we’re proud of our region. We collaborate with community to achieve truly sustainable outcomes, enhance our enviable lifestyle, and create award-winning places and spaces that are uniquely Sunshine Coast. So, if you love it here as much as we do, and you want to shape our region for the future – you’ll want to join our team!

With the vision to be Australia’s most sustainable region -Connected. Liveable. Thriving, our region is a model of sustainability, where caring for our environment, creating vibrant communities and growing our local economy is a way of life.

About the Role

Build your surveying career while contributing to essential civil infrastructure across the Sunshine Coast. As a Cadet Surveyor, you’ll support the delivery of expert surveying solutions that help manage Council’s roads, drainage and civil assets. You must be enrolled or eligible to enrol in an Associate Degree in Spatial Science (Surveying), combining hands‑on work with formal study in a supportive learning environment.

You’ll assist the Supervisor, Survey Services to produce accurate survey data, designs and documentation for approved road and stormwater projects. From field surveys to plan preparation, this role offers real project exposure, modern technology and a clear pathway to grow your career while delivering outcomes that support sustainable communities.

• Supporting engineering and topographic surveys across road and stormwater projects
• Assisting with construction set‑outs and collecting accurate field data
• Operating and caring for modern survey equipment including total stations, GPS, drones and scanners
• Processing survey data and preparing plans using AutoCAD and 12D
• Assisting with drainage, flood gauge and stockpile volume surveys
• Maintaining field equipment and ensuring works are completed safely
• Learning from experienced Surveyors while applying study knowledge to real projects
• Contributing to quality documentation that supports Council’s civil asset management

About you

You’re a motivated and detail‑focused aspiring Surveyor who enjoys hands‑on fieldwork and applying technical skills to real‑world infrastructure projects.

• Enrolled, or eligible to enrol, in an Associate Degree of Spatial Science (Surveying) (completed or progressing coursework depending on level)
• Relevant surveying experience, commensurate with appointment level
• Working knowledge of AutoCAD and exposure to 12D (or ability to develop skills)
• Ability to undertake fieldwork and process survey data accurately
• Strong numeracy, analytical and problem‑solving skills
• Well‑developed written and verbal communication skills
• Strong time management, organisation and attention to detail
• Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Office and ability to learn new systems
• Understanding of, or ability to apply, relevant legislation, standards and Council procedures
• Commitment to workplace health and safety
• Satisfactory completion of a pre‑employment medical assessment

Our Culture & Employee Benefits

Council is committed to creating an inclusive, culturally diverse, healthy, skilled and dedicated workplace culture. As an employee you will enjoy a range of benefits and working styles to suit you:

• Wellbeing: Your wellbeing is important to us therefore we offer a number of different initiatives such as discounted health related memberships, fitness passport, employee assistance program and development opportunities. 
• Flexibility: We know it is important to balance life and work, therefore we offer flexible working including a 9-day fortnight and a hybrid WFH model that help you be your best.
• Extras: Those extras make a difference therefore we offer salary packaging options on novated leases, superannuation, smartphones and devices.

How to apply

Your written application should include:

• A 1-2 page cover letter demonstrating your ability to fulfil the mandatory and desirable requirements on the Position Profile. Keep the key responsibilities in mind when addressing this criteria; and
• A current resume or curriculum vitae.

Once you have these two documents ready, click ‘Apply Now’ and follow the prompts to complete your application.

Further Information

Helpful information to assist you in completing your application is available on the Sunshine Coast Council website.

To learn more about Council’s vision and projects, you can view the Corporate Plan 2025-2030.

For specific enquiries contact Peter Hayes during business hours on 0417 756 109.

We're working hard to create an inclusive workplace that reflects the diverse community we serve. If you require adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please reach out to the Recruitment Team [email protected].

At Sunshine Coast Council, we embrace differences in gender, age, ethnicity, race, cultural background including First Nations, disability, religion and sexual orientation. To deliver the best service to our region we want a workforce that reflects the diverse community that we serve. Sunshine Coast Council strongly encourages all suitable applicants to apply for this role.