Gardener - Handyperson

About the Role

The Department of Education in Western Australia is looking to form a pool of Gardener - Handyperson professionals for various permanent and fixed-term, full-time and part-time positions that may arise throughout the 2026 school year and until the end of Term 3, 2027. Appointments can be made at any time to cover openings in this timeframe.

The Western Australian College of Agriculture (WACoA) – Cunderdin offers Year 11 and 12 students a specialized educational setting centered on innovation and academic excellence. The college is situated near the Wheatbelt town of Cunderdin, approximately 160 km east of Perth. It provides students with the opportunity to attain outstanding educational achievements within a commercially run farm, advanced trade training facilities, and a residential facility with 134 beds.

WACoA has been recognized for excellence, having been a finalist in the WA Education Awards for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (Secondary) in both 2023 and 2024.

The college’s unique environment is focused on innovation and superior learning, supported by potential GROH housing subsidies for eligible candidates. The institution is dedicated to producing graduates equipped with practical, work-ready skills.

Key Responsibilities

The Gardener - Handyperson is accountable for maintaining the school’s grounds in a safe and orderly state, fostering an environment suitable for outdoor learning for both students and staff. Responsibilities include upkeep of turf, garden beds, shrubs, trees, and other soft landscape elements, as well as maintaining hardscape features such as courts and pavements. Additional duties involve marking sports areas and performing minor repairs as per departmental policies.

Maintaining gardening facilities, equipment, tools, and machinery in clean and operational condition is essential, along with promptly reporting any faults. This role requires adherence to safe work practices and cooperation with the Manager of Corporate Services to develop safe work procedures and perform risk assessments when required.

Compliance with Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) regulations and the proper management and documentation of hazardous substances are integral parts of the position.

Equity and Diversity

The department is committed to fostering an inclusive and culturally responsive workforce that reflects the diversity of Western Australia's schools and wider community. Applications are especially encouraged from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, youth, individuals of diverse sexual orientations and genders, persons with disabilities, and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. Applicants can review the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Plan 2021-2025 for further information.

Eligibility Criteria

• Possession of a valid Working With Children Check is required.
• Consent is needed for a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check and the acquisition of a Screening Clearance Number issued by the Department of Education's Screening Unit before commencement.
• Candidates must be Australian or New Zealand citizens, permanent residents, or hold a valid visa with appropriate work rights for the duration of the appointment.

Additional eligibility and training requirements are detailed in the official Job Description Form (JDF).

Application Procedure

Applicants should prepare a CV or resume outlining relevant experience, work history, qualifications, and certificates. A one-page cover letter explaining how their abilities and experience align with the role is also required.

Applications must be submitted online via the official application portal before the closing deadline of 4:30 PM (AWST) on Monday, 21 September 2026. Late submissions will not be considered. For assistance with the application process, the Department’s Recruitment team is available via phone.

Advertised Vacancy Number: IPS/SS1064346

The department enforces a four-day breach period throughout the selection process.