Waste Services Operations Lead

• Lead operational improvements and transformational initiatives across one of Melbourne's largest community waste services
• 12 Month Fixed-term contract
• Significant leadership and project delivery responsibilities

• 12 Month Fixed-term contract
• Competitive salary + Monthly RDO + WFH 1 day p/w
• Lead operational improvements and transformational initiatives across one of Melbourne's largest community waste services
• Significant leadership and project delivery responsibilities

Lead the transformation of one of Melbourne’s largest community waste services. You'll drive operational excellence, lead business improvement initiatives, and deliver sustainable service outcomes that enhance performance, build workforce capability, culture and create lasting impact for the Darebin community.

About the role:
During this 12-month period, you will lead operational change and service improvement initiatives across Waste Services. Working with frontline leaders, staff and contractors, you will drive service excellence, build workforce capability, and deliver sustainable operational improvements. You will also support workforce stability, improve productivity and embed new service models into day-to-day operations.

You will:
Lead operational change and continuous improvement initiatives
Develop and implement change management plans to support successful adoption of new processes and service models within the Waste Services.

Deliver priority transformation projects and service improvements
Manage multiple operational projects and initiatives, managing risk and delivery agrees outcomes within established timeframes and budgets.

Partner with leaders, staff and contractors
Build effective relationships with frontline leaders, operations staff and contractors through strong communication, collaboration and engagement.

Build capability and embed continuous improvement practices Build team capability and embed consistent continuous improvements practices, and tools and ways of working across Waste Services.

Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, productivity and service outcomes
Review existing operational practices and identify efficiencies across waste collection, resource recovery and associated services.

Workforce and Resource optimisation
Develop business cases, implementation plans and performance reporting and reduce reliance of labour hire staff.

About you:
You are strategic and proactive leader with a passion for driving operational excellence, delivering change and achieving measurable results. You’ll bring strong project management, stakeholder engagement and problem-solving skills, with the ability to influence outcomes and deliver sustainable service improvements in complex operational environments.

To be successful in this role, you will bring:
• Relevant qualifications or equivalent experience in business, operations, project management, engineering, environmental management or a related field
• Demonstrated experience leading operational change, business improvement or transformation initiatives
• A proven track record delivering service improvements and operational efficiencies
• Strong project management, planning and stakeholder engagement skills
• Experience working in complex operational environments
• Strong communication, influencing and relationship-building capabilities
• Sound knowledge of workforce planning, performance management and continuous improvement practices

Highly regarded:
• Experience in local government, waste management, logistics or infrastructure services

Why Darebin?
Darebin City Council is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. We proudly serve one of the most diverse communities in Victoria, and we know that a diverse workforce strengthens our ability to deliver meaningful outcomes.

We offer:
• A supportive team environment
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth
• A workplace that values collaboration, integrity, respect and creativity
• The chance to make a real difference

How to Apply
To apply, please submit your application including a Cover Letter and Resume. If you wish to address the Key Selection Criteria in the Position Description, you may do so in your cover letter.

Applications close on Tuesday 10 November 2026 at 11:30pm.

Applications will be reviewed during the advertising period so if you’re interested in this opportunity, we encourage you to get your application in as early as possible.

For a confidential discussion about the role and the opportunity, please email keith.mckellar@darebin.vic.gov.au (Manager Operations & Waste) to arrange a suitable time.

Should you need reasonable adjustments to our recruitment process to support your accessibility needs, please get in contact with us and advise how we can best support you.

Pre-employment Checks
Darebin is committed to providing a safe working environment that embraces and values child safety, and thorough ‘Safety Screening’ processes apply.

To work at Darebin City Council, you will be required to supply proof of work rights, a Victorian Employee Working with Children Check and comply with Child Safety standards. All employees are required to undertake an Australian Criminal History Check and may be required to complete a Functional Health Assessment.

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