At Rotorua Lakes Council, we believe those spaces are the heart of our community. We’re looking for a dedicated Cleaning Operator to join our Open Spaces Operations team a role where your hard work directly shapes the daily experience of residents and visitors. If you take satisfaction in a job well done, enjoy variety in your workday, and want to contribute to making Rotorua a cleaner, safer, and more welcoming place, your career in public service starts right here.
About Rotorua Lakes Council and Our Mission
Te Kaunihera o ngā Roto o Rotorua | Rotorua Lakes Council is more than just a workplace; we’re a team of over 400 people committed to forging a better tomorrow for our community. Nestled in a city of geothermal wonders and vibrant culture, we work collaboratively with local iwi, embracing biculturalism at our core. From maintaining our beautiful lakefront to supporting world-class events, every role here contributes to our city’s future. As a Cleaning Operator, you become a vital part of this mission, ensuring our public facilities and spaces reflect the pride we all share in our home.
Your Key Responsibilities
In this hands-on, full-time role, no two days are the same. You’ll be the frontline of cleanliness and presentation across our city’s key assets. Your core duties will involve:
- Delivering high-standard cleaning services across a variety of Council-owned facilities, including libraries, community centres, public toilets, and office buildings.
- Operating equipment like road sweepers to maintain clean and tidy streets and public areas within the CBD.
- Responding to urgent cleaning requests and assisting with preparations for community events and functions.
- Supporting the wider team with basic grounds and open space maintenance tasks when required.
- Following all safe work practices, responsibly handling cleaning chemicals, and maintaining equipment in good order.
- Providing friendly, helpful customer service to the public, council staff, contractors, and community groups you interact with daily.
Skills and Experience We Value
We are looking for a reliable team player with a strong sense of responsibility. The ideal candidate will bring:
- Practical experience in a cleaning, janitorial, or similar hands-on role.
- A current, full New Zealand driver’s licence.
- A solid understanding of the safe use of cleaning chemicals and equipment.
- Excellent attention to detail, reliability, and a genuine pride in your work.
- Great communication skills and a positive, customer-focused attitude.
- The physical fitness required for a role that involves lifting, bending, and being on your feet.
- A commitment to safety and the values of teamwork and community.
A qualification in Cleaning Operations or equivalent experience is preferred. Any additional certifications in first aid, health and safety, or grounds maintenance will be highly regarded. We especially value an appreciation of Māori culture and te reo Māori, as we work in partnership with Te Arawa.
Why Join Our Council Team?
When you join Rotorua Lakes Council, you join an organisation that puts its people and community first. We offer:
- A meaningful career where you can see the tangible impact of your work on the city you serve.
- A full-time, permanent role with job security within our supportive Open Spaces team.
- A dynamic work environment with great variety from indoor facility care to outdoor operations.
- A respectful, helpful, and inspiring workplace culture that truly lives its values of Tatou Tatou (We Together) and Kotahi Tatou (One Community).
- Opportunities for ongoing training and development.
- Salary Ranges 17$ per hr depends on experience
- The chance to be part of a council that empowers its staff and values innovative, community-focused solutions.
How to Apply
If you are ready to use your skills to help carve a brighter future for Rotorua, we encourage you to apply.
Please submit your application, including your current CV and a cover letter, through our online recruitment portal by clicking the ‘Apply’ button. In your cover letter, we’d love to hear what community means to you and why you want to contribute to Rotorua in this role.
For more details, you can view the full position description via the link in the original listing. We welcome applications from all who share our commitment to this community.
