Waterlink is seeking a commercially strong, technically capable and people-focused Operations Manager to lead the department and drive operational excellence, team performance, and sustainable business growth.

This role is accountable for the profitable operation of Waterlink while building and leading a high-performing, values-driven team. The role presents a genuine opportunity for personal and professional growth while helping shape the future direction of the business. Beyond project delivery, we are looking for someone who can strengthen client relationships, develop capability within the team, identify new opportunities and contribute to the continued growth and diversification of Waterlink.

This is not just an irrigation management role. This is a leadership role and an opportunity to take ownership of an established irrigation business, influence its direction, develop future leaders and play a critical role in its continued success.

You will have the autonomy to lead, the support of an experienced leadership team and the platform to make a meaningful impact across both people and performance.

About Waterlink

Waterlink is a specialist irrigation business delivering commercial irrigation installation, maintenance, upgrades and water management solutions across Perth.

We work across a broad range of projects and clients, delivering practical, high-quality irrigation solutions backed by strong technical expertise and professional service.

Waterlink is proudly backed by the Landscape Elements Group, bringing together the technical expertise of a specialist irrigation business with the support, systems and resources of an established landscaping organisation with more than 20 years of industry experience.

This combination provides clients with confidence and provides our team with genuine opportunities for growth, development and long-term career progression.

We value integrity, accountability, professionalism and team alignment.

Culture matters here.

About the Role

The Waterlink Operations Manager is responsible for leading operational performance across the business while achieving strong commercial outcomes.

You will oversee:

Commercial irrigation project delivery
Team leadership, coaching and performance development
Client relationship management and communication
Planning and scheduling of labour, plant and resources
Financial performance, budgeting and reporting
Tender reviews and estimation oversight
Business development and client growth opportunities
Equipment, workshop and fleet management
Safety, compliance and quality standards

You will be accountable for business profitability, project delivery performance, client satisfaction and maintaining high standards across safety, quality and professionalism.

The Leader We're Looking For

We are looking for a leader who combines strong technical irrigation knowledge with modern leadership skills.

You understand irrigation systems, construction methodologies, fault finding, scheduling, programming and project delivery. Your team sees you as someone who can genuinely add value, provide guidance and help solve problems when challenges arise.

At the same time, you recognise that success is achieved through people. You know how to build trust, hold others accountable, develop capability and create a positive culture where people perform at their best.

You lead with quiet authority and set clear expectations without needing to dominate a room. You remain calm under pressure, communicate honestly and directly, and focus on solutions rather than problems.

You enjoy building people, developing future leaders and creating a culture where people want to perform.

If you lead with integrity, professionalism and accountability, this role will suit you.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and manage the Waterlink Department to achieve operational, financial, safety, and quality objectives.
Ensure the successful delivery of irrigation projects on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of workmanship and client satisfaction.
Provide strong leadership, coaching, and mentoring to develop a high-performing and engaged team.
Drive recruitment, training, and succession planning initiatives across the department.
Maintain expert knowledge of commercial irrigation systems, industry trends, and best-practice methodologies.
Oversee project scheduling, resource allocation, and operational planning to maximise productivity and efficiency.
Manage departmental budgets, profitability, forecasting, and financial performance against agreed targets.
Identify and implement continuous improvement initiatives that enhance operational efficiency, service delivery, and commercial outcomes.
Develop and maintain strong relationships with existing clients while identifying opportunities for growth and increased service delivery.
Pursue new business opportunities and contribute to strategic initiatives that support revenue growth and market expansion.
Oversee the preparation, review, and submission of tenders, estimates, and project proposals.
Ensure all staff maintain the required competencies, licences, and training to perform their roles safely and effectively.
Manage company vehicles, plant, and equipment to ensure compliance, reliability, and cost-effective operation.
Champion a positive safety culture and ensure compliance with all workplace health, safety, environmental, and quality requirements.
Collaborate effectively with internal stakeholders to support business-wide objectives and contribute to the ongoing success of the organisation.

What You'll Bring

Solid experience within the irrigation industry.
Strong technical knowledge of commercial irrigation systems, installation and maintenance.
Proven ability to troubleshoot and solve complex irrigation challenges.
Proven leadership experience managing operational teams and delivering projects successfully.
Experience managing budgets, forecasting, and reporting.
Demonstrated success in business development and client relationship management.
Strong planning, scheduling and organisational skills
Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and people leadership skills.
Current C Class Driver's Licence.
White Card.

Desirable

Senior First Aid
AutoCAD knowledge
Intermediate Microsoft Office skills
Experience leading a small to medium-sized business

What We Offer

Senior leadership role within an established and growing irrigation business
Company vehicle
Strong executive support
Opportunity to influence the future direction of the business
Long-term career development and leadership opportunities

If you are a technically capable irrigation professional who enjoys developing people, building client relationships and taking ownership of outcomes, we encourage you to apply.

Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your leadership style, technical experience and what attracts you to this opportunity.