Community Development Officer

Mackay Regional Council is seeking an experiences Community Development Officer to join our Community Services team, based at our Sarina office.

This role supports and delivers community development initiatives that strengthen community capacity, encourage participation and address local community needs.

This is a Temporary Full-Time position until 30 September 2028, working a roster of any five (5) days out of seven (7). This is a level 3-4 position.

Using a Community Development Framework, the Community Development Officer works closely with Council, community members and partner organisations to identify community needs, facilitate access to information and resources, and support the development of solutions that respond to those needs.

Key Responsibilities

At Both Levels (3–4), You Will:

• Work with community groups and organisations to support community development and engagement initiatives
• Encourage community participation in discussions, decision-making and engagement processes
• Participate in networks to identify current and emerging community issues
• Support capacity building and social development activities
• Contribute to Council’s awareness of relevant community, welfare and social infrastructure matters
• Build effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders
• Have the availability to work an any 5 out of 7 roster and some out of hours work, if required.

Additional Expectations at Level 4

In addition to the above, a Level 4 Community Development Officer is expected to:

• Lead and coordinate community development initiatives rather than primarily supporting delivery
• Develop forward plans, strategies and responses to address complex or unmet community needs
• Provide policy advice, input and responses to Council on community development and welfare matters
• Represent Council independently in discussions with statutory, not-for-profit and voluntary organisations
• Deliver training and professional development opportunities to build community capacity
• Demonstrate a higher level of autonomy, professional judgement and influence across community outcomes

Qualifications & Experience - Level 3

Essential

• Tertiary qualification in Community Development / Social Sciences or related qualification:

• Entry level four year degree in the relevant discipline (preferred); OR
• Associate Diploma with experience; OR
• Three year degree plus one year professional experience in the relevant discipline; OR
• Appropriate Certificate with relevant experience; OR
• Attained through previous appointments, service and/or study an equivalent level of experience and expertise to undertake the range of activities required at this level.

• Working with Children Blue Card.
• QLD “C” class Driver Licence or interstate equivalent. Note: interstate licences must be transferred to QLD within three (3) months of commencement.

Desirable

• Experience in the field of Community Development and Community Engagement.

Qualifications & Experience - Level 4

Essential

• Tertiary qualification in Community Development / Social Sciences or related qualification:

• Relevant four-year degree with two years of relevant experience or three year Degree with three years of relevant experience (preferred); OR
• Associate Diploma with relevant experience; OR
• Less formal qualifications with substantial years of relevant experience.

• Working with Children Blue Card.
• QLD “C” class Driver Licence or interstate equivalent. Note: interstate licences must be transferred to QLD within three (3) months of commencement.

Essential

• If no formal qualification held, attained, through previous appointments, service and/or study, an equivalent level of expertise and experience to undertake the range of activities required.

WhyJoin Us?

• Base annual salary of $82,413 - $91,166 (the level offered will be determined on the successful candidates’ qualifications and experience. This is a level 3-4 position)
• Up to 18% superannuation (conditions apply).
• Choice of 4 or 5 weeks’ annual leave with 17.5% leave loading.
• May be eligible for salary sacrificing options.
• Membership to lifestyle benefits program including corporate discounts.
• Study and assistance programs for career development.
• Learning and career development opportunities.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Employee health and wellbeing initiatives.
• Active Social Clubs.

How to Apply

Please submit your cover letter and resume. Applications close Thursday, 12 March 2026.

Important information for applicants:

Applicants who progress beyond the interview stage will be required to undergo a pre-employment process, which includes comprehensive Pre-Employment Medical Assessments (inclusive of Drug and Alcohol testing)

We are an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer, where all applicants are treated fairly and respectfully and have equal access to all available opportunities. At Mackay Regional Council, diversity is about creating a respectful and inclusive workplace that recognises our employees' unique contributions and perspectives, working together to deliver extraordinary results.