Communications and Engagement Project Officer (Water)

Communications and Engagement Project Officer (Water)

• Become part of a progressive and respected team that values safety, innovation, teamwork and integrity with a strong community focus
• Be responsible for the implementation of communication and engagement strategies to enhance the organisation's reputation
• Enjoy a competitive salary circa  $ 78,785 - $ 90,602 per annum plus super and a host of great benefits
• Enjoy a supportive workplace culture that promotes continuous learning and career development

About Parkes Shire Council

Since its establishment in January 1981, Parkes Shire Council has earned a reputation as an innovative, progressive organisation with a proven ability to deliver outstanding outcomes for our community.  As a two-time winner of the AR Bluett Memorial Award - the state's oldest and most prestigious local government award - we take pride in our culture of continuous improvement and excellence.

Embracing a LEAN philosophy across our organisation and operations, we're constantly looking at how we can do things better in order to maximise the value we deliver.  We are committed to developing and retaining a skilled, energetic and professional workforce to ensure that we continue to provide the best possible services, facilities and infrastructure to our community. 

We strive to provide a flexible, safe and inclusive work environment for our people, and are proud to have achieved formal accreditation under ISO 45001, the internationally recognised standard in Occupational Health and Safety.

If you're seeking a challenging and rewarding career, a range of lifestyle benefits, and an opportunity to contribute to a high-performing organisation, then we're the right place for you.

For more information, please visit our website: www.parkes.nsw.gov.au

About the Opportunity

We are looking for an experienced and energetic individual to join our dynamic team of professionals in a challenging and rewarding role that is pivotal to engaging with the community and a wide range of stakeholders. 

You will be part of a project team tasked with delivering a number of water security grants from the State and Federal Government.

In this role you will be integral to the success of the projects and will be a key point of contact for a number of stakeholders across government, community and Council.  Whilst in the role, you will be responsible for the development and implementation of best practice community and stakeholder engagement plans and drive necessary engagement with communities across various Local Government Areas and other stakeholders to identify and find solutions.

This is a great opportunity to work on some world class projects that will drive growth and investment to the Parkes region.

This is a fixed term of employment for a period of three (3) years.

Further information on the role accountabilities can be found in the Communications and Engagement Project Officer Position Description.

About You

You will be passionate about regional communities and have demonstrated experience in communications, media and public relations. You will have superior communication skills and customer service with the ability to prioritise and manage stakeholder expectations. You will have strong writing and content creation skills that translate across a range of print and online platforms. You are measured in your response to sensitive, negative or crisis situations and are confident in escalating matters that require attention. You are forward thinking and thrive on creativity while still embracing process and policy to ensure value to the customer. You work as part of a team and are open to sharing your skills across projects and work areas to achieve results.

To be successful in the role you will need to a have:

• Degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Journalism or related discipline, OR relevant qualifications with experience.
• Minimum 3-5 years relevant work experience
• Knowledge of effective community engagement principles and techniques
• Demonstrated understanding of NSW Planning legislation and requirements needed for stakeholder engagement and management
• Ability to work with diverse stakeholders in politically sensitive environments
• High level verbal and written skills including the writing and delivery of strategies plans and communications materials
• Current and maintained Drivers licence

 Benefits

The appointment will be in accordance with the Local Government (State) Award and Parkes Shire Council's policies and conditions of employment. 

The role has been evaluated as being Grade 13 within Council's salary structure and offers a competitive salary circa $ 78,785 - $ 90,602 depending on skills and experience) plus super and salary packaging options to increase your take-home pay. 

Benefits of working at Council include:

• Fortnightly Rostered Day Off (RDO)
• Four weeks of Annual Leave per year
• Access to Long Service Leave after five years
• Access to salary packaging options through Salary Packaging Australia (SPA)
• Wellness Programs and Health and Wellbeing initiatives including two (2) Health and Wellness days off per year.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Paid parental leave
• Relocation assistance includes 40% reimbursement of removalist costs upon commencement and a further 40% reimbursement after 18 months of service. 
• And more!

In addition, we value work-life balance and offer opportunities for training and professional development. 

Parkes Shire Council is an Equal Opportunity Employer that fosters diversity, equity, and inclusion. We welcome candidates from diverse backgrounds and experiences, as we believe in building an inclusive work environment that reflects the community we serve. 

Ready to Apply?

If you're ready to make a meaningful impact and join a team that values safety, innovation, and community, we'd love to hear from you. Apply Now!

Applications Close: 07 Apr 2024