Job Title

Bellingen Shire Council is seeking two talented and proactive Communication and Engagement Officers to help deliver clear, timely, and engaging communications across our Shire. One role will focus specifically on supporting our capital works program, including key infrastructure projects, while the other will contribute to a wide range of communication initiatives including the Sewering Coastal Villages Project. Both roles will be pivotal in shaping how Council connects with our internal and external stakeholders over the next two years. About Us Bellingen Shire is a picturesque and diverse area located on the Mid North Coast of NSW halfway between Sydney and Brisbane and just south of Coffs Harbour. It has a total area of 1,605 square kilometres with a coastline of approximately 10km. The region is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, including lush rainforests, pristine rivers, and the World Heritage-listed Dorrigo National Park. The area is known for its diverse ecosystems, abundant wildlife, and charming towns, cafes and artisan shops. Bellingen Shires natural beauty, cultural richness, and welcoming community make it a unique and attractive destination for both residents and visitors, with its emphasis on sustainability and preserving the environment adding to its appeal. We are a progressive local government authority employing approximately 150 dedicated employees. The Opportunity Reporting to the Communication and Engagement Lead, these roles are responsible for implementing Councils communications plans and engagement strategy. They will coordinate and deliver communication projects from start to finish including the development of communication materials, updating Councils digital platforms, and leading meaningful engagement activities across our community. One position will focus on supporting capital works and infrastructure projects, ensuring community stakeholders are informed and engaged throughout the lifecycle of these projects. Both roles will also contribute to Councils emergency response and disaster communication efforts. To be successful in these roles, youll ideally hold tertiary qualifications in communications, journalism, public relations, media production, or a related field or have equivalent practical experience. Your background will include developing communications for government, media, or corporate settings, with experience tailoring content to different audiences. An understanding of engagement principles and experience generating content for digital platforms will be highly valued. Familiarity with tools such as CMS platforms, Mailchimp, Canva or Adobe Creative Suite, and Meta Business Suite will also help you hit the ground running. Were looking for confident communicators with strong writing and editorial skills, who can juggle multiple projects and competing priorities with professionalism and care. Youll need to be collaborative, responsive, and flexible, with the ability to engage a broad range of stakeholders including community groups, internal teams, and marginalised individuals. A proactive mindset, a keen eye for detail, and the ability to think strategically about communication will see you thrive in this dynamic and rewarding environment. On offer Some of the benefits working for Bellingen Shire Council include: Access to Fitness Passport Access to employee wellbeing programs Hybrid and flexible work arrangements Ongoing professional development opportunities Salary packaging options 24-month term, 35 hours per week with access to monthly rostered day off Annual salary of $81,855 to $93,323 (plus super). For further information regarding this role please contact Todd Williams on 02 6655 7300 . Sponsorship/work rights for Australia Please note: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. For a continuing position, you must be an Australian New Zealand citizen or an Australian Permanent Resident. Australian Temporary Residents may be considered for a fixed term contract for the length of their visa, depending on the requirements of the hiring area and the position. How to Apply Please read the Position Description by clicking the link at the bottom of the page. It is important to read this carefully to understand what the job involves. No candidate will meet every single desired qualification or skill. If your experience looks a little different from what we have identified and you think you can bring value to the role, we would love to learn more about you! If this sounds like you, click the Apply for this job button at the top of the page, complete the application form and upload your current resume and a cover letter outlining your suitability for this role. Applications close: Sunday, 4 May 2025 at 4pm Further information As part of the recruitment process, suitable applicants will be required to complete pre-employment screening which may include relevant background checks, functional capacity assessment and drug and alcohol screening for relevant positions Our recruitment process is primarily via system generated emails. Please ensure your email is correct before submitting your application to avoid missing crucial updates and outcomes. Email notifications may include application confirmation, interview invitations, request for references, and application outcomes. Please check your email regularly, including your junk email. For enquiries regarding the application process, please contact the Recruitment team by email at recruitment@bellingen.nsw.gov.au "> recruitment@bellingen.nsw.gov.au . Bellingen Shire Council is a 2025 Circle Back Initiative Employer we commit to respond to every applicant. Bellingen Shire Council as an equal opportunity employer is committed to a merit-based workforce that encompasses inclusiveness and diversity in an environment of mutual respect. We invite, encourage, welcome and value candidates of all ages, from diverse backgrounds and cultures, and people who have lived experience of disability to apply to work with us. Bellingen Shire Council is committed to the safety and wellbeing of children and creating and maintaining a child safe organisation. If you require additional assistance to participate in the recruitment process, please contact the People and Culture team on 02 6655 7300 or recruitment@bellingen.nsw.gov.au . You can ask for reasonable adjustments to be made at any time during the recruitment process. Click here to download the Communication and Engagement Officer Position Description Click here to download the Communication and Engagement Officer Projects Position Description Find out how to apply for roles with us here