Protect, restore and enhance Mackay’s natural landscapes. Join Mackay Regional Council’s Facilities & Open Spaces team and play a hands-on role in caring for our region’s beaches, bushland, coastal reserves and natural areas.
About this opportunity
As a Natural Areas Officer, you will undertake a variety of vegetation management, revegetation works, habitat restoration and general maintenance activities across Council’s natural areas, foreshores and reserves throughout the Mackay region. This is a practical, outdoor role where your work will contribute directly to the health, presentation and long-term sustainability of Mackay’s natural environment.
You will work as part of a small field-based team, supporting weed control, brush cutting, revegetation, infrastructure repairs, fence maintenance and scheduled project works. You will also use small plant, power tools and technology to complete daily tasks, maintain accurate records and deliver a high standard of service for the community.
What you’ll be doing
- Undertake vegetation management, habitat restoration, weed control, brush cutting, revegetation works and ecosystem management activities.
- Assist with maintaining natural area infrastructure, including fence maintenance, minor repairs, assets, amenities and public spaces.
- Operate and maintain small plant, power tools and equipment relevant to natural area management.
- Complete daily records, pre-start checklists, work order requests and other required documentation.
- Work collaboratively with team members, contractors, volunteers and community groups.
- Use technology for communication, data collection and work order management.
- Contribute to scheduled maintenance activities, project works and emergency management response when required.
- Deliver quality customer service while maintaining Council’s image and reputation.
About you
You are passionate about the natural environment, enjoy working outdoors and understand the importance of protecting natural spaces for the community. You are reliable, safety-focused and comfortable working as part of a small team in a variety of outdoor environments, including rough terrain and changing weather conditions.
You will bring relevant experience in weed control, herbicide and pesticide use, vegetation restoration, revegetation works or natural area maintenance, along with sound communication skills and the ability to build positive working relationships with internal and external stakeholders, volunteers and community groups.
Essential requirements
- Current QLD “C” Class Driver Licence or interstate equivalent.
- Construction White Card.
- Operate and maintain chainsaws – Level 1.
- Chemical Accreditation (AQF3).
- Relevant experience in weed control, including the use of herbicides and pesticides, and vegetation restoration.
Desirable
- Certificate II in Conservation and Land Management.
- ACDC Commercial Operators Licence.
- Knowledge of basic vegetation management, ecosystem management and habitat restoration techniques, including revegetation and weed control.
- Knowledge of natural environment issues.
- Ability to create and maintain accurate records in line with legislative requirements.
Why work for Mackay Regional Council?
Mackay Regional Council is a dynamic, progressive and financially sound local government organisation that supports a thriving region known for its natural beauty, coastal lifestyle, strong community connection and diverse economy.
In this role, you’ll have the opportunity to work outdoors in some of the Mackay region’s most valued natural spaces while contributing to meaningful environmental outcomes for current and future generations.
- Competitive base salary Stream B Banded Level 3 $68,187.87 – Level 4 $69,354.82, plus applicable allowances.
- Up to 18% superannuation, conditions apply.
- Choice of 4 or 5 weeks’ annual leave with 17.5% leave loading.
- 9-day fortnight roster.
- Study and assistance programs for career development.
- Learning and development opportunities.
- Employee Assistance Program.
- Employee health and wellbeing initiatives.
- Active social clubs and lifestyle benefits, including corporate discounts.
How to apply
To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and suitability for the role. If applying through a third-party job board such as SEEK or LinkedIn, you will be redirected to the Mackay Regional Council Careers website to complete your application.
Applications may close earlier than expected, so don’t delay — apply today and help care for Mackay’s natural environment.
Important information for applicants
To be considered for this position, applicants must have appropriate working rights for Australia, which will be verified during the recruitment process. Applicants who progress beyond the interview stage will be required to undergo pre-employment checks, including a comprehensive pre-employment medical assessment inclusive of drug and alcohol testing.
Mackay Regional Council is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All applicants are treated fairly and respectfully and have equal access to available opportunities. We value diversity and are committed to creating a respectful and inclusive workplace where employees’ unique contributions and perspectives are recognised.
