Community Engagement Coordinator – Penrith (Maximising the Middle)
Part-time Fixed term contract to Dec. 2027| 30 hours/week | 3–4 days/flexible
Base: Penrith, with local travel to Campbelltown | Hybrid work available
Help us create a movement that enables young people to thrive.
Are you a connector, a collaborator, and a community builder? Do you believe every child deserves to feel valued, supported and seen – particularly in those critical ‘middle years’ (ages 8–14)?
We’re looking for a purpose-driven Community Engagement Coordinator to support the next phase of Maximising the Middle – an exciting, community-led initiative working to ensure children and young people in Penrith and surrounding areas can truly thrive.
About the initiative
Maximising the Middle is a bold collaboration between the Stronger Smarter Institute, ARACY, Uniting, and a generous philanthropic partner. Our shared goal is to build a community-led movement focused on middle years children and young people – a group often overlooked in the service system.
Phase 1 trained 50+ change-makers across Penrith and Campbelltown using Stronger Smarter’s leadership training and ARACY’s Common Approach to wellbeing. Now, in Phase 2, we’re helping these leaders work alongside young people to co-design impactful local projects.
Your role
As one of two Strategy Coordinators (this one focused on Penrith), you'll be a key player in activating local schools, communities and young people. You’ll build relationships, support community-led project design, and ensure young voices are at the heart of everything we do.
You’ll be part of a small, passionate team working across Penrith and Campbelltown, supported by Uniting and our founding partners.
Key focus areas include:
- Engaging schools, community leaders and partners across Penrith to grow the movement
- Supporting the co-design of innovative community projects alongside young people
- Elevating youth voice and leadership in decision-making
- Connecting community aspirations, assets and opportunities
- Advocating for long-term system change that supports middle years development
Who we’re looking for
You're someone who:
- Believes in community-led innovation and the power of youth voice
- Is a natural networker who builds trust and momentum across diverse groups
- Embraces Indigenous knowledge systems and culturally inclusive practice
- Thrives in an evolving environment with multiple stakeholders
- Brings experience in community engagement, education, or social change
You might be from a background in community development, social work, education, or something entirely different – if you’ve got the skills, mindset and heart, we want to hear from you.
Even better if you also:
- Have strong local knowledge or connections in the Penrith area
- Have experience facilitating or supporting grassroots innovation
What’s on offer
- Flexible part-time role (30 hours per week) across 3–4 days – no set days required
- Hybrid working model – mix of travel across Penrith/Campbelltown and work from home
- Join a deeply collaborative initiative backed by respected national organisations
- Be part of creating something new, meaningful, and led by community
This is more than a job – it’s an opportunity to be part of something bigger.
If you're passionate about children and young people thriving – especially those in the middle years – and ready to co-create change alongside community, we’d love to meet you.
For a copy of the position description please contact Louise Massie via email at [email protected]
How to apply:
We’d love to hear what drew you to Uniting and this opportunity.
Please include a cover letter with your CV — applications that include a cover letter outlining your motivation and fit for the role will be treated favourably.
What We Offer You
- A rewarding career with a leading human services organisation.
- Up to $18,550 NFP salary packaging available.
- Access to our U rewards program with exclusive discounts.
- Flexible work hours for work-life balance.
- Affordable access to Fitness Passport— discounted gym memberships to support your best life.
- A supportive and inclusive and collaborative work environment.
- Opportunities for professional growth.
Uniting contributes to the work and mission of the Uniting Church in NSW and the ACT through social justice advocacy, community services and spiritual care. Our purpose is to inspire people, enliven communities and confront injustice.
We provide support for people through all ages and stages of life, with a focus on those experiencing disadvantage and vulnerability.
We acknowledge the Sovereignty of First Nations people over the lands of Australia and are committed to meaningful change so that First Nations people are strong, thriving and self-determining.
Uniting is a Child Safe Organisation, committed to the safety, wellbeing and inclusion of children and young people. We are proud of the diversity of our people and always welcome everyone, exactly as they are.
