- Permanent / Full Time
- Salary: $105,927 - $120,707 gross p.a. plus 12% Super
- 35 hours per week (Monday to Friday) with the option of flexitime
- Located at Nowra Administration Building, Bridge Road
- Applications close: Friday, 10 April 2026 (at midnight)
About the Role
Lead the delivery of community projects and programs that support wellbeing in the Shoalhaven, oversee the daily operations of the Vibrant Communities team, and ensure all activities comply with relevant legislation, Council policies and risk management requirements. This includes:
- Lead the Vibrant Communities team, within the Customer and Community Services Department.
- Develop and implement a range of initiatives and activities that strengthen community capacity by fostering partnerships, supporting local leadership, and enabling inclusive participation in programs and decision-making processes that build resilience and social cohesion.
- Set the strategic direction for the Vibrant Communities team and maintain ongoing strategic planning and development.
- Develop Council policy on issues relevant to social justice and ensure the provision of appropriate and accurate advice on social justice issues
Please refer to the Job Description under the Job Attachments for a comprehensive list of duties, responsibilities and skills required.
The advertised salary is based on the grade of the position, comprising of 4 steps within the range shown. The starting salary is at Step 1 within the grade. Progression through the salary steps shall be based upon the achievement of performance objectives relating to the position.
About You
To be successful in the position, you will have:
- Degree qualifications in Community Development, Social Science or related field
- Class C Driver's Licence
- Proof of Australian residency or citizenship, or authority to work in Australia (visa)
- Current NSW Working with Children Check
- Minimum 2-3 years post qualification experience in relevant/related fields, with a combination of program/service delivery, social research, strategic planning, community development and project management.
This role leads a team of highly motivated professionals who parter with community to co-design initiatives that respond to local gaps and opportunities. You will be passionate about social wellbeing outcomes, with a focus on diverse and under-represented communities. You will be confident in managing projects, guiding team operations and maintaining high standards of compliance and risk management. The ideal person communicates well, works collaboratively and is passionate about delivering initiatives that enhance wellbeing and community life across the Shoalhaven.
This position requires a current NSW Working with Children Check. Applicants are required to apply and pay for this check if not already obtained.
How to Apply
To submit an application, click Apply and complete each Step of the application. You will be required to attach your resume (and cover letter if required) and respond to questions regarding general information about you.
In addition, you will be required to demonstrate how you satisfy the requirements of the position by answering the below questions relevant to the essential criteria as outlined in the job advertisement.
- At Shoalhaven City Council our corporate core values are: Collaboration, Adaptability, Integrity and Respect. Please choose one value and advise how you have enacted this value in a professional setting.
- Please outline how you meet the essential criteria for this position including skills, qualifications, certifications and licenses relevant to this position.
- Can you provide an example of a situation where you successfully managed a team, including training, developing, and evaluating staff performance? Please describe the approach you took and the outcome achieved
- Please describe a community development initiative that you delivered that utilised strategic community partnerships to build community capacity to achieve outcomes.
Applicants who progress to pre-employment checks may be required to undergo a Working with Children Check Verification, Qualification Check, Work Rights Verification, Reference Checks and Medical (Low Risk). Employment is subject to satisfactory outcomes for all required checks.
For tips and more information on how to submit a great application, please visit how to apply on Councils website. If you require assistance submitting your application, please contact the Talent Acquisition Team on 02 4429 3253.
Applications Close: Friday, 10 April 2026 (at midnight)
If you have any questions about this role, please contact Carly McWalters - Customer and Community Services Manager (acting) - 02 4429 3418.
Why Work with Us
The Shoalhaven area is a unique place of great natural beauty, offering an enviable lifestyle and positive work-life balance. Our workforce is our greatest asset, and we pride ourselves on our people. Our teams are talented and inclusive and work together to provide better outcomes for our community, who are at the heart of everything we do. With a diverse range of professions and roles, we offer many career options and pathways, actively promoting opportunities and encouraging staff professional development.
Benefits include:
- Generous leave entitlements
- Long Service Leave after 5 years
- Option of flexitime for indoor staff
- 9-day fortnight for outdoor staff
- Flexible and remote working arrangements
- Novated lease arrangements available
- Opportunities for professional development and training
- Corporate wellbeing programs, including Fitness Passport and Employee Assistance Program (EAP), discounted health insurance
**Conditions apply as per the Local Government State award, and Council policies
Shoalhaven City Council is committed to creating a workplace that reflects our diverse community. We welcome applicants of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, veterans, people with a disability, culturally diverse individuals, and LGBTQIA+ community members. We ensure equitable recruitment practices, and applicants with disability can request reasonable adjustments. As a Child Safe Organisation, we uphold the rights and safety of all children and young people.
