Why Work for Council

As an employee of Hinchinbrook Shire Council, you will join our team of approximately 200 employees who proudly deliver a variety of services, programs and facilities to the Hinchinbrook Shire Community.

Employee Benefits

As one of the larger employers in the region, Council offers favourable working conditions including the following possibilities, some of which depend on the role, the working area or duration of employment service with Council.

Working Hours

Work arrangements may include (where operational requirements permit):

• a nine day fortnight
• part-time work
• job share

Salary

• Wages are paid fortnightly into the employee’s nominated back account.
• Generous superannuation of 9.5% in the first year and 12% thereafter, with the employee also contributing 6%
• Negotiated employment conditions in accordance with Councils current certified agreement:

http://www.qirc.qld.gov.au/resources/pdf/certified_agreements/cert_agreements/2012/ca543_2012.pdf    

Leave

• Five weeks annual leave for permanent roles.
• Annual leave loading of 17.5%.
• Paid maternity, partner and adoption leave up to six weeks.
• Long Service Leave
• Three weeks paid sick leave
• Defence Services Leave

Employee Benefits

• Investing in your own future
• Annual salary increments as negotiated
• Employee Recognition & Awards
• Education Assistance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Local Government Private Health Program
• Professional Membership Fees
• Conference Attendance
• Social Clubs
• Health and Wellbeing Program

Work Health and Safety

Council is committed to a safe and healthy work environment. Comprehensive workplace health and safety policies and procedures are in place to ensure you are not placed at risk while at work.

Smoke-Free Environment

Council is committed to providing a smoke free work environment.

Christmas Close Down

The Chief Executive Officer and Council decide upon a Christmas / New Year close down period each year. During the close down period the Council operates with a skeleton crew providing the perfect opportunity for families to be together over the holiday season.

Conditions of Employment

Pre employment medicals & Criminal History Checks

Prior to an offer of employment being made by Council all successful candidates are required to undertake a pre employment medical drug and alcohol test together with a criminal history check. 

In addition before an offer of employment being made by Council all successful candidates for specific identified positions will be required to undertake a full pre employment medical examination.

Probation

Council will employ all employees other than casual employees on an initial probationary period of three (3) months. The purpose of the probationary period is to:

• review progress against objectives, including the employee’s attitude and behaviour;
• provide constructive feedback on the employee’s performance and discuss any concerns;
• ensure the employee is satisfied with the role; and
• to identify any training or development needs.

Code of Conduct

Council employees are required to abide by a Code of Conduct. The Code stipulates particular behavioural standards required of every employee.

Other Opportunities

Traineeships/Apprenticeships

Traineeships and Apprenticeships are initiatives designed to address recruitment and growth needs of Council and the community by attracting applicants with commitment to study within a range of fields at Council.  

A traineeship or apprenticeship allows you to gain on the job experience whilst completing studies. Council advertises these opportunities as they become available.

In 2016 Hinchinbrook Shire Council was the runner up in the NQ Training Awards and are committed to training community members through traineeships and apprenticeships.

Cadetships

Cadetships are an initiative designed to address recruitment needs and specialised skills shortages of Council by attracting cadets committed to study a specialised function such as engineering, environmental health or technical services.

A cadetship involves paid full time employment with Council on a permanent basis as well as financial support provided to undertake an Associate Degree on a part time basis usually via distance education. The cadetship duration is restricted to four (4) years, after which time the cadet is appointed to a role in their chosen field.

Upon approval given by the Chief Executive Officer, Council will advertise a cadetship opportunity within the region, observing the eligibility criteria and usual recruitment procedures.