Parks & Gardens Manager based in Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire! Join the team and make real impact in the region.

Location: Kowanyama (subsidised housing provided).

Status: Full Time, Maximum Term Contract (3 Years)

Classification: QLD Local Government Industry (Stream A) Award - State 2017 - Level 7

Our Vision: “Kowanyama – Empowering our future. Leaders in collaboration. Stewards of our land, culture, and community.”

About the role

Reporting to the Executive Manager Roads, Infrastructure and Essential Services, the Parks and Gardens Manager is responsible for ensuring that public parks, garden areas, and open spaces in the Kowanyama area are maintained to satisfactory standards as required by the Council. This role also involves the safe operation and maintenance of Council's vehicles and plant to assist with the maintenance of these areas.

Key Responsibilities:

Apply current horticultural techniques to undertake routine and reactive garden maintenance work.

Maintain parks and garden areas to the standards required by the Council's Parks Department.

Undertake various garden and parks maintenance activities such as pruning, mulching, planting, watering, weed and pest control, and litter removal.

Manage site activities and general housekeeping.

Report maintenance needs for Council structures such as fences and seating.

Establish new gardens with sustainable post-establishment maintenance.

Use Council's vehicles and plant for maintenance and work programs.

Perform office duties including routine reporting, rostering, payroll, and HR responsibilities.

Other duties as directed by the Executive Manager Roads Infrastructure & Essential Services.

Qualifications:

Current Driver’s Licence (MR – highly desirable)

Front End Loader competency

Chemical Application Certification (highly desirable)

Certificate III (or higher) in Horticulture (highly desirable)

First Aid Certificate

Knowledge and Experience:

Ability to manage and develop a team of staff, including performance management.

Experience in engaging with community members in the development of community gardens and open space areas.

Management experience in parks, gardens, and open space areas.

Strong time management skills related to setting priorities, planning, organizing workloads, and meeting deadlines.

Knowledge of safety legislation requirements for activities and staff.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.

Highly developed communication skills, both written and oral.

Ability to lead and work collaboratively with a broad range of government and community stakeholders.

Knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and the ability to communicate effectively and sensitively with Indigenous people.

Experience working and living in remote areas and/or Aboriginal communities is essential.

Selection Criteria:

Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and the ability to communicate effectively and sensitively with Indigenous people.

Practical experience in the horticulture industry.

Ability to lead and coordinate work teams to ensure effective development and maintenance of the Council’s parks, gardens, and planned open spaces.

Effective communication skills with Council’s clients, other staff, community groups, and government representatives.

Ability to work independently or as part of a team.

Key Performance Indicators:

Maintain Council’s parks, gardens, and open space areas to a high standard.

Efficient and effective planning and review of routine work programs.

Maintain all equipment to a working standard.

Accurate data collection and reporting to meet funding requirements.

Maintain a positive team environment and encourage team development.

High level of customer service with no substantiated complaints.

Adherence to Council’s OH&S policies and guidelines.

Compliance with Council’s policies, procedures, and Code of Conduct.

Our region

Located in Western Cape York, Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire consists of beautiful and unique wetlands and delta mangroves in the north, extending to forest country in the central peninsula. Kowanyama is a remote Aboriginal community and home to over one thousand residents. Kowanyama means "place of many waters" in the Yir Yoront language.

What we offer:

Above award salary

Up to 12.00% superannuation contributions

5 weeks annual leave

17.5% annual leave loading

Subsidised housing provided

Company vehicle assigned

Flexible work arrangements

Relocation assistance

Access to Employee Assistance Program

Ongoing professional development and mentoring

How to Apply

Don’t miss the opportunity to join Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire Council and make a positive difference!

To be considered your applications must include a cover letter addressing the selection criteria and resume. Applications close Monday, 28 April 2025.

The full position description is available from Council’s website: www.kowanyama.qld.gov.au/our-council/employment-opportunities

Any enquiries should be directed to Human Resources via 07 4040 4500 or [email protected].

Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply.