Economic Development Officer (Fixed-Term Contract)

Mackay Regional Council is seeking a dynamic individual to step into the role of Economic Development Officer for the vibrant Mackay region until 21 August 2026.

The position requires a natural collaborator with experience in delivering economic development strategies, actions and initiatives, and an ability to proactively engage with the region's business, industry groups and economic development partners.

If you can effectively manage projects, prepare quality written materials, and deliver economic outcomes for the region, our team welcomes your application.

This is a fixed-term contract until 21/08/2026 with the successful applicant being available to work an any 5 out of 7-day roster.

Key Responsibilities

As the Economic Development Officer, you will:

• Contribute to projects that advance economic development initiatives aligned with Council's Corporate Plan and the Mackay Region Economic Development Strategy 2025-2030.
• Build and nurture strong relationships with internal teams, local businesses, consultants, industry associations, and economic development organisations to support regional growth and diversification.
• Provide guidance and support to local businesses by sharing information on Council services, regulatory requirements, government grants, training opportunities, and relevant business resources.
• Collaborate with the Corporate Communications and Marketing team to create promotional materials that attract investment and highlight industry strengths.
• Conduct research and compile statistical data to identify economic trends and respond to internal and external data enquiries.
• Prepare reports, briefings, tenders, and other documentation to support economic development activities within set timeframes.
• Work collaboratively across departments to ensure coordinated and timely delivery of economic development projects.
• Undertake additional duties as directed, consistent with the scope of the role.

Qualifications

Essential

• Qualifications in Economics, Business, Planning, Arts, Marketing or related field.
• QLD "C" Class Drivers Licence or interstate equivalent. Note: interstate licences must be transferred to QLD within three (3) months of commencement.

Experience & Skills

Essential

• Experience in developing and maintaining effective working relationships between internal stakeholders, small business and industry, other levels of government and the community.
• Experience in project coordination, achieving targets within defined timeframes, and working autonomously.
• Experience in using Adobe Suite and economic modelling tools such as REMPLAN.
• Proven ability to plan and deliver identified project outcomes within agreed timeframes.
• Well-developed interpersonal skills including the ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with colleagues, supervisors, management, small business community and partner organisations.
• Highly developed verbal communication, negotiation, and liaison skills including the ability to work effectively and productively within a team or independently.
• Well-developed written communication skills and the ability to prepare reports, discussion papers, project plans and submissions.
• Ability to work effectively and productively within a team or independently, including management of time, prioritisation of workload and ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Well-developed computer skills and knowledge of Microsoft Office suite, Adobe Suite and economic modelling tools, including the ability to use, interpret, and analyse complex datasets.
• High level of client service skills (internal and external clients).
• Well-developed level of initiative, judgement, confidentiality, tact and discretion.

Desirable

• Experience in the delivery of economic development, investment attraction, small business assistance and/or industry development services, strategies and initiatives.
• Experience in community liaison and public relations.
• Experience in research and preparation of statistical data and information for the identification of economic development trends.
• Previous Local Government experience.

Why Join Us?

• Hourly rate of $53.00

• Up to 18% superannuation (conditions apply).
• Choice of 4 or 5 weeks' annual leave with 17.5% leave loading.
• 9-day fortnight roster.
• May be eligible for salary sacrificing options.
• Membership to lifestyle benefits program including corporate discounts.
• Study and assistance programs for career development.
• Learning and career development opportunities.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Employee health and wellbeing initiatives.
• Active Social Clubs.

Ready To Apply?

Please submit your cover letter and resume. Application will remain open for three weeks.

***Important information for applicants:

To be considered for this position, all candidates must have the appropriate working rights for Australia, Please visit Mackay Regional Council - Careers at council webpage regarding International Applicant criteria. Your Australian work rights will be verified during the recruitment process.

Applicants who progress beyond the interview stage will be required to undergo a pre-employment process, which includes comprehensive Pre-Employment Medical Assessments (inclusive of Drug and Alcohol testing)

We are an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer, where all applicants are treated fairly and respectfully and have equal access to all available opportunities. At Mackay Regional Council, diversity is about creating a respectful and inclusive workplace that recognises our employees' unique contributions and perspectives, working together to deliver extraordinary results.