Economic Development Officer

Position Overview

Join Mackay Regional Council as an Economic Development Officer and play a crucial role in supporting local business growth, attracting investments, and enhancing the regional economy’s long-term success. This permanent full-time position offers the opportunity to work on impactful projects that contribute to the prosperity of the Mackay region.

Role Summary

As an Economic Development Officer, you will be involved in implementing the Mackay Region Economic Development Strategy 2025–2030. Collaborating with businesses, government agencies, industry groups, and community stakeholders, you will promote economic growth, diversification, and investment within the region. Higher-level candidates (Level 5) will lead strategic projects independently and exercise enhanced judgment.

Key Responsibilities

• Implement economic development projects in alignment with the Council’s Corporate Plan and Economic Development Strategy.
• Establish and nurture productive relationships with businesses, industry bodies, government departments, and community members.
• Provide advisory support, information, and training opportunities tailored to local businesses.
• Assist with investment attraction and promote industry growth initiatives.
• Conduct economic research, data analysis, and generate reports to support informed decision-making.
• Prepare comprehensive documentation including reports, briefings, presentations, tenders, and other project materials.
• Coordinate with various Council departments to deliver cohesive economic development programs.

Required Qualifications and Skills

• A qualification in Economics, Business, Planning, Arts, Marketing, or a related field.
• Possession of a current Queensland "C" Class Driver Licence (or equivalent interstate licence).
• Proven ability to develop and maintain effective stakeholder relationships.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Experience managing projects within deadline-driven environments.
• Strong analytical and economic research capabilities.
• Competency in preparing professional reports and correspondence.
• Customer service orientation and adeptness at stakeholder engagement.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and familiarity with Adobe Suite and economic modelling software such as REMPLAN.

Preferred Experience

• Background in economic development, investment attraction, industry development, or small business support.
• Experience in community engagement and stakeholder communications.
• Previous work in local government or the public sector.
• Skill in preparing and interpreting economic and statistical data.

Additional Information for Level 5 Applicants

Candidates applying for Level 5 positions should show enhanced expertise in leading economic initiatives, performing complex economic analyses, forging strategic partnerships, and independently identifying growth opportunities to advance regional diversification.

Compensation and Benefits

• Annual base salary ranging from 95,769 to 104,821 AUD, contingent on qualifications and experience, aligned to band Level 4–5.
• Superannuation benefits up to 18%, subject to conditions.
• Choice of four or five weeks paid annual leave, with an additional 17.5% leave loading.
• Work schedule based on a 9-day fortnight.
• Access to salary sacrifice options where eligible.
• Membership to a lifestyle benefits program including corporate discounts.
• Study assistance and career development programs.
• Various learning and growth opportunities.
• Employee Assistance Program for support.
• Health and wellbeing initiatives.
• Active participation in social clubs.

Other Details

The role requires occasional work outside normal hours. No relocation support is provided. Applications consist of submitting a cover letter and resume, and the position may be closed at any time when a suitable candidate is found.