Natural Area Officer

Role overview

Mackay Regional Council is hiring a Natural Area Officer to join its Facilities and Open Spaces team on a permanent, full-time basis. This position is focused on outdoor work that supports the protection, care, and improvement of the region’s natural spaces.

The council promotes a workplace built around balance, stability, and community impact. This role offers the chance to contribute to meaningful environmental outcomes while returning home each day to local life.

What you will do

In this practical, hands-on role, you will help maintain Mackay’s natural areas through habitat restoration, vegetation management, and general site upkeep. You will work alongside a collaborative team delivering projects that support and enhance the local environment.

Further detail on the day-to-day duties is provided in the position description attached to the original vacancy.

About you

You are someone who enjoys outdoor work, values teamwork, and takes pride in doing physically active, practical work well. A genuine interest in environmental care, along with a strong work ethic and relevant field skills, will help you succeed in this role.

Essential qualifications and experience

• General Construction Induction Training.
• Current Queensland C-class driver licence, or an equivalent interstate licence.
• Chainsaw operation and maintenance certification at Level 1.
• ACDC Commercial Operators Licence.
• Chemical Accreditation at AQF3 level.
• Practical experience in weed control, including the use of herbicides and pesticides, as well as vegetation restoration work.

Why join Mackay Regional Council

Mackay Regional Council is a financially strong and forward-looking local government organisation that manages $3.5 billion in community assets and employs nearly 1,200 staff.

Mackay is located on the Central Queensland coast and is known for its beaches, rainforests, and access to more than 70 tropical islands. The region also benefits from major industries such as sugar, mining, tourism, and retail, while still offering a relaxed coastal lifestyle.

Benefits and conditions

• Annual base salary of $65,644 to $64,517, plus applicable allowances; the level offered depends on the successful candidate’s qualifications and experience.
• Up to 18% superannuation, subject to conditions.
• Choice of 4 or 5 weeks of annual leave with 17.5% leave loading.
• 9-day fortnight roster.
• Potential eligibility for salary sacrifice options.
• Access to a lifestyle benefits program with corporate discounts.
• Study support and assistance programs for career development.
• Learning and career progression opportunities.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Wellbeing initiatives for employees.
• Active social clubs.

How to apply

Applicants are asked to submit a cover letter and resume that clearly outline relevant experience for the role. If applying through a third-party job board, candidates will be redirected to the Mackay Regional Council careers portal to complete the application process.

Applications close on Thursday, 25 June 2026. If you need help with your application, recruitment staff can be contacted on 1300 MACKAY (1300 622 529).

Important information for applicants

Only candidates with the appropriate Australian working rights can be considered, and these rights will be checked during recruitment.

Applicants who reach the later stages of the process must complete pre-employment assessments, including a medical examination and drug and alcohol testing.

The council is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a respectful, inclusive, and diverse workplace.