Environmental Sustainability Officer

What would you do to contact Paul Smith?
What does the Council use to reduce waste?
How many kilometres south east of Melbourne is Bass Coast Shire Council?

Transcription

1 Position Description (for potential applicants) Title: Department: Environmental Sustainability Officer Environment Enquiries: Paul Smith, Environment Manager on telephone 1300 BCOAST ( ) Closing Date: 5.00 pm Friday 12 March 2009 General Information Bass Coast Shire Council is a local government authority administering an area approximately 120 kilometres south east of Melbourne. Its population of 28,800 swells to 70,000 in peak holiday season. Bass Coast is one of the fastest growing regional municipalities in Victoria. The population has risen by 1.4% over the past five years, with similar trends forecast over the coming decade. Population growths are largely fuelled by the sea change phenomenon which impels people to live and retire in popular coastal areas that are relatively close to Melbourne. With such high population increases comes further development from big businesses. Several large businesses have opened their doors in Wonthaggi in the last couple of years. There has been a strong increase in property prices and development as a result of the high demand for residential properties. The area has long been a natural attraction for tourists, with over 3.4 million visitors annually, including 35% of Melbourne s international visitors. In recent years further tourism development has made significant impacts with Phillip Island boasting international attractions and events. The major towns in the Shire are Cowes, Inverloch, San Remo, Grantville and Wonthaggi. Reinvented since its famous coal mines closed in the 1960s, Wonthaggi is the retail, civic and commercial hub of the region. It is a stone s throw from the coast and offers all the services and facilities expected of a large town but with the friendliness for which country towns are famous. Phillip Island is known throughout the world for the Penguin Parade, MotoGP and its surf beaches. A wide range of recreational opportunities and beautiful scenery can be found in the 180 kilometres of coastline stretching from Inverloch around Cape Paterson through Kilcunda to San Remo, circling Phillip Island and on to Coronet Bay, Corinella and Grantville - a coast line first seen by the famous explorer George Bass. The Shire's rural hinterland is less well known than its coast, but includes some of Victoria's prettiest countryside, with rolling hills and quaint towns nestling in the valleys.

2 The Council The municipality is governed by seven elected councillors. The administration of the Council s staff is the responsibility of the Chief Executive Officer under a corporate management structure. The Council has an annual budget of $50 million and employs about 380 staff. The Council s Civic Centre is located in McBride Avenue, Wonthaggi. The Council also provides customer service from offices located in the townships of Cowes, Grantville and Inverloch. The Position This is a replacement position for someone on 12 months leave and will report directly to the Environment Manager and will be part of a dynamic team of people enjoying work in this rare part of the world. Bass Coast Shire Council has an enviable commitment to the natural environment. This is one of four dedicated Environment Project staff. We also have a large contingent of Landcare staff who work with local landcare groups. Our Environment staff also work well with our Parks, Gardens and Maintenance staff. General Conditions Employment will be in accordance with the Bass Coast Shire Council Enterprise Agreement (6) 2009 (EBA), the policies and procedures of Council, and any workplace agreements that may be negotiated from time to time. Hours The hours are based on a 38 hour week, generally worked Monday to Friday between 8.30am and 5.00pm. However, due to the nature of the work there will be other times including weekends when work is rostered. Salary The position is classified as Band 5 in accordance with the EBA with an annualised salary ranging from $49,000 to $57,000 plus superannuation and other benefits. Pre-employment Medical Applicants may be required to undergo a pre-employment medical examination. Key Selection Criteria The key selection criteria against which applicants will be assessed is outlined on the last page of this document. February 2010 page 2 of 8

3 Employee Benefits The health and wellbeing of staff is of paramount importance at Bass Coast. As such there are a wide range of initiatives available for staff to take advantage of. Flexible work hours, 48/52 arrangements, job-share options, counselling services, health checks, vaccinations, massage, pilates/yoga and discounted gym memberships are some of the options available through our health and wellbeing program. Further Enquiries For further information on the position, please contact: Paul Smith Environment Manager 1300 BCOAST ( ) Applications Applications are to be addressed to Cheryl Sanders, Human Resources Coordinator, Bass Coast Shire Council and sent by or post to: jobapps@basscoast.vic.gov.au or; PO Box 118 Wonthaggi VIC 3995 Applications close: 5.00 pm Friday 12 March 2009 Bass Coast Shire Council is an Equal Opportunity employer. February 2010 page 3 of 8

4 Position Description Position: Environmental Sustainability Officer Classification: Band 5 Status (EFT): Temporary (1.0) Work Team: Occupant: Enviornment Vacant Date: January Position Objectives To develop and implement programs to encourage sustainable farming practices and reduce water, waste and energy use from Council operations and the Community including monitoring and reporting. To assist in implementation of stormwater, litter, energy efficiency and overall natural resource sustainability educational strategies and training programs in order to create positive changes in behaviour patterns within Council and the community. To provide supervision and educational assistance to volunteer groups carrying out environmental and sustainability projects and programs. To supervise and monitor contractors engaged to carry out minor works of an environmental nature. To provide general research assistance and advice to the staff of the organisation in relation to environmental management functions and policy development. 2. Key Responsibility Areas 2.1 Program and Project Management Undertake the administration and inspectorial duties associated with the Bass Coast Shire Land Management Biodiversity Incentive Scheme including the Rural Rate Rebate. Undertake the data gathering, administration, monitoring and reporting for the Cities for Climate Protection Program and other emission and resource use reduction programs. Assist in the development and implementation of the Council s pest plant and animal s eradication program on coastal areas and in bushland reserves. 2.2 Promotional, Educational and Training Identify gaps in information and knowledge available to the community, industry, commercial sector, building sector, schools and Council staff and assist in the March 2010 page 4 of 8

5 - 5 - development of education and training programs that will assist the Council in achieving its strategic objectives related to the environment. Represent Council at local environmental public forums/workshops as required. Prepare press releases and articles for local newspapers, Council information documents and School Newsletters to promote environment and sustainability education activities being undertaken throughout the Shire. Liaise with all relevant government bodies to ensure that Councils policies and strategies are integrated with those agencies. 2.3 Contract and Volunteer Supervision Undertake clearly defined inspectorial duties in relation to environmental and management works and provide onsite supervision of contractors (for minor works only) and volunteer groups working on programs and projects in the environmental and coastal management field. Ensure safe work practices are carried out by contractors and volunteers, particularly ensuring compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act, 1985 and associated regulations and guidelines. 2.4 Management Support Gather data, prepare and assist in the preparation of strategic plans and reports on environmental, sustainability and coastal management aspects as required including the public consultation process Investigate and pursue all possible avenues for obtaining funding and resources for implementation of Council s environmental, sustainability and coastal management objectives. Initiate and prepare responses to customer enquiries related to environment, sustainability and coastal management issues. Assist with the monitoring of costs to ensure that programs and projects are undertaken within budget. 3. Organisational relationships Reports to: Supervises: Environment Manager Nil 4. Accountability and extent of authority While being accountable for the quality, cost and timeliness of work carried out, the freedom to act is not simply limited to standards and procedures. Know and understand the system that you work in and help the organisation improve outcomes and provide high value to customers (internal and external) by improving systems, processes and relationships with a commitment to the philosophy of Business Excellence. March 2010 page 5 of 8

6 - 6 - Accountable for the quality and timeliness of work performed and advice given which must be consistent with legislation, awards, industrial agreements/contracts, contemporary HR practices, performance targets, quality and corporate plans and organisational policies and procedures. Understanding and compliance with risk management policy and procedures. Accountable for carrying out duties having regard for the safety of self, workmates and the general public, and also having regard for the safe and accountable use of all relevant plant and equipment. Working Together (Equal Employment Opportunity) principles must be observed at all times. Expected to fully utilise staff newsletters, consultative committees and staff representatives for communication purposes on general employment related matters. Understanding and compliance with the Code of Conduct and all employment policies. Compliance with Customer Service Charter, protocols and all other service standards of the organisation. The community and staff awareness of the effects of stormwater, litter, energy efficiency and overall natural resource and sustainability issues on our environment. The quality and effectiveness of programs under the control of the position. Regular reporting on project budgets. Develop and implement programs to meet the position s and Council s objectives. 5. Competencies 5.1 Judgement and decision making Work can involve solving problems using professional experience and at times requiring creativity and initiative. Guidance and advice is usually available within time to make a decision. Decision making decisions to be based on the objectives of the Team, policies and procedures of the organisation. Problem solving resolve day to day problems using team and organisational objectives and processes as a guide. Innovation identify initiatives that will result in operations being carried out in the most efficient and effective manner. March 2010 page 6 of 8

7 Specialist skills and knowledge Requires an understanding of the team s and organisation s long term goals and of the underlying principles that apply to the legislation and standards of the organisation. Education - demonstrated knowledge and understanding of how to effectively create and implement public education programs. Proficiency in the application of standard procedures and practices within the education system. Sustainability - demonstrated interest and understanding in environmental and sustainability issues particularly relating to stormwater, litter and energy efficiency. IT - intermediate skills in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher and data bases. 5.3 Management skills Specific objectives are achieved by an efficient use of the resources and setting priorities are required. Time management - excellent skills in managing own time, planning and organising own work and setting priorities to ensure tasks are carried out effectively. Financial management - demonstrated ability to effectively manage small project budgets. 5.4 Interpersonal skills Relate to others to gain their understanding, appreciation and support for the work being undertaken, including the preparation of reports correspondence and presentations. Communication - well-developed written and verbal communication skills required preparing reports and educational material for the program. Relationships - ability to gain cooperation and assistance from primary schools, local industry, the business community and primary school aged children. 5.5 Qualifications and experience Either a tertiary qualification with no experience or a lesser qualification with relevant experience needs to be drawn upon to meet key responsibilities. Relevant experience in developing and implementing public education programs is essential. Tertiary training in education and/or natural resources is desirable. Current Victorian Drivers Licence essential. March 2010 page 7 of 8

8 Key Selection Criteria The key selection criteria against which applicants are assessed includes the ability to demonstrate: A passion for the natural environment. Tertiary qualifications in Environment or a related field is desirable. Proven experience in developing and implementing sustainability and envionmental programs. Strong written and oral communication skills. Administration and Microsoft Office skills. Data Analysis Current Victorian Driver s Licence. Potential to develop in all competency areas. The qualifications, skills and experience outlined in this position description are ideals to which the occupant will aspire. Unless specifically stated, they are not absolutely essential. March 2010 page 8 of 8

Environmental Sustainability Officer

What would you do to contact Paul Smith?

What does the Council use to reduce waste?

How many kilometres south east of Melbourne is Bass Coast Shire Council?