Economic Development Officer

About the opportunity

We are seeking a dynamic Economic Development Officer to lead initiatives that strengthen the local economy and position Cessnock LGA as a thriving destination for business, tourism, and film. In this role, you will develop and maintain strong relationships with local businesses, industry groups, and key stakeholders, ensuring Council’s communications and brand effectively support the business community.

You will deliver business development and capacity-building programs, support the delivery events and investment attraction, and oversee Council’s grants and sponsorship initiatives, unlocking opportunities that foster growth and resilience. Additionally, you will coordinate film and media attraction activities, helping to showcase the region’s unique character and economic potential.

We are looking for a proactive, highly skilled communicator with a passion for economic development and a proven ability to engage and influence diverse stakeholders. If you’re ready to make a real impact and champion Cessnock’s economic future, we want to hear from you!

To find out more about your next career opportunity: Position Description

Remuneration

$87,711 - $100,867 per annum plus 13% superannuation

The Benefits

• Full-time, 35 hours per week
• Flexible work arrangement options including hybrid work arrangements, option of nine-day fortnight or monthly RDO
• 13% superannuation
• Generous leave entitlements, including paid parental leave and Long Service Leave after 5 years
• Ongoing training and development opportunities with access to Council's Study Assistance Program
• Corporate fitness program for you and immediate family members 
• Regular wellbeing programs and free annual flu vaccinations
• Free parking on-site
• Beautiful office location in the heart of the Hunter Valley

About you

We're seeking someone with a degree qualification or relevant experience in Commerce, Business, Marketing, Social Science, or a related field. You'll have a proven ability to develop innovative strategies that address economic development challenges, along with experience securing corporate sponsorships or grant funding. Strong interpersonal, communication, and public presentation skills are essential, as is the ability to work effectively with a broad range of internal and external stakeholders. Solid time management skills and the ability to manage competing priorities are also important. A current Class C driver’s licence is required for this role.

What's Next?

We encourage you to apply by completing the application form below and uploading a copy of your resume. 

Your candidate suitability is determined by your responses to the selection criteria questions, for more information on how to address the selection criteria please visit our How to apply page.

Pre-Employment Screening

Please note, prior to an offer of employment being made, recommended candidates may be required to undertake a medical assessment (including drug and alcohol testing) and other pre-employment checks, such as references, employment history checks, working with children checks or a criminal record check.

About Us

At Cessnock City Council our success is built by our people and core values. We offer you a direct connection to the community, providing opportunities to both inspire growth and sustainability in our diverse region. We're committed to building a passionate and inclusive workforce. 

We are committed to the value of respect, and we strive to have an inclusive workforce that is reflective of the diverse populations we serve. We welcome applications from qualified individuals of all ages and genders, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people from culturally diverse backgrounds, the LGBTQIA+ community, veterans and people with disabilities.

We partner with the Veterans Employment Program and the NSW Government to implement recruitment practices dedicated to supporting veterans to pursue a career in local government. Our aim is to support veterans finding suitable, sustainable and meaningful employment.

There are options available to request adjustments. If you need any adjustments to be made to the recruitment process or if you would like to discuss any accessibility requirements, please contact recruitment@cessnock.nsw.gov.au for a confidential discussion.

Applications Close: Thursday 22 January 2026 at 11.30pm

Who to Contact: Chrissy Grainger, Economic Development Lead on 0472 610 784.

You must have the right to live and work in Australia to apply for this position.

Guided by staff values of integrity, respect, teamwork, accountability and excellence, Cessnock City Council is indeed an attractive, thriving Council and employer of choice.