Audit and Business Improvement Specialist

About the Opportunity

Do you have experience in internal audit, risk management or business improvement, with strong analytical skills and an interest in improving organisational performance?

We have an exciting 12-month fixed-term opportunity for an Audit and Business Improvement Specialist to join Council. This role brings together internal audit, business improvement and data analytics, providing an opportunity to contribute to how Council reviews its operations, uses information and makes decisions.

Working closely with the General Manager, Directors and Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee, you'll support Council's Internal Audit Program by reviewing and documenting business processes. You'll identify practical ways to improve efficiency, strengthen internal controls and better manage risk.

You'll also work with organisational data to identify trends, monitor performance and develop reports that support informed decision-making and Council's ongoing focus on financial sustainability.

To be successful in this position you will have: 

• A Bachelor's degree in Economics, Law, Business Analytics, Commerce or a relevant discipline.
• Demonstrated experience in internal audit, risk management, compliance or business improvement, including coordinating or supporting audit programs.
• Strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to interpret complex data, prepare reports and identify opportunities for improvement.
• An understanding of internal audit standards, governance, risk management and internal control frameworks.
• Well-developed communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to work collaboratively and provide practical advice and recommendations.

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

Remuneration

$103,063 - $118,523 per annum, plus superannuation

The Benefits

• 12-month temporary position 35 hours per week
• Flexible work arrangement options including hybrid work arrangements, option of nine-day fortnight or monthly RDO
• 12% superannuation 
• Ongoing training and development opportunities including access to Council's Study Assistance program
• Generous corporate fitness program for you and your immediate family members 
• Free flu vaccination program
• Free parking on-site
• Beautiful location in the picturesque Hunter Valley! 

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 26 November 2026 at 11:30pm

Who to Contact: Lisa Ollerton, Chief Financial Officer on (02) 4993 4224 

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.