Frequently asked questions
Who can apply?
Mackay Regional Council is an equal employment opportunity employer who values diversity. We encourage applications from all backgrounds including women, mature age applicants, school-leavers and members of indigenous and other minority groups.
I'm a mature aged person; do you accept applications from a mature person?
Yes, we encourage mature age applicants to apply as we employ on a merit based recruitment process.
I'm under 18 years of age; do you accept applications from someone under 18 years of age?
Yes, we accept applications from applicants under the age of 18 for certain positions, however, consent from your parent or guardian must be obtained prior to application.
If you are under the age of 18 and successful in obtaining an apprenticeship or traineeship, your parent or guardian will be required to attend the medical process and sign relevant documentation upon commencement.
I'm currently completing an apprenticeship; do you accept applications from current apprentices?
The recruitment process is based upon merit and we will consider all applications submitted for the role equally.
I have already completed a Qualification/Certificate can I still apply?
Yes, as long as your certificate is not in the same field you are applying for. For example: if you have a Certificate III in Business and would like to apply for the Certificate III Live Production Traineeship then you certainly can. However, if you have a Certificate III in Business and wanted to apply for a Business Traineeship you would not be eligible. You can also apply if you have a partial certificate.
What does the assessment centre involve?
The assessment centre will be held on November 30 and December 1, 2021 in Mackay. The assessment centre may involve tasks such as:
*literacy and numeracy testing
*group activities designed to assess your problem solving, communication and teamwork skills
If you require assistance with reading or writing, please advise the Mackay Regional Council staff member who contacts you to confirm your attendance at the assessment centre so suitable arrangements can be made prior to the day.
What if I am unable to attend an assessment centre or interview?
Applicants must be able to attend the assessment centre to be considered for one of the roles.
If I don’t have access to a computer how do I apply?
Applications are only accepted via online submission. This will require the use of a desktop computer or laptop as tablets and smartphones aren’t compatible with the Mackay Regional Council e-Recruitment online submission software. There are computer facilities available at local libraries or if you are registered with a local job agency they can assist you with your online submission.
What will my salary be?
Your salary will be in accordance with the Order Apprentices & Trainees Wages & Conditions 2013 Award.
What will my hours be?
Your weekly ordinary hours of work can be 36.25 hours or 38 hours per week in accordance with the current Mackay Regional Council Certified Agreement. These hours will be worked during council’s normal office hours of 6.00am to 6.00pm on Monday to Friday. Certain apprenticeships or traineeships will require you to work nights and weekends and may have varying hours to that stated above.
How do I apply?
To submit your application online, please log on to the Mackay Regional Council website, choose the current vacancies link under the careers tab and submit your application online using the prompts.
Your application will require you to submit the documentation below:
- Current covering letter outlining your interest in applying for the position
- A current up to date resume
- Copies of any relevant qualifications and/or school results
For further information, please review the eRecruitment Applicant Guide found on Council’s website.
PLEASE NOTE: Only PDF and DOCX file formats will be accepted
Can I apply for more than one position?
Yes, you can apply for more than one position, however please ensure you individualise your documentation to reflect the position you are applying for.
I am having difficulty logging onto the vacancy site?
If you are having difficulties logging onto the vacancy site, please review the instructions in the eRecruitment Applicant Guide. If you are still experiencing difficulties, please contact the Recruitment & Selection Team on 1300 622 529 for assistance.
How long is the traineeship or apprenticeship?
The length of apprenticeships and traineeships varies depending on the type of position and qualification you are successful in. Traineeships are generally 12 to 24 months and apprenticeships are generally 36 to 48 months.
When will I hear about my application?
Shortlisted applicants will be contacted in mid-late November, 2021 by phone and email to organise interviews. Remember to check your junk or spam folders for emails. The full apprentice and trainee recruitment process can take two to three months to be completed. Applicants who are not successful in being shortlisted will be contacted by email to advise their application has been unsuccessful.
When will I start?
Successful applicants for the 2022 Apprentice & Trainee Intake will be required to start Monday, January 31, 2022.
For further information regarding the recruitment process and tips for applying for a position, please visit our careers page.