Apprentice and trainee program aims to strengthen workforce

The program is now taking applications for a variety of roles across the organisation.

Deputy Mayor Karen May said the Apprentice and Trainee Intake program offered an opportunity for successful applicants to gain entry level pathways not only into council but the wider workforce.

“Council is a fantastic place to start your career and we encourage people from all walks of life to consider taking on a role in our organisation,” Deputy Mayor May said.

“We have a variety of roles available, from libraries to local laws and horticulture,” she said.

“Our apprenticeships and traineeships often lead to full time work at council and we are very proud to say we have many of our past apprentices and trainees still working here even 10 years later.

“Council prides itself on its apprentice and trainee program as it is vital for long-term workforce planning, helping to transfer knowledge from one generation to the next and building skills and capacity, not just for council but for our community.”

Apprentice plumber Tom Frost said he continued to enjoy his career journey at council.

“Family is really important to me and I enjoy being able to expand my skills and career while still being able to come home every night,” Mr Frost said.

“There are always opportunities to further your career and I enjoy learning and being part of such a close-knit team,” he said.

Former trainee Savannah Vella said council had provided her with a smooth transition into the workforce.

“For me it’s been a great gateway into the workforce from school life – all my supervisors have been encouraging and helpful,” Ms Vella said.

“I strongly encourage anyone considering an apprenticeship or traineeship to apply for one of the council roles,” she said.

The Apprentice and Trainee Intake has a variety of opportunities in a variety of industries, including:

• Apprentice heavy commercial vehicle mechanic.
• Local Laws Trainee.
• Apprentice Electrician.
• Horticultural Trainee.
• Civil Construction Trainee.
• Live Production and Staging Trainee (MECC).
• Warehouse Trainee.
• Information Technology Trainee.
• Surveying and Spatial Information Trainee.
• Business Trainee.
• Library Services Trainee.
• Community Services Trainee.

Council encourages applications from Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people, anyone re-entering the workforce, those from a non-English speaking background, individuals with a disability, impairment or long-term condition, school leavers or an adult worker wishing to change careers or gain new skills.

Applications for the 2024 Apprentice and Trainee Intake are now open, more information on the positions available can be found at Mackay Regional Council - 2024 Trainee and Apprentice Intake.

Applications will close October 19.