Job Description
We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Open Space & Recreation Development Officer to join our team at Willoughby City Council!
About us
When you join Willoughby City Council you join a close-knit team with a big impact. We are dynamic, diverse and future-focused. We value team players who are willing to roll up their sleeves and get the job done. We serve the community and make it our job to make people’s lives better. It’s all in a day’s work.
You’ll have the freedom to grow in your career alongside likeminded people who will support you every step of the way. You’ll be part of our transformation as a Council and shape the future for the residents of Willoughby. And you’ll do it all from a thriving hub in Sydney, in the culturally-rich area we are so proud to call home.
About you
You’re looking for a role with purpose, one where you can make a meaningful difference. You have so much to offer. And we can see that. As much as you bring to the table, we provide you with the support you need to accelerate your career growth.
We are constantly evolving… and that change brings with it new directions, skillsets and thinking for you to embrace. Through collaboration and projects across the organisation, you will have incredible opportunities come your way. How far you take them, well, that’s in your hands.
No two days are the same at Willoughby City Council. In our Community, Culture & Leisure team, you’ll need a broad set of skills and an eagerness to learn. As a customer-facing team member, you’ll respect the diversity of our community and be committed to leaving things better than you found them.
Collaboration is how we do things. We work together and always share our achievements. The work we do is important. And as a member of our team, you’ll wear that with pride.
About the role
The Open Space and Recreation Development Officer’s primary purpose is to develop and deliver initiatives that support local community sport organisations and park volunteers. Collaborating with stakeholders and the community, you will build the capacity and capability of volunteer-based organisations and deliver programs across the Willoughby area to promote community connection, resilience, health and wellbeing.
You will confidently establish and manage relationships with community, sport and recreation organisations and provide specialist advice on governance, sustainability and grant applications. You will oversee, coordinate and deliver community volunteer programs and one-off opportunities across Council’s parks with a focus on park maintenance and beautification projects.
Requirements
Relevant tertiary qualifications in community development, volunteer/sport management or other related discipline or equivalent
Proven experience in volunteer/stakeholder management within a dynamic and challenging environment
Well-development knowledge and experience in the delivery of a range of outcomes relative to the sport and recreation industry, industry standards and best practices
A deep understanding of the challenges faced by sport and recreation community groups, volunteer capabilities and limitations and contemporary solutions to address these challenges
Demonstrated experience in planning, developing, implementing and evaluating programs and events with a recreation or leisure focus
How to apply
Apply now to join us at Willoughby City Council where you can add value and be valued for the meaningful work you do.
When you work at Willoughby Council, you will work with a diverse group of like-minded people who have people and the community at the forefront in everything we do. Check out our employee benefits on our careers page to see:
Where you can look after yourself and your loved ones
Where you can enhance your wellbeing
Where you can grow, develop and be part of a team
https://www.willoughby.nsw.gov.au/Council/Working-with-us/Careers
Enquiries: Stephen Alderton – Open Space and Recreation Team Lead – 02 +777 7+78.
Applications must address all of the key responsibilities outlined in the Position Description.
Please note being fully vaccinated for Covid-1+ is a requirement prior to commencement of employment with Willoughby City Council, except where a medical contraindication certificate is provided.
Successful candidates may be required to undertake pre-employment screening including police and qualification checks.
Applications close: 11.30 pm, Sunday 8 September 2026
Please note recruitment activity may commence before the closing date.
About us
When you join Willoughby City Council you join a close-knit team with a big impact. We are dynamic, diverse and future-focused. We value team players who are willing to roll up their sleeves and get the job done. We serve the community and make it our job to make people’s lives better. It’s all in a day’s work.
You’ll have the freedom to grow in your career alongside likeminded people who will support you every step of the way. You’ll be part of our transformation as a Council and shape the future for the residents of Willoughby. And you’ll do it all from a thriving hub in Sydney, in the culturally-rich area we are so proud to call home.
About you
You’re looking for a role with purpose, one where you can make a meaningful difference. You have so much to offer. And we can see that. As much as you bring to the table, we provide you with the support you need to accelerate your career growth.
We are constantly evolving… and that change brings with it new directions, skillsets and thinking for you to embrace. Through collaboration and projects across the organisation, you will have incredible opportunities come your way. How far you take them, well, that’s in your hands.
No two days are the same at Willoughby City Council. In our Community, Culture & Leisure team, you’ll need a broad set of skills and an eagerness to learn. As a customer-facing team member, you’ll respect the diversity of our community and be committed to leaving things better than you found them.
Collaboration is how we do things. We work together and always share our achievements. The work we do is important. And as a member of our team, you’ll wear that with pride.
About the role
The Open Space and Recreation Development Officer’s primary purpose is to develop and deliver initiatives that support local community sport organisations and park volunteers. Collaborating with stakeholders and the community, you will build the capacity and capability of volunteer-based organisations and deliver programs across the Willoughby area to promote community connection, resilience, health and wellbeing.
You will confidently establish and manage relationships with community, sport and recreation organisations and provide specialist advice on governance, sustainability and grant applications. You will oversee, coordinate and deliver community volunteer programs and one-off opportunities across Council’s parks with a focus on park maintenance and beautification projects.
Requirements
Relevant tertiary qualifications in community development, volunteer/sport management or other related discipline or equivalent
Proven experience in volunteer/stakeholder management within a dynamic and challenging environment
Well-development knowledge and experience in the delivery of a range of outcomes relative to the sport and recreation industry, industry standards and best practices
A deep understanding of the challenges faced by sport and recreation community groups, volunteer capabilities and limitations and contemporary solutions to address these challenges
Demonstrated experience in planning, developing, implementing and evaluating programs and events with a recreation or leisure focus
How to apply
Apply now to join us at Willoughby City Council where you can add value and be valued for the meaningful work you do.
When you work at Willoughby Council, you will work with a diverse group of like-minded people who have people and the community at the forefront in everything we do. Check out our employee benefits on our careers page to see:
Where you can look after yourself and your loved ones
Where you can enhance your wellbeing
Where you can grow, develop and be part of a team
https://www.willoughby.nsw.gov.au/Council/Working-with-us/Careers
Enquiries: Stephen Alderton – Open Space and Recreation Team Lead – 02 +777 7+78.
Applications must address all of the key responsibilities outlined in the Position Description.
Please note being fully vaccinated for Covid-1+ is a requirement prior to commencement of employment with Willoughby City Council, except where a medical contraindication certificate is provided.
Successful candidates may be required to undertake pre-employment screening including police and qualification checks.
Applications close: 11.30 pm, Sunday 8 September 2026
Please note recruitment activity may commence before the closing date.
💡 Quick Summary
Seeking a career-building opportunity? The Open Space and Recreation Development Officer | Part|time | 4 days per week position is now open for candidates interested in the Government Job Alert sector. This role in Sydney offers a professional environment and growth potential.
Requirement Snapshot: Candidates should possess basic communication skills, a proactive attitude, and the ability to work in a team. Experience in Government Job Alert is a plus.