Works Manager

About Mareeba Shire

Located in the beautiful tropical north of Australia, the Mareeba Shire is in proximity to two World Heritage Areas, the Great Barrier Reef, and Wet Tropics, and is approximately one hour's drive to Cairns, which boasts an International Airport, cafes, restaurants, theatres and tropical beaches. The Shire stretches across the base of Cape York Peninsula, and comprises rural and remote agricultural communities, Indigenous communities, and world class tourism destinations.

Mareeba Shire Council is a high-performing, community-focused organisation with over 200 dedicated staff, a budgeted annual operating spend of $58.5 million and capital spend of $25.7 million for 2025/26, with the largest single portion ($17.2 million) allocated to road upgrades. Our recent budget was praised in the media for its considered and sensible approach, featuring a modest 3% rate rise, demonstrating our commitment to financial responsibility and community investment. This is a unique opportunity to join a well-regarded council making a real impact across the region.

Works Manager Position

This role is located in the town of Mareeba.

The Works Manager is a strategic leadership role with responsibility for the overall management and delivery of capital works and infrastructure maintenance programs for Mareeba Shire Council. It provides leadership to the Works Group and as a member of the Senior Management Team contributes to organisational strategic planning and policy development.

Works Group Activities

• Transport infrastructure construction and maintenance
• Road Maintenance Performance Contract (RMPC)
• Parks, open spaces and land protection

Specifically, you will be responsible for a range of deliverables including:

• Leadership for the delivery of the capital works and infrastructure maintenance programs
• Alignment of programs with budgetary, legislative and strategic requirements
• Establishment of an integrated approach with strong positive partnerships with internal and external stakeholders
• Development of an environment that fosters a strong sense of team spirit, personal and professional development and a visible commitment to a safe and healthy work environment
• Maintenance of a culture of quality, performance and continuous improvement.

About You

We are seeking a professional with a bachelor's degree or equivalent in civil engineering, project management, construction management, or a related field. Alternatively, you may have significant experience, likely in excess of 15 years, in civil construction or a related industry in a leadership capacity.

You will be able to demonstrate the following skills, expertise and capability:

• Strong leadership, management skills and experience within a multi-disciplinary environment
• Proven track record in managing human, financial and capital resources to provide efficient and effective service delivery
• High level communication and interpersonal skills, including a proven track record in developing effective relationships with a diverse range of internal and external stakeholders
• Sound conflict management and negotiation skills
• Ability leading and managing staff in a team-based environment to optimise both productivity, staff engagement and satisfaction
• Ability in delivering high quality customer service, driving continuous improvement, and the ability to effect cultural change
• Understanding of asset management principles and their application to infrastructure planning, maintenance, and renewal

A competitive remuneration and benefits package will be provided to the right person.

A copy of the position description for the role can be found below.

If you would like more information about the Mareeba Shire, visit: Move to Mareeba Shire

How to Apply

To apply for this position, please send the following documents to Council's recruitment email address

• A cover letter

• Your current resume

• Completed Employment Application form

Applications close: Sunday, 31 August 2025

For a confidential discussion concerning this opportunity please contact Glenda Kirk, Director Infrastructure Services by phone or email

Mareeba Shire Council is committed to the principles of Equal Opportunity and workplace diversity. We encourage a diverse workforce reflective of our community to better meet the needs of our customers.