Application Process
Cairns Regional Council has streamlined our recruitment / application process. The following information will detail this new process and provide you with the information on how to apply.
In most cases, you no longer have to address each individual selection criteria in writing. Instead, you are asked to tailor your application to address three main elements in a covering letter and provide your resume. Please keep the covering letter brief (from two to three pages). Unless specifically requested, there is no need to write individual responses to the Selection Criteria in the Position Description. For some particular positions you may be required to provide specific answers and this will be provided in the Information Kit.
What is required
Using the streamlined process for short listing means your application will be assessed against the three main elements:
When preparing your application, read through the Key Duties and Responsibilities and Selection Criteria within the Position Description and organise your information under the three headings to create your covering letter. You can use the Selection Criteria to help you identify how your knowledge, skills, experience, personal attributes and qualifications are most relevant to the position.
The chairperson of the selection panel may contact you for further clarification of your application during the short listing process.
Tip - Your resume should provide details of your educational qualifications, work history, special skills, training details and referees, plus any other information, which may support your application. Please do not include with your resume originals or copies of your certificates, licences or tickets as copies will be taken at interview if you are short listed. Be clear and informative. Include the names, position titles, addresses and telephone numbers of at least three (3) referees.
Addressing the three main elements
When addressing the three main elements you should ensure that your responses are relevant to the position. Using bullet points with examples is a simple approach to demonstrate how you meet the requirements of the position. When using examples try keeping to the following STAR principles:
Situation - What was the situation? Start by providing an example of a where and when you carried out a specific task, used a required skill or demonstrated the particular knowledge.
Task - What were the tasks involved? Write about what your role was and what you did or were responsible for such as the tasks or duties you undertook that demonstrate your skills, knowledge or ability.
Action - What actions did you take to achieve the tasks? What skills, knowledge or ability did you use, what did you do and how did you do it?
Result - What resulted from the actions you took? What did you achieve and what were the results of what you did?
Tip – We encourage the use of bullet points when addressing each element. Using short, concise responses enables the panel members to assess your application more effectively.
Qualifications
Include details of and where you attained any education, training, qualifications, tickets and licences including those you are working towards.
Knowledge, Skills and Expertise
Identify relevant knowledge, skills and work experience as it relates to this role. Your response might provide examples that give details of the nature and extent of your experience, skills, your responsibilities and any notable accomplishments or achievements.
People Oriented Skills and Attributes
These are personal characteristics you possess that would make you successful in this role. For example if you are articulate and a good listener and the role requires you to provide excellent communication skills you need to demonstrate situations where you have exhibited this and how it will be of benefit to the role.
Short listing
Each vacant position has a selection panel established to oversee the recruitment process. The selection panel comprises of 2-3 people who will assess how well your knowledge, skills, experience, personal attributes and qualifications meet the requirements of the role.
All appointments are made based on merit principles.
If you are short listed for interview, the interview will be conducted against the Selection Criteria contained in the Position Description.
How long does the process take?
Positions are generally finalised 4-6 weeks from the closing date. All applicants will receive a letter of receipt via mail or email (if you have provided an email address) acknowledging your application. Applicants not short listed for interview will receive advice that they were unsuccessful via mail or email. If you have been short-listed you will be invited to attend an interview.
Will an application be accepted after the close date?
Late applications will be accepted at the discretion of the selection panel.
If you are short listed for interview
If you are short listed for interview the chairperson of the selection panel will contact you to arrange an interview time. The interview will be conducted by a selection panel and will consist of 2-3 people.
For each position short listed candidates will be asked the same set of questions at interview. These questions will be developed by the selection panel using the Selection Criteria contained in the Position Description.
Interviews can vary in duration dependent upon the requirements of the role with each short listed candidate afforded equal interview time. Please allow an hour for your interview.
If you are selected for interview you must bring along any original certificates or licences that are required of the position for verification by the selection panel.
Referee checks are carried out post interview with the selection panel’s recommended candidate.
Assessment of skills / ability to perform tasks of the position
In some instances Council may require you to undertake a practical assessment to demonstrate your skills and ability to perform the tasks of the position and/or a pre-employment medical assessment.
Tip - If you are selected for interview dress appropriately in clothing that is comfortable and presentable and plan to arrive 15 minutes prior to the interview to familiarise yourself with the environment. For some positions you may be given the interview questions to review within this 15 minute period.
Notification of Appointment
Within a week of the interview you will be advised verbally if you are recommended or unsuccessful for the position.
Post
Manager Human Resources
Cairns Regional Council
PO Box 359
CAIRNS QLD 4870
Fax
+ 617 40443022
In Person
Manager Human Resources
Cairns Regional Council
119-145 Spence Street
CAIRNS QLD 4870
