Graduate Engagement Officer

We know you are driven by growth and opportunity, eager to progress quickly and determined to make an impact. That’s why we offer a full time 12-month immersive graduate program designed to unlock your potential and equip you with the knowledge, skills and hands-on experience to excel in your chosen career.

Working alongside industry leaders, you will contribute to a range of projects and initiatives that help shape and connect our City, providing real world opportunities to grow, develop and progress. Through our tailored development program, valuable industry connections and the support of our Graduate Academy community, you’ll build the skills, networks and confidence to create the career you want!

Be part of the next gen of GC Shapers

Starting February 2026, our program provides professional development training and on-the-job experience pathways, designed to smoothly transition you from academic study into the workplace. As a graduate at the City, you will benefit from:

• opportunities to contribute to a range of projects and initiatives you won’t find anywhere else.
• guidance and coaching from future-focused industry leaders, mentors and peers.
• flexibility to design your graduate experience and career direction.
• networking opportunities, city tours, exclusive CEO talks and graduate team events.
• work-based training and an extensive range of personal, professional and career development training designed to set you up for success.
• assistance and support on your path to accreditation.
• a healthy work-life balance including a 9-day fortnight, flexible working from home options and generous leave entitlements.

What’s on offer

Join a dynamic and purpose-driven team leading community and stakeholder engagement across the City of Gold Coast’s most significant and visible projects, and to inform strategic decision-making. Whether you are building relationships with local communities, advising on engagement for major infrastructure projects or driving strategic community engagement plans, you will play a key role in connecting the City with the people it serves.

As part of a high-performing stakeholder engagement team, you will help shape and deliver communication and engagement strategies for key City initiatives, working across departments to support inclusive, transparent, and impactful decision-making. You will provide advice and support to stakeholders, assist in planning and executing engagement campaigns and contribute to continuous improvement across engagement functions. If you're adaptable, collaborative and passionate about making a difference in your community - this is your opportunity to grow and thrive!

What we are looking for

The City is committed to developing skilled graduates into future City leaders who:

• are curious, motivated and driven to make a difference for the future of the Gold Coast.
• embrace innovation with a forward-thinking and creative mindset.
• seek continuous learning opportunities and are committed to ongoing professional growth.
• are willing to embrace new challenges, learn new skills and adapt quickly.
• can analyse information, think logically and solve problems creatively.
• possess excellent written, verbal and interpersonal skills and can convey ideas clearly, listen attentively and collaborate effectively.
• contribute positively to the team dynamic, respect diverse perspectives and foster a productive work environment.

Who can apply? 

To be considered for this opportunity you must hold a recognised bachelor's degree or post graduate qualification from a tertiary institution, completed within the last two years or be completing prior to the commencement of the program in February 2026. Applicants must have full working rights in Australia for the duration of the program and be able to work full-time.

The Graduate Engagement Officer welcomes graduates who have studied Bachelor of Business, Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, Social Science (majoring in Communication and Social Change); and related fields.

Apply Now!

Submit your academic transcript / qualification, CV and cover letter. In your cover letter please outline information about your career objectives, work experience, education, volunteering and any extracurricular activities, specialist skills or interests you may have. 

Ready to shape your future? Learn more on our Careers Page: Graduate Academy | City of Gold Coast, and for more information see the Graduate Position Brief (Click here) or contact careerpathways@goldcoast.qld.gov.au 

The City of Gold Coast is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to promoting an inclusive and diverse workplace. We are committed to supporting an environment where all employees, regardless of their differences or similarities, feel valued, respected and supported.