Careers

Our values are crafted by our people. They guide our everyday behaviours and reflect us at our best.

Make a difference 

• We care about our community and strive to be our best every day.  
• We act with integrity in the best interests of our city and colleagues. 

Better together 

• We do our best when we listen to the voices of others and work as a team.  
• We celebrate our diversity, finding ways for everyone to belong. 

Embrace possibilities 

• We encourage curiosity and are open to new ideas. 
• We challenge ourselves to find solutions for our city and our organisation.

1. An opportunity to make a difference

Working here gives you the chance to engage with communities, influence the physical environment and contribute to the sustainability and growth of Sydney. We encourage you to be yourself – we value individuality and the creativity it sparks making for an interesting and productive workforce.

2. A diverse community

We employ a diverse staff from a range of geographic, cultural and demographic backgrounds. Innovation is promoted to better serve our communities.

3. Be part of something special

Working here means you are part of something bigger than yourself. Your work will be a vital contribution to make Sydney a better place. You will be working with passionate, friendly, supportive people committed to working together to deliver for our communities – residents, workers and visitors.

4. Create endless opportunities

Training and development allows our employees to improve their skill set. We also encourage you to further your education with tertiary qualifications, including post graduate study.

5. Commitment to safety and welfare

While we work hard, we are committed to your wellbeing. Getting the balance right is important to us. We place great emphasis on ensuring our workplace is safe and accessible.

We employ around 1,900 people across a diverse range of areas and occupations:

• Frontline services including customer service, libraries, childcare, community centres and rangers.
• Operations including parks, trees and aquatic centres, security and emergency management, city infrastructure and traffic operations, cleansing and waste management, and venue management.
• Events including major cultural and community events, late night economy and safe city.
• Projects and property including design, streetscapes and portfolio management.
• Planning and development including health and building, planning assessments, access and transport.
• Corporate services including legal, governance, finance, strategy, marketing, community consultation and workforce and information services.

We invest in our employees to further self-growth and become future leaders, which will allow us to better serve the community. Our leadership and management capability framework supports development, mentoring and coaching opportunities.

We believe our people are the key to our success. A range of initiatives and programs are available to encourage our people to develop their skills and career. These are some of the benefits we offer.

Competitive salaries

• Salaries consistently above the industry average.
• Employee assistance program offering free, confidential and professional external counselling.
• Access to health promotion activities and programs.
• Free membership to our network of public libraries.
• Sports and social club with benefits including discounts to social functions and entertainment such as plays and musicals.
• Cultural diversity.
• City centre workplaces easily accessible by public transport.

Professional development programs

• Significant fee reimbursement for further study under our higher and tertiary education program.
• Exam and study leave for approved courses of study.
• Access to nationally recognised education and training programs.
• Future leaders program.
• Service and recognition awards.
• Corporate development programs.

Flexible working provisions

• 19 day month (flexible working arrangements policy).
• Generous leave provisions.
• 36 weeks (half pay) or 18 weeks (full pay) paid maternity leave.
• Paid paternity leave at time of birth and if primary care giver.

Gender pay equity

In 2022, our gender pay gap was 10.5% in favour of women.

When we compared men and women earnings as total pay, there was a gender pay gap of 5.3% in favour of men.

The national gender pay gap in 2022 was 14.1% in favour of men – 12.2% for the public sector and 17% for private sector organisations.

As we strive for equal gender pay, we review and report on our gender pay equity each year.

Your application should include these 2 documents:

• your resume
• your selection criteria responses.

You will need to save them as separate documents in either Word or PDF.

Your resume should include your employment history, experience and education.

As part of your application, we also need the name and contact details of 2 referees. The referees should be people who have supervised you or have a working knowledge of your previous roles.

We will not contact your referees until we have your permission.

Each position at the City has specific criteria necessary for employees to be able to perform the role, which is contained in the essential criteria section of the position description.

Your application needs to include a response to each essential criterion, clearly demonstrating how your qualifications or experience help you meet the requirements of the role. As a general guide, at least 2 to 3 paragraphs are sufficient, although you may choose to provide more. 

Addressing the selection criteria is a crucial component of your job application, so it is vital you do not rely on your resume alone to demonstrate your skills and experience.

Other documents may be included as part of your application and can include the following:

• cover letter
• copy of your qualifications
• work samples.

Due to file size limitations when you submit your application it may be better to instead bring any work samples if you are invited for an interview.

When you sign up to our online recruitment system, you will be able to lodge your application electronically and receive email notifications when positions are advertised.

1. Click on the job you wish to apply for and enter your login and password. Click the forgot password link if you've forgotten it.
2. A copy of the advertisement and details of the position you are interested in will appear. You can download it as a PDF at the bottom of the description.
3. Click apply now and follow the prompts.

Documents can be attached as Word or PDF files. The best way to upload your documents to the system is to make sure you save them to your computer before starting the application process. Please ensure that the document is closed when you try to attach it or our system will not recognise it.

Note: If you have previously submitted an application for another position, your documents will still be available in your profile when you login.

You can then upload them from your profile by simply clicking the circle to the left and clicking ‘upload’.

If you wish to upload a new document as part of your application, please ensure it is saved as a different file name from any previous document you uploaded as our system will not recognise it as a new file. For example, if you named your previous document ‘resume’ and are uploading a newer version, you may want to name it ‘resume2’.

If your application has been successfully uploaded to our online system you will receive an email notification confirming we have received your application.

If you do not receive a confirmation email after lodging your application or you are experiencing other issues when applying, please contact the recruitment team to confirm we have received your application:

• 02 9265 9333
• [email protected]

Your application should be lodged through our online application system before the closing date. Applications sent by email are generally not accepted for our advertised positions.

Our positions are advertised for a minimum of 14 days and close at 11pm on the advertised closing date.

The position will automatically be removed from our website at midnight on the closing date and no further applications will be accepted.

We promote merit-based selection and equal employment opportunity for all positions. It is essential when you address the selection criteria you provide sufficient examples to demonstrate your ability to perform the duties of the role. 

The interview panel will review all applications received following the closing date of the position and applicants who meet the selection criteria will be shortlisted for interview as soon as possible.

When reviewing your application the interview panel considers your:

• resume
• selection criteria responses
• experience and qualifications.

You may not be shortlisted for interview if you:

• do not satisfy the selection criteria
• do not hold the necessary formal qualifications
• are not eligible for employment based on your residency status
• provide false or misleading information.

Applicants who meet the selection criteria may not always be invited for an interview as we receives a large number of applications for our positions. Our decision to shortlist candidates for interview are therefore based on applicants who best meet the selection criteria.

If you are shortlisted for an interview, the convenor of the interview panel will generally contact you by phone or email. We will then arrange an appropriate date, time and interview location with you, and you will also be able to ask the convenor any questions you may have about the interview process.

As a general rule applicants invited to attend an interview should:

• arrive on time
• dress appropriately – office attire is generally suitable
• review the position description thoroughly.

If your application has been unsuccessful, our recruitment team will contact you by email as soon as possible.

• A copy of your application
• Original qualifications or certificates
• Work samples
• Photo identification such as driver's licence or passport.

The interview panel will generally consist of 3 people: the convenor who's usually the hiring manager of the position, an industry expert and an independent member from within our organisation.

Questions asked will be based on the selection criteria. They are designed to draw out examples of your previous experience and behaviours.

Some testing may be used for some positions but if it is required you will be notified before the interview date and given sufficient time to prepare.

As part of the interview process you may be required to undertake relevant pre-employment checks. These may include but are not limited to the following.

Referee checks

The convenor of the interview panel will ask for your permission to contact your nominated referees to confirm or verify what is stated in your application and during your interview.

If we are unable to contact your nominated referees within a suitable time period we will contact you and ask you to provide alternative referees.

Criminal history record check

A number of positions are identified as requiring a criminal history check. We will conduct the check on your behalf.

If the position you are applying for requires a criminal history record check, you will be given the appropriate forms to complete, which you will need to return along with 100 points of identification.

The results of your criminal history check will be kept confidential by the recruitment team. 

Pre-employment health assessment

All recommended applicants are required to undertake a pre-employment health assessment as part of the recruitment process.

A number of positions are identified as requiring a pre-employment medical check. There is no fee associated with the health assessment.

All other positions require a health declaration form to be completed.

Your health assessment/health declaration will be kept confidential by the recruitment team.

Working with children check

A current working with children check will be required for applicants recommended to be employed in a child-related position.

Checks will be conducted in accordance with current legislation.

The code of conduct provides a set of guidelines for all employees.

This code guides everything we do and outlines what is expected for all employees.

Key principles underpinning the code are integrity, selflessness, accountability, honesty and respect.

We're committed to providing a working environment free from discrimination.

Diversity, respect, equity and merit are part of our equal employment opportunity and anti-discrimination programs and strategies for employees.

We are also committed to employing and selecting people for jobs based on merit. This ensures the person selected for the job has the skills, knowledge, personal qualities and experience to meet the job requirements.

Equal opportunity is actively promoted by:

• creating an environment free of discrimination and harassment
• providing clear and accountable policies and practices
• developing equity strategies, plans and diversity programs to increase workplace access for under-represented groups
• providing employees with comprehensive learning and awareness programs on equity issues
• providing effective solutions to resolve complaints.

Our EEO strategies

EEO management plan

Our EEO management plan details the strategies and activities undertaken to ensure our objectives are met.

The plan is updated yearly.

Recruitment

We encourage applications from a diverse range of applicants. We are an EEO employer and welcome applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people from diverse cultures and people with disability.

We ensure every person is given a fair and equitable opportunity to compete for any vacant position, including access to interviews.

Employment

We maintain work practices to eliminate discrimination. Information on the our EEO/anti-discrimination principles, including the EEO management plan is made available to all employees.

Training and development for managers

Managers are trained to ensure when applicants are interviewed for positions, an applicant’s merit will be determined only on their skills, experience and qualifications.

Training and development is consistent with the principles of equity and support our EEO objectives. This ensures all employees have the opportunity to contribute to our overall success as well as enhancing their individual skills and competencies.

We consistently strives to support and promote an inclusive and diverse workplace. We do this by ensuring employees are encouraged to demonstrate best practice and legislative changes.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

We’re dedicated to ensuring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have lifelong and meaningful careers with us.

Our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workforce strategy is a key action of our Stretch reconciliation action plan. It supports us to progress an important part of reconciliation – increasing economic equity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. It also demonstrates our commitment to the National Agreement on Closing the Gap.

To improve access to employment opportunities, any Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person who applies for a position at the City of Sydney, and meets the criteria for the position, will be granted an interview.

If you’re an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person interested in joining our talent pool, forward your resume to Sara Hamilton, workforce advisor – Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander inclusion, by email at [email protected]. Alternatively, you can contact the recruitment team by email at [email protected] or by phone 02 9265 9333.

People with disability

We’re committed to removing barriers and encouraging people with disability and carer responsibilities in the workplace.

If you identify as a person with disability and require adjustments to the application, recruitment, selection or assessment process, email [email protected] or phone 02 9265 9333. Alternatively, you can contact Rodney Waterson, manager recruitment and HR systems at [email protected].

We're proud to be an employer of choice for people with disability and achieve the Australian Network on Disability’s Disability Confident Recruiter status.

LGBTIQ communities

We encourage people to be their best and achieve their potential. For LGBTIQ employees, that means offering a safe and respectful working environment where everyone feels valued. We're proud to be an organisation where LGBTIQ people want to work.

Women

We aim to create an environment where women have equal access to employment and career success, balance family responsibilities, contribute to communities, lead healthy, fulfilling, rewarding lives and attain economic independence.

Mature age workers

Our equitable policies and practices support an ageing workforce. We also offer programs for the transition of mature age employees into retirement.

Culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds

Cultural diversity is valued and we aim to support people newly arrived to Australia. We want to attract and retain the best talent regardless of background, including culturally and linguistically diverse people.

Veterans

We welcome the contribution and skills veterans can bring to our organisation. Former service personnel can transfer the focus seen in their military work, to a commitment to caring for our communities. Similar to Australian Defence Force roles, working for local government is about serving the community. Diverse and rewarding opportunities are available at the City of Sydney.

We are committed to the health, safety and welfare of all our workers and visitors to the City of Sydney’s premises, and locations where work is being carried out.

The City of Sydney regards its work, health and safety responsibilities with the utmost importance and as such, resources are available to comply with all relevant acts and regulations.

All workers of the City of Sydney, including visitors, have a shared responsibility for contributing to the health and safety of all persons in the workplace.

WHS risk management

The City of Sydney has established and maintains a documented WHS safety management system with procedures for identifying, assessing and controlling workplace hazards.

Consultation

A health and safety committee comprising employee and management supports staff.

Employee representatives and workers are able to provide independent input into the work health and safety policy and program. Management representatives who have the necessary power to authorise committee recommendations have been appointed to the committee.

Management consults with workers and visitors when planning work to determine the most effective means of ensuring both parties fulfil their work health and safety responsibilities.

• Level access entrance from Sydney Square, ramp access from Druitt Street and ramp access or 6 steps from Kent Street
• Automatic doors at least 1010mm wide at Sydney Square entrance and at least 1020mm wide at Druitt and Kent Street entrances
• 6 public toilets, including 3 left-hand transfer accessible toilets.

One of our objectives is to engage people with purpose and seek enthusiastic and motivated young people into our entry-level program.

We’re seeking interns, cadets and graduates to work in our organisation and provide them with an opportunity to be part of the future direction of Sydney.

We’re proud to support the National Fair Internship pledge – being paid is essential to an intern, also in acknowledgment of the value they add to our workplace.

We’re committed to developing young people in trades through our apprenticeship or traineeship programs. This includes areas such as gardeners, vehicle mechanics, electricians and general business certificates.

Apprenticeships combine on the job training with vocational learning and are usually a 4-year program.

We also partner with ArtsReady, an initiative of AFL SportsReady, to provide paid traineeships for young people to get a flavour of the arts and creative industries.

Seela Lotam, an ArtsReady trainee, started a 12-month traineeship while completing a Certificate III in Business. Showing dedication and an ongoing commitment to learning, Seela now works as a business support officer at the City.

I honestly assumed I would be given very basic administrative tasks, but surprisingly found myself doing a lot more than I could ever imagine.

Seela Lotam, Business Support Officer

The traineeship is a 1-year program where trainees are supported with hands-on experience that prepares them in taking the next step in their career. Trainees will receive a nationally accredited qualification as evidence of their work.

We welcome and value applications for short-term work that aligns with either your education or interest in gaining industry experience.

To express your interest in our work experience program, please email [email protected].