Coordinator Open Space and Environment

Public Sector People; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Bayside City Council is seeking an experienced open space and environmental leader to guide a multidisciplinary team in shaping the municipality's open space, biodiversity and climate resilience priorities.

You will develop and implement strategic plans and policies, oversee capital and program delivery, and collaborate with Councillors and community partners to translate priorities into tangible outcomes for residents and visitors.

Qualifications

• Experience leading open space and environmental programs.
• Background in local government or similar environment.
• Experience developing strategies, policies and programs that balance environmental priorities with community needs.

Responsibilities

• Lead a multidisciplinary team responsible for strategic planning and delivery of open space, environmental and sustainability programs across Bayside.
• Develop and implement strategies and policies relating to open space planning, biodiversity, coastal management, and climate resilience.
• Oversee capital projects, ensure programs are delivered within budgets and timeframes.
• Engage with Councillors, community groups, volunteers, government agencies and internal teams to build relationships and support informed decision-making.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Open space planning

Environmental management

Biodiversity/Climate resilience

Budgeting

Contract management

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Tertiary qualification in Environmental Management or related field

Job description

Bayside City Council is one of Melbourne's most attractive coastal municipalities, known for its beautiful beaches, parks, open spaces and vibrant local communities.

Council is committed to delivering high-quality services, protecting its unique natural environment and creating welcoming, connected and liveable spaces for residents and visitors.

This presents an exciting opportunity for an experienced open space and environmental professional to play a key leadership role in shaping Bayside's future, enhancing its valued public spaces and delivering positive outcomes for the community.

About the Role

Reporting to the Manager Open Space and Recreation, you will lead a multidisciplinary team responsible for the strategic planning, development and delivery of open space, environmental and sustainability programs across Bayside.

A key focus will be developing and implementing strategies and policies relating to open space planning, biodiversity, coastal management, environmental sustainability and climate resilience, ensuring Council's priorities are translated into practical outcomes for the community.

You will oversee a diverse portfolio of strategic initiatives and projects, balancing environmental protection, community expectations and long-term planning priorities. This includes guiding open space development, managing capital projects and ensuring programs are delivered effectively within agreed budgets and timeframes.

The role also has significant stakeholder engagement responsibilities, working closely with Councillors, community groups, environmental volunteers, government agencies and internal teams to build strong relationships and support informed decision-making.

Importantly, you will provide leadership and direction to a team of technical specialists, building capability, encouraging collaboration and driving continuous improvement across the service.

About You

You are an experienced open space or environmental management professional who combines strong strategic and technical expertise with the people leadership skills required to manage a diverse portfolio.

You will bring a sound understanding of open space planning, environmental management, biodiversity or climate resilience, ideally gained within local government or a comparable environment.

Experience developing strategies, policies and programs that balance environmental priorities with community needs will be highly regarded. A strong background in project delivery, contract management and budgeting will enable you to confidently oversee competing priorities and deliver sustainable, high-quality outcomes.

Importantly, you will be a collaborative and approachable leader who enjoys developing people, building team capability and creating a positive, accountable and supportive working environment.

Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills will be essential, along with the ability to navigate complex issues, influence outcomes and build trusted relationships with Councillors, community groups and external agencies.

Tertiary qualifications in Environmental Management, Natural Resource Management, Horticultural Science, Parks Management or a related discipline will be required.

Application Process

Public Sector People is partnering with Bayside City Council to recruit this opportunity on behalf of the Open Space and Recreation team.

Applications close Monday 1st December 2026.