How to Apply

Person sitting at desk preparing job application

The Process

Search, find, prepare and apply

You have found the job you are looking for, and we know you are excited to apply, so let’s make sure you have got everything ready before you start! Review the position description (PD), and create a standout resume.

You will need a valid email address, access to a computer and internet access to apply for a position. Public Access Computers (Internet, MS Office) are available at the Libraries in Coonabarabran, Coolah and Dunedoo. Please check Council’s website for opening hours.

You will be contacted by email in regard to the progress of your application, so remember to regularly check your email!

Position descriptions

Please download and read the position description before applying.  The position description outlines the qualifications, skills and experience required for the position and the essential criteria must be met if you are to fulfil the duties and responsibilities of the position.

Positions are offered on basis of merit and the applicant considered to be the most capable of successfully performing the duties of the position will be selected, in accordance with Council’s policy of equal employment opportunity.

Completing your application

You have reviewed the position description, updated your resume, completed your cover letter and saved copies of your qualifications — it’s time to apply!

  • Head to our recruitment portal and click on the position you are applying for.
  • You will be asked to submit your contact details — triple check these as this is how we will contact you with updates on your application.
  • Complete the selection criteria — these are based on the capability framework. They help us to understand how you respond to certain situations in the workplace. Try to provide specific examples of when you have done what the criteria is asking. Once you start your application it can be saved and completed later, however we recommend you prepare your responses offline in a separate document and cut and paste your answers when you are able to complete the application. Note: Fields marked with a red asterisk* are mandatory. 
  • After completing the responses, you will be required to upload your résumé, cover letter and copies of relevant qualifications.
  • Click submit!

Once you have clicked ‘confirm’ to submit your application, you will receive an email to confirm your application has been received. If you have any questions, you can get in touch with us on 02 6849 2000or email careers@warrumbungle.nsw.gov.au.

Shortlisting

The selection panel will review all applications for the role against the selection criteria and decide who to move on to the next stage of the process - which may be a preliminary interview, a group assessment exercise (usually only where there are a large number of applicants) or straight to the interview. If no suitable applicants are identified Council may decide to re-advertise. If this happens, and you still feel that you would be a suitable applicant please review your application and try to provide more information so we can identify you as a stand-out applicant!

The interview

Next, you will be invited for an interview either in person or virtual. We will tell you more about us and what to expect and ask you questions that relate to capabilities that are critical to the role you are interested in. Don’t forget, this is your chance to make sure we are the right fit for you too!

If you struggle with interview jitters, try listening to this podcast for some helpful suggestions.

Reference checks

We will conduct employment reference checks with 2 of your referees. Your referees should be people you have reported to in recent roles.

Pre-employment checks

From here, the preferred candidate will be asked to complete some pre-employment checks and a pre-employment medical or pre-employment medical declaration, depending on the role.

Warrumbungle Shire Council is proud to be an EEO employer and a Child Safe organisation.

You get the job!

We are ready to give you a formal job offer! We will work with you to find the right start date and start connecting you with your new team.

Tips and Tricks

Want to know more? Read our frequently asked questions, or get in touch.

Your application

  • Review the position description and make sure you’re across the role and you meet the selection criteria.
  • Complete the selection criteria, which help us understand how you respond to certain situations in the workplace.
  • Try to provide specific examples of when you've done what the criteria is asking.


Your resume

  • Your resume isn’t simply a list of your job history – it’s your opportunity to sell yourself.
  • Make it brief, clear and consistent
  • Show your personality through the design
  • Only include necessary information
  • Avoid writing in the first or third person
  • Triple-check spelling and grammar
  • Be professional
  • Include important details like your email and phone number.


Before the interview

  • Do your research to find out as much as you can about the company and the job field
  • Practice answering questions using the STAR method – write down your experience and examples and speak them out loud
  • Confirm all the interview details beforehand, such as timing and location.


During the interview

  • Use the STAR method to help avoid buzzwords and fillers like um, ah and slang. Impress your interviewer by telling your story
  • Use ‘I’ instead of ‘we’ to demonstrate the part you played and how you took ownership
  • Dress the part so you’re looking sharp and professional
  • Be honest, enthusiastic and passionate about your abilities – why are you the best fit?
  • Be aware of body language, maintain eye contact and keep arms/legs uncrossed
  • Ask questions! This is your change to decide if we’re the right employer for you.


After the interview

  • We'll share the next steps and when you'll receive feedback on your interview and if you'll be progressing to the next stage of the process
  • Make sure your referees are aware you’ve provided us with their contact information and that they're comfortable to act as your referee
  • Spend some time reflecting on what you think went well and what you'd try differently next time.


Back to top