How to apply

Cessnock City Council applies merit-based recruitment principles to the selection process.

The following information will help you successfully apply for a position at Council: 

Position description

The position description (PD) can be downloaded from the job advertisement. It's important to ensure you have read the advertisement and PD carefully to assess your eligibility for the role.

How to apply

We invite applicants to submit an application via our online recruitment system.

The application should include your personal details and responses to the selection criteria. You'll also be required upload your CV and cover letter prior to submitting your application.

You must respond to every criterion. Aim to write one to two paragraphs for each criterion explaining how you've demonstrated the particular skill or quality. Your response should describe your:

  • qualifications
  • skills
  • experience
  • ability to meet the requirements of the role

We recommend that you first type your answers into a word document to avoid loss of data. Copy the contents over to the online recruitment system once you're happy with your final answers to each question. 

The STAR model can help you form your answer.

What is the STAR model?

The STAR model is a method of presenting information against the selection criteria. For each criterion, use the following structure to form sentences:

Situation: Describe a situation where you used your skills/qualities and gained the experience

Task: What was your role and what did you need to do?

Action: Outline what you did and how did you it

Result: What was the outcome and what did you achieve?

If you don't have access to a computer to submit your application, you can book one for free at the Cessnock and Kurri Kurri Libraries.

For further information on the selection process, please give us a call or email recruitment@cessnock.nsw.gov.au. 

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