Schools Officer, Grounds and Facilities - Whitfield State School, Education

Whitfield State School is seeking a dedicated and proactive Schools Officer, Grounds and Facilities to join our committed team on a temporary part-time basis 45 Hrs and 60 FTE per fortnight, until 12 December 2025 unless otherwise determined. The successful applicant will be responsible for ensuring the school grounds and facilities are maintained to a high standard, providing a safe, clean, and welcoming environment for students, staff, and the wider school community.

This role includes grounds and garden maintenance, minor repairs, event setup, and support with day-to-day operational tasks. In addition, the Grounds Officer will contribute to creating a positive school environment by supporting the smooth operation of facilities and working collaboratively with staff on school activities and events.

About Whitfield State School

Whitfield State School is a high performing primary school in Cairns, offering students with a range of specialised subjects and programs to connect students to the best versions of themselves. Our experienced staff enables us to deliver a wide range of specialised programs. We set ourselves apart by valuing each individual student and ensuring that each young person graduating from this school is well-positioned for a bright future.

Our mission is to develop responsible, respectful and resilient learners who are prepared to challenge the future.

About the Role

This is a OO2 progression position as per the Role Description. The successful applicant will be appointed to the OO2 classification with eligibility for progression to the OO3 level once specific criteria have been met. Please note salary rate shown is reflective of OO2 to OO3 classification range.  
The role involves a wide range of operational, maintenance, and support tasks across the school environment, including:

• Groundskeeping: Lawn and garden maintenance, tree/shrub care, sports facility upkeep, and maintaining groundskeeping equipment.
• Communication & Coordination: Liaising with school staff and external contractors regarding maintenance, lost property, and supplies.
• Cleaning & Waste Management: Clearing drains/gutters, collecting waste, coordinating rubbish removal, and assisting during events like fetes or sports days.
• Workplace Safety & Repairs: Maintaining a safe environment, storing chemicals safely, reporting hazards, and attending to general repairs (e.g. furniture, equipment)
• Security: Handling school security systems and locking/unlocking buildings.
• Special Needs Support: Basic maintenance of equipment for students with disabilities.

Please refer to the attached role description for any mandatory requirements for this position.

How to Apply

• Please attach a brief resume including contact details for 2 referees (referees should have an understanding of your relevant previous work history); and
• A 1-pg written statement about how your achievements and capabilities meet the requirements of the role.

We welcome all applicants to share any support needed to ensure our recruitment process is inclusive. 

Applications remain current for 12 months from the closing date and may be considered for appointment to identical or similar vacancies within the Department. 

Applications from recruitment agencies will not be accepted. 

When working in regulated employment an employee must have a current Working with Children Clearance (blue card) issued by Blue Card Services.

Salary rate shown is reflective of full-time (1.0 FTE). 

The Department of Education is a family inclusive workplace. Click here to find out more about our Inclusion and Diversity strategies. ( https://alt-qed.qed.qld.gov.au/working-with-us/induction/department/human-resources/inclusion-and-diversity#:~:text=Pathways%20to%20Parity,participate%20fully%20in%20our%20workplaces. )