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Behind the Scenes: Demystifying Entry-Level Council Trainee Jobs!

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to work in local government (spoiler: it’s more exciting than you think), you’re in the right place. Council trainee jobs are the ultimate launchpad for anyone keen to kickstart their career straight out of school, and the best part? No uni required! 

In this blog, we’re diving headfirst into the world of council trainee jobs at Mornington Peninsula Shire Council. You’ll get the inside scoop on what a day in the life actually looks like, the teams you could work with, and why this kind of hands-on experience is a game-changer for your future career. 

From discovering the many paths into local government jobs, to learning how trainees get mentored, supported and set up for success, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council is showing us how rewarding jobs with local council really are. So, whether you’re fresh out of Year 12, taking a gap year, or rethinking your next move, council trainee jobs offer a chance to build skills, earn a qualification, and explore a wide range of career paths; all while getting paid! 

Group selfie in bushy outdoors

A Day in the Life – What Trainees Really Do at Council 

So, what does a day in the life of a council trainee actually look like? For starters, no two days are the same, and that’s what makes it so exciting! From admin work to community projects, and everything in between, council trainee jobs at Mornington Peninsula Shire Council are packed with variety, learning, and real-world experience. 

When working a council trainee job with the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council, you’ll be met with tonnes of exciting opportunities (one of which is being able to work with a diverse range of teams and people)! Everyone in the organisation is super supportive and willing to help guide you towards the right career path for you. What’s more, every day you’ll learn something new and network with others in the organisation to expand your knowledge and get a feel for what the Shire is really like.  

Whether you’re curious about Mornington Peninsula Shire Council jobs or wondering what kind of tasks come with jobs with local council, this is where you’ll get the full scoop on what it’s like to be in the thick of it; read on to hear what council trainee jobs look like, straight from the pros at Mornington Peninsula Shire Council! 

Question: What Does the Workday of a Council Trainee Look Like? 

Answer: As a trainee, you are allocated a team as your home base; this is the area you spend most of your time in when you are not doing a rotation. Trainees can work in tonnes of different teams, such as the library, art gallery, animal shelter, IT, people & culture, infrastructure services, water and coasts, community-based departments and many more.  

A workday for a trainee within the Shire could be admin-based work, site visits or catching up with the fellow trainees. As a trainee, the most important thing is meeting new people from different areas and learning about what they do; this is something that happens every day! 

Question: What Makes this Council Traineeship Different From a Classroom Environment? 

Answer: The main difference between a traineeship at the Shire and a classroom environment is that every day is different (and that there’s something for absolutely everyone)! If you’re interested in something specific, it’s more than likely that you can find the perfect team where you can follow your passion and where your ideas and perspectives are heard. Plus, everyone within the Shire is passionate and loves what they do, so you are always surrounded by support and encouragement to improve.  

During the traineeship, you also complete a Certificate 4 in Business. As you’ll be applying the knowledge you gain from your studies directly to work, it’ll make it much easier to pick up different concepts and absorb all the information you need.  

Joe Collins smiling at computer desk

What Kind of Support is Available to Council Trainees Throughout the Program?

During your time as a trainee  with the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council, you’ll be assigned a supervisor from your home base who’ll guide you through your new day-to-day routine and help you settle in. You’ll also be matched with a mentor (outside of your home base) who you can meet with at any time to talk about any wins or challenges.  

This support system is in place to help you grow and find the area that suits you best. Trust us, as a new starter, you’ll appreciate having someone there for support and to help you feel comfortable in a brand-new environment. Alongside your supervisor and mentor, you’ll also have a trainee coordinator who helps with all the background work like rotations, development days, support, and advice; they’re great at making sure your experience at the Shire is the best it can be.  

How Does the Council Help Trainees Build Confidence, Independence, and Professional Skills? 

The Shire offers trainees development days, which you’re bound to love. During these sessions you’ll meet with fellow trainees and a development coordinator to work on identifying your personal challenges, strengths and how you become more confident, independent. They’ll even help you develop your professional skills!  

The Shire also provides a range of online and in-person training. These training sessions can be super helpful to new starters who haven’t worked in local government before (or even someone who just wants to expand their skills and experience). The training offered by the Shire is never ending; they have courses on the digital tools used regularly like Microsoft Team, Outlook and TechOne, Introduction to local government (which helps provide more insight to the Shires role) and so many more resources to help guide a trainee.  

What Have Supervisors Noticed About Personal and Professional Growth in Past Trainees? 

Some common feedback from supervisors is that the trainees have been open to trying new things and aren’t afraid to have a go! Many also demonstrate the ability to take initiative and problem solve if they find themselves struggling with something.  

Trainees have also shown they’re not afraid to ask questions and always keep up a positive and curious attitude in regard to the tasks assigned to them. They take every opportunity that is handed to them and give it their all, and show willingness to learn and grow every single day. 

young female trainees

A Career Launchpad – Why a Traineeship is a Great First Step 

If you aren’t quite sure what’s next after Year 12 (or you feel like University sounds okay, but you’re itching to get out into the real world, start earning, and learn on the job), we hear you, and you’re not alone. 

That’s where council trainee jobs come in. These hands-on roles offer the perfect mix of learning and earning, all while building serious skills that’ll set you up for any future path. Whether you’re aiming for full-time work, further study, or still figuring it all out, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council jobs give you the tools, training, and confidence to take your next step and absolutely smash it. 

So, if you’ve been on the lookout for local government jobs or jobs with a local council that actually lead somewhere, this is your sign. Let’s unpack why a traineeship could be your ultimate career springboard. 

Question: What Skills or Qualifications do Trainees Build by the End of the Program? 

Answer: Over the course of 12 months, trainees complete a Certificate 4 in Business with Chisholm. This course relates to the work done at the Shire and provides the trainees with the opportunity to apply their learning to the workplace. What’s more, training courses are provided year-round through the Shire (which a trainee can request to attend to further their skills, knowledge, and background).  

In terms of skill-building, every day is a learning experience in Mornington Peninsula Shire Council jobs. You’ll be learning everything you need to be successful, from learning to touch type, to using multiple Microsoft and SaaS+ platforms, planning events, organising meetings, and taking on projects! 

Question: How has the Traineeship Helped Past Participants Move Into Full-Time Work? 

Answer: Some past trainees have secured full-time jobs within the Shire. After all, the traineeship provides them with valuable on-the-job experience and a clear pathway into a role that perfectly aligns with their training!  

However, regardless of whether you’re looking for a full-time gig, you’ll be treated as a valued team member from the very start of your traineeship. This makes it much easier to build strong professional relationships and put your best foot forward. Plus, the environment you’re in allows you to demonstrate your skills in a real-life setting (which is fundamental to securing permanent full-time employment, as work ethic and capabilities are seen in real time).  

Sarah and Ava wearing fur skin cloaks

Earn While You Learn 

Trying to find a great role after finishing school can be stressful, especially if you aren’t sure whether you should go to university or get further education. However, the traineeship program really is the perfect opportunity to explore different avenues and do something a little out of the ordinary!  

Working a council trainee job gives you the opportunity to work in a safe, supportive environment where every day is a learning experience. Plus, you’ll get the chance to work alongside some amazing people. Local government jobs are a chance to do something different everyday whilst making an impression on those around you (which is great for opening up future career opportunities). 

Coming out of the traineeship, you will have experience in admin, customer service, community engagement and a range of other skills. Trust us, there’s nowhere else you could learn this much in just 12 months! So, why not earn money while you learn? 

Ready to Explore Council Trainee Jobs for Yourself? 

From learning on the job to building confidence, meeting awesome people, and finding your place in a passionate team, council trainee jobs with Mornington Peninsula Shire Council are a seriously smart move for your future. 

Whether you’re looking to explore your interests, get real-world experience, or make an impact in your local community, jobs with your local council offer something for everyone. Plus, you’ll walk away with a nationally recognised qualification, loads of new skills, and maybe even a long-term role in one of the many local government jobs. 

Keen to take the next step? Check out Mornington Peninsula Shire Council’s Careers Page to learn more and apply today! Your future in council starts now, so don’t miss out!

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