Flexibility and Fulfilment: Designing Your Dream Job as a Parent

We’re passionate about connecting parents with employers who understand the challenges and ambitions of their employees, and more importantly, provide the necessary support. We can’t help but use the term ‘dream job’ when talking about opportunities with these companies – simply because we know we work with the best and they really are dream jobs!

But do you know what your dream job looks like?

Everyone’s version is going to be different of course, and we acknowledge that what we perceive as a great fit may not always be the case. Some may consider the perks of a nice office with a gym and wellbeing benefits to be high on the priority list. Or a job that challenges and provides development opportunities for growth. For others, it might be finding purpose or the freedom of flexibility to fulfil their version of work-life balance. Whatever it looks like, being able to articulate what you want from your next job will go a long way in helping you to find it (within reason of course!).

To help define what you’re looking for (after considering industry, skills, salary etc), consider asking yourself:

What would a typical day in this dream job look like for you, from the moment you wake up until the end of the day?

What types of teams do you enjoy working with?

How do you see yourself thriving?

What’s the personality type of the boss or manager you see yourself working with?

It’s a good idea to then start researching companies of interest to determine if their values and culture align with your wish list. You can do this via the company website or social media pages, as well as reaching out to your network to speak with any past or present employees. The more a company makes information about them as an employer available, the more invested they are likely to be in their employees, and a great place to work.

A fantastic example is our Featured Employer, Ventia. We’ve worked with Ventia since 2018 to promote a diverse range of opportunities in multiple industries and know first-hand how committed they are to providing a work environment that supports flexible work arrangements and the general well-being of others.

Want to know what we consider a dream role at Ventia?

Suitable for a parent returning to the workforce and looking for part-time hours or perhaps stepping back from full-time work, the Jandakot WA office has an opening for an experienced Commercial and Business Manager. Besides joining a close-knit team of five (3 are direct reports) you’ll be a pivotal member of the Venture Smart leadership team. Venture Smart is a 50/50 joint venture between Ventia and Johnson Controls (JCI) providing electrical and Intelligent Transportation System maintenance and project works and services for Main Roads WA and other private clients.

“We’re a close-knit team with a lot of collaboration and support,” says Alexa Ford of Ventia. “And flexibility is the norm, whether it’s around young family commitments, older parents or personal interests.”

Looking for flexibility? This role has the ability to tailor your hours around the times that suit you.

Looking for professional development? Ventia has this covered too with access to Ventia’s Essential Leader Program and Ventia’s Women Leading program.

What about perks? Ventia provides a number of them including well-being programs, discounted health insurance and gym memberships and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

This is an incredible role with an incredible organisation – but don’t just take our word for it. Check out the full job description here and start your research via Ventia’s website and LinkedIn page to see for yourself before putting in an application.

For more opportunities with Ventia, visit our Featured Employer page here.