Daniel Wells has returned to Collingwood in a wide-ranging off-field role, which will see him split his time between the club's community and football departments.

Wells, who played 258 AFL games for North Melbourne and the Pies during a 17-year career at the highest level, began his new job on Monday.

The 34-year-old will play a key role in Collingwood's indigenous community programs and contribute to the club's recruiting and Academy programs.

He will also spend time developing the Pies' NGA zone around Tennant Creek in the Northern Territory.

"We are always keen to support our players as they transition away from playing football," Collingwood list manager Ned Guy said.

"We see this as a great opportunity for enable Daniel to gain a whole range of working experiences that will set him up for the next phase of his life.

"Daniel is a widely respected figure in the football industry and we believe he has a lot to offer our community and football departments."