About the role
As a Principal Planner, you will be experienced in your field and will play a key role at Geelong in delivering high-quality statutory planning services that support the sustainable growth of Greater Geelong.
Working within an existing team of experienced planning professionals, you will assess complex statutory planning applications, provide specialist advice including to Ministerial applications, and contribute to positive planning outcomes across one of Victoria's fastest-growing municipalities.
This senior position offers the opportunity to mentor emerging planners, represent Council in planning and community forums, including VCAT. This is an opportunity to influence and innovate on a range of planning solutions that balance community expectations, legislative requirements and the City's long-term vision.
You will be part of a customer-focused team committed to delivering excellence while helping shape a thriving, liveable and internationally recognised city - the 2nd largest City in Victoria!
Work type: Permanent Full Time
Classification: Band 7 $109, 342 pa plus super
Key responsibilities include:
- Assess and determine a diverse range of planning permit applications, including complex developments and growth area proposals, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and statutory timeframes.
- Provide specialist planning advice to customers, internal stakeholders, government agencies and the development industry while preparing high-quality reports, recommendations and correspondence.
- Represent Council in mediation, legal proceedings, appeal hearings and community forums, effectively managing negotiations and resolving planning issues.
- Mentor and support junior planners, share technical expertise, and act as Team Leader when required to maintain effective service delivery.
- Contribute to policy development, continuous improvement initiatives and the enhancement of planning systems, processes and customer service outcomes.
- Build and maintain productive relationships with the community, consultants, developers and government stakeholders to support sustainable growth across Greater Geelong.
About you
You are an experienced and motivated planning professional with extensive knowledge of the Victorian planning system and a passion for delivering high-quality planning outcomes. You thrive in a collaborative environment, confidently managing complex planning applications while providing expert advice to a broad range of stakeholders. With strong analytical, communication and negotiation skills, you can balance legislative requirements with community and organisational needs. You enjoy mentoring others, contributing to continuous improvement, and building positive relationships across teams and the wider community. You are customer-focused, solutions-oriented, and committed to supporting sustainable growth and development within the City of Greater Geelong.
Essential Experience:
- Tertiary qualification in town planning or urban studies (or related field) and extensive experience in a local government town planning office.
- Preferred candidates will be required to undergo a National Police Check as part of the recruitment process (funded by the City).
If this sounds like the role for you, then click apply now!
Child Safety Responsibilities
We are committed to being a child-safe organisation and have zero-tolerance for child abuse. We have specific policies, procedures, and mandatory training in place to support employees, volunteers, and contractors to achieve and adhere to these commitments. Please read our Child Safe Standards Management Policy.
Diversity and Inclusion
At the City we want a workforce that reflects the community we live in. We welcome and embrace everyone, all people with their own unique experiences, and support and encourage all our employees to do their best work, have equal access to opportunities and a just working environment. For this reason, we particularly welcome and encourage applications from First Nations people, people with diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, from the LGBTQIA+ community, people with disability and people of all genders, ages and diverse experience.
We are the City
From parks to offices, childcare centres to works depots, leisure facilities to the Wool Museum and waterfront, our team plays a vital role in shaping our vibrant and growing community. Our community counts on us to get the essentials right while looking for ways to go beyond. By listening, collaborating, and focusing on sustainability, we strive to do the basics brilliantly and create a lasting impact. If you’re ready to be part of something bigger, join us in shaping the future of Geelong.
We support accessibility and encourage discussions about any adjustments or support you may need during the recruitment process.
Applications and Enquiries
Click the Position Description link to view more information about this position.
Enquiries: Hugh Griffiths, Team Leader Statutory Planning | 5272 4458 | HGriffiths@geelongcity.vic.gov.au
Click the Apply button to submit your application or find out more about this opportunity. If we can assist you with any reasonable adjustments in order to submit your application for this role, please contact the Talent Acquisition team via email at careers@geelongcity.vic.gov.au noting your preferred method of communication and contact details and a member of the team will be in touch.
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