Principal Planner

Principal Planner
Location: Hurstville, NSW
Salary: $115,113.49- $133,373.50 + Super + Leaseback /Car Allowance
Work Type: Full Time, Permanent
Public Sector People on behalf of Georges River Council

Drive high-impact planning outcomes in one of Sydney’s fastest-growing urban regions.

Public Sector People are delighted to be partnering with Georges River Council to recruit an experienced and driven Principal Planner. This is a senior opportunity to lead on major development assessments and legal proceedings while providing expert planning advice and driving continuous improvement across the planning function.

Key Responsibilities:
Reporting to the Coordinator Development Assessment, you will:

• Lead the assessment of major and complex development applications
• Represent Council as an expert witness in court proceedings
• Support development assessment staff with mentoring and specialist guidance
• Ensure statutory compliance and contribute to planning policy improvements
• Attend planning panels and deliver high-quality reports and advice
• Drive process and system improvements for planning efficiency and quality
• Contribute to a culture of collaboration, performance, and professional excellence

• Tertiary qualifications in Town Planning or related discipline
• Extensive NSW development assessment experience
• Expert knowledge of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979
• Experience acting as an expert witness in the Land and Environment Court
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including negotiation and mediation
• Ability to manage competing priorities and solve complex planning challenges
• A collaborative and proactive approach to continuous improvement
• Postgraduate qualifications in Urban Design, Heritage or Environmental Management (desirable)

• Opportunity to lead on strategic, high-profile development matters
• Progressive team environment with a customer-first focus
• Values-driven culture and flexible work arrangements
• Centrally located in the vibrant and growing St George region
• Take advantage of Council benefits including:
  • hybrid working arrangements
  • wellness perks including flu vaccinations and free counselling
  • ability to partake in council’s Flex Fit Scheme including 9-day fortnight, based on operational requirements
  • access to council leave entitlements including long service leave after 5 years