About the City Development Department

This department is part of our Planning and Development Division, and is responsible for the provision of information, advice and assistance regarding municipal building services, planning permits, planning scheme amendments and rezoning.

About the role

Through evaluation and processing of planning applications, a Principal Statutory Planner plays a key role in our City’s growth. The position works with a dedicated team of professionals, providing an efficient and effective advisory service to public and other key stakeholders. As a senior member of the team, you will assess priority projects within the City of Greater Geelong and provide coaching and mentoring to junior members. Drawing on your extensive experience and knowledge for the purpose of providing high quality planning advice and contributing to new and innovative approaches will be encouraged.

There are two permanent full-time positions available.

Key responsibilities

1. Role model and promote Council values in all aspects of duty.
2. Investigate and evaluate development applications.
3. Assist with the coordination of input from various government departments and the general public to meet deadlines as set.
4. Prepare correspondence in relation to Council decisions and enquiries from the public.
5. Provide clients with a professional and up to date advisory service and assist the public with enquiries.
6. Represent the City of Greater Geelong in public forums, legal proceedings and appeal hearings.
7. Assist with and maintain appropriate administrative and information recording systems within the team.
8. Assist with, and from time to time carry out, investigations and inspections to assist clients and ensure compliance with relevant legislation, planning controls and permits.

Key selection criteria

1. Tertiary qualification in town planning or urban studies (or related field) and extensive experience in a local government town planning office.
2. Theoretical and practical knowledge and ability to interpret town-planning legislation and practices.
3. Thorough understanding of the operation of local government, the Victorian planning system and the legal process generally within Victoria.
4. Highly developed analytical, investigative and communication skills.
5. Proven experience in mentoring staff.
6. Ability to negotiate and resolve conflict.

About the City
As Victoria's largest regional municipality, the City provides the benefits of city living in a beautiful seaside location - all only 1 hour from Melbourne. We enjoy an open and inclusive culture with great employment conditions, competitive salaries, flexible work arrangements, paid parental leave, and many varied learning and development opportunities. The City is an equal opportunity employer and values the contributions a diverse workforce can bring to our community.

Applications and Enquiries
Click  the APPLY NOW button below to submit your application or find out more about this opportunity. 

Enquiries: Melissa Garrett | 03 5272 4476 | MGarrett@geelongcity.vic.gov.au