Apply Now Principal Strategic Planner

The Principal Strategic Planner will work on master planning and rezoning current mine buffer land and mining land outside the footprint of mining activity, master planning of former coal fired power station sites for new employment uses and a review of the Muswellbrook Shire LSPS as a priority. The Principal Strategic Planner may also work on and mentor other strategic planning staff working on a range of land use planning tasks identified in Council’s Operational Plan, Local Strategic Planning Statement, and priorities set by the NSW Government.

The Role will operate on a 2-year term contract with hybrid work location possible.

Key Responsibilities

- Prepare land use planning studies and policy in relation to specific sites and re-development areas and present to Committees and Council as required

- Implement the Hunter Regional Plan 2041 requirements for the Muswellbrook LGA

- Update the Muswellbrook Shire Local Strategic Planning Statement 2020-2040

- Prepare briefs for the engagement of consultants undertaking planning studies for or on behalf of Council.

- Supervise and manage work being undertaken by consultants on land use planning for Council and mentor planning staff working on a range of land use planning tasks

- A bachelor’s degree in Town Planning, Environmental Engineering or related discipline and relevant industry experience.

- Contemporary industry knowledge and demonstrated experience in the preparation and review of strategic planning studies, local environmental plans and/or development control plans within the Local Government and/or urban development contexts.

- Demonstrated experience in project management.

- Minimum 5 years’ experience in a planning related role.

- Demonstrated ability to prepare reports, communicate clearly in writing and verbally, including the ability to resolve conflicting issues and multiple outcomes.

- Demonstrated ability to work both independently and in a team, within a multidisciplinary environment.

Qualifications and Experience

- Academic requirement: Bachelor’s degree in Town Planning, Environmental Engineering or related discipline

- Industry experience: Minimum 5 years in a planning related role

- Strategic planning experience: Proven track record in preparing and reviewing strategic planning studies, local environmental plans and/or development control plans.

- Project management: Demonstrated experience in managing projects and consultant work.

- Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to present to committees and stakeholders.

What we offer

- Temporary full time, 35 hours per week, Term Contract for a period of up to 2 years

- Salary from $118,849 to $127,561 per year (depending on qualifications, skills and experience) plus 12% superannuation

- Training courses and professional development opportunities

- Flexible work arrangements with access to Indoor Accrued Time (Flexi)

- 40% discount on yearly Aquatic and Fitness Centre membership for staff and families at a local facility (conditions apply)

- Access to Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for employees and their immediate family

About Muswellbrook

Muswellbrook Shire Council is a progressive local government area, located under two hours from Newcastle and Tamworth and three hours from Sydney, in the beautiful Upper Hunter Valley.

The Shire has a long history in energy generation and is one of the largest coal mining areas in Australia. As we move towards a Net Zero economy, we are at the centre of renewable energy transition and innovation.

Working at Muswellbrook Shire Council, you will be part of driving change to create a bright and prosperous future for our community, in a location which has plentiful opportunities and an enviable lifestyle.

It is a great place to grow your career and be part of something bigger – we have space for you.

Further information and to apply

- For more information on this position please contact the hiring manager Sharon Pope, Director Environmental and Planning on (02) 6549 3868.

- To complete your online application, you will be asked to upload a copy of your resume and provide responses to questions which are based on the criteria listed in the Position Description. Please keep your responses concise. Any incomplete applications will not be considered past the closure date.

- Please note that as part of Muswellbrook shire Council's recruitment process, prior to an offer of employment being made, recommended candidates may be subject to a medical assessment which may include alcohol and other drugs testing.

- Applications close on 7 November 2025 at 11:59pm.

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