Planning Officer

Planning Officer / Senior Planning Officer

Requisition Number: 838

Salary Range: $73, $99,589.18 per annum

Position Type: Full Time Permanent

Location: Council Chambers, 119 – 145 Spence Street, Cairns

Application Close Date: Sunday, 19 October 2025 at 11.30pm AEST

Are you ready to shape the future of the Cairns region?

We have an exciting opportunity for a dynamic and motivated Planning Officer / Senior Planning Officer to join our team

What You Will Do:

As a Planning Officer (Level 3–5), you will play a key role in assessing and managing a diverse range of development applications, ensuring high-quality, technically sound outcomes in accordance with legislative timeframes. Working within a dynamic, multi-disciplinary team, you will contribute to shaping the future of our region - balancing policy, community needs, and innovation.

As a Senior Planning Officer (Level 6), in addition to your development assessment duties, you will mentor and guide other team members, provide technical leadership, and play a key role in continuous process and business improvement across the unit. You will also represent Council in legal matters and strategic forums.

What We Are Looking For:

• Graduate or post graduate qualifications in Town Planning from a recognised university or other tertiary education institution, or equivalent.
• Current "C" Class Driver's Licence to independently drive to attend offsite meetings and inspections.
• Demonstrated knowledge of and skills in interpreting and applying the Planning Act 2016 and any associated legislation, and/or practical experience in the assessment or preparation of development applications.
• Exemplary written and oral communication skills with demonstrated ability to prepare detailed planning correspondence to a range of audiences.
• Ability to apply a risk management approach to development assessment, and facilitation of a problem solving/outcomes orientated approach to work.
• Demonstrated communication skills that develop and maintain effective working relationships with staff, customers and stakeholders.
• Demonstrated negotiation skills, including proven ability to resolve complex and technical development matters on matters relating to Council Policy, engineering matters, and/or specific development applications.

Whether you are at the start of your planning career or bring years of experience and leadership, we have the perfect opportunity for your next professional step.

Some benefits we offer:

• Achieve work / life balance with flexible working arrangements
• Fitness Passport - subsidised health and well-being memberships (gym/swimming pool)
• Recharge with up to 5 weeks annual leave
• Up to 3 weeks personal leave
• Cherish family time with up to 14 weeks paid parental leave
• Grow personally and professionally with learning and development opportunities
• Salary sacrifice opportunities

We are committed to:

• Fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment
• Embracing innovation and continuous improvement
• Cultivating a culture of professional growth and support

Now we want to hear about YOU

Applications MUST be submitted online through the 'Apply' button and include a Cover Letter addressing the selection criteria and Resume outlining previous academic and work experience and if requested include attachments of the relevant qualifications and licenses, relating to the role.

For further information about this role please download the Position Description which includes the Key Duties, Responsibilities and Selection Criteria.

Council's Recruitment Team can be contacted via:

Phone:

Email:

Website: Employment at Council | Cairns Regional Council