Strategic Project Manager

About the position

The Strategic Projects Manager will work in partnership with State and Federal Governments, across Council and with industry to manage a range of critical projects aimed at supporting the economic transition of the Muswellbrook Shire.

Reporting to the Director of Community and Economy the position will be required to project manage time dependent mining impacted land use and future fund projects to achieve commercial and economic objectives for the Shire. The position will inform policy reform to progress outcomes identified in the Beneficial and Productive Post Mining Land Use Inquiry including the BHP Muswellbrook pilot project.

Key Responsibilities

• Project Manage all aspects of a number of critical land use and commercial projects which involve strategic planning, infrastructure planning, market sounding and economic feasibility.
• Lead the delivery of master planning outcomes for identified sites including coordinating the preparation of land use planning studies in partnership with project partners.
• Provide expert planning, mining and/or economic advice and prepare reports and milestone updates to all levels of the project governance framework.
• Develop and maintain productive working relationships with a range of internal and external stakeholders to achieve negotiated outcomes and secure agreement on project deliverables and engage with the community.
• Proactively identify issues, barriers and constraints to achieving project and land use outcomes, and develop innovative solutions.
• Undertake commercial assessments including site due diligence and development feasibility, identify land use opportunities, economic supply and demand analysis and commercial staging strategies.

Read the Position Description and learn more about this exciting opportunity.

About you

• A Bachelor's Degree Town Planning, Property Development, Economics or related discipline and relevant industry experience.
• Contemporary industry knowledge and demonstrated experience in the preparation and review of strategic planning studies, the Local Government and/or urban development contexts.
• Demonstrated experience in project management.
• Demonstrated understanding of the economics of industrial land development.
• Contemporary working knowledge of relevant legislation, including but not limited to the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979 and the Mining Act 1992.
• 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, fostering an environment based on teamwork and collaboration, within a multidisciplinary environment.

What we offer

• Temporary full time, 35 hours per week, Term Contract for a period of up until 31 December 2027
• Salary from $142,143 to $160,365 per year (depending on qualifications, skills and experience) plus 12% superannuation
• Training Courses + Professional Development
• 40% discount on yearly Aquatic and Fitness Centre membership for staff and families at local facility (conditions apply)
• Access to EAP program 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 Shaelee Richards, Director Community and Economyon .
• If you need assistance or an adjustment when submitting your application please contact Human Resources on or via email
• 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 22 October 2025 at 11:59pm.

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