Strategic Planner

We are currently recruiting for a Strategic Planner for a Local Council based in Sydney. This is a contract role until 01 July 2026 with an hourly rate of $50.51–$58.70 + super (PAYG) or $56.07–$65.16 (ABN). The role is for 35 hours per week, and WFH is available for up to 3 days per week after an initial onboarding period (first 2–3 weeks in office).

Reporting to the Team Leader, you will work as a shared resource between the Strategic Assessments and Strategic Planning teams within the City Strategy and Design Unit. You will contribute to a range of planning projects and activities that shape the future of the local area.

Key Accountabilities

• Design, develop, implement, and review planning policies, land use strategies, planning instruments, planning agreements, and Heritage Incentives Policy.
• Progress Council-initiated planning proposals and assess applicant-initiated proposals.
• Prepare and negotiate Planning Agreements to achieve optimal outcomes for Council and the community.
• Work on planning and design projects, including Development Control Plans.
• Prepare consultant briefs and collaborate with multidisciplinary consultants.
• Review Section 10.7 Planning Certificates prior to issue.
• Improve processes and systems related to urban planning and development.
• Engage with internal and external stakeholders and participate in community engagement activities.
• Implement safe work practices and manage WHS risks.
• Handle general correspondence and other tasks as required.

Candidate Requirements

• Minimum 2 years’ experience in planning, ideally within Local Council or NSW Government.
• Strong understanding of planning processes, including planning proposals, LEPs, and DCPs.
• Proven ability to deliver projects on time and within budget.
• Excellent prioritisation and deadline management skills.
• Knowledge of planning legislation, state planning policies, and planning instruments.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Understanding of urban renewal, infrastructure, and community issues within the planning framework.

This is a fantastic opportunity, so if you meet the above criteria, please submit your resume by clicking on the ‘APPLY’ button below or call Gary Ward on 02 9269 8809 for a confidential discussion.

At Chandler Macleod, we are committed to fostering a diverse workforce where everyone is welcome. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, women, people living with a disability and the LGBTIQA+ community.

You can read more about our commitment to diversity and inclusion at https://www.chandlermacleod.com/diversity-and-inclusion