Maitland City Council

Senior Development Planner

The Opportunity:

City Council is seeking an experienced Senior Development Planner to join our Development Planning team on a temporary, part-time basis.

In this senior role, you will assess and manage a range of complex development applications and planning matters, providing well-considered advice that supports quality development outcomes across the Maitland local government area. You will apply your technical planning expertise and sound judgement to interpret relevant legislation, planning instruments and Council policies, while working collaboratively with applicants, consultants, internal stakeholders and the broader community.

The role provides specialist advice and support to other members of the team, contribute to the continuous improvement of development assessment processes, and prepare clear, accurate reports and recommendations.

This is a six-month temporary contract, working 24 hours per week or 48 hours per fortnight. There may be flexibility in how the part-time hours are worked, subject to operational requirements.

About you:

To succeed in this role, you will be an experienced development planning professional with the technical knowledge and confidence to assess complex development proposals and provide clear, practical advice.

• Degree qualifications in Town Planning or a related discipline
• Significant experience assessing complex development applications
• Strong working knowledge of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act and relevant planning legislation
• The ability to interpret planning controls, identify key issues and provide sound recommendations
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills
• A current Class C driver licence

Benefits:

This is a temporary, part-time role for six months, working 24 hours per week, with a full-time equivalent salary range of $116,437 to $129,245 per year, plus 12% superannuation. The salary will be paid on a pro-rata basis according to the hours worked.

Council also offers a range of other benefits for its employees, including:

• Flexible work arrangements
• One extra week of "My Leave" a year (to use how you like!)
• Ongoing training and development
• Fitness Passport
• Healthy Employee Program

To apply:

To apply for this opportunity, please click 'Apply Now' and submit your resume and cover letter.

Questions:

To view the role charter click 'Apply Now'. If after reading the role charter you have any questions, please contact Kristen Wells, Manager Planning & Development 02 4934 9702

Applications close: Friday 16th October 2026

Only candidates with current Australian work rights (Australian citizens, permanent residents, NZ citizens with a current passport, valid work visa) will be considered.

What happens next?

Once applications close, we will review all candidates' details against the role requirements and will be back in touch with you to advise the status of your application.

Please note, prior to an offer of employment being made, recommended candidates will be required to undertake a medical assessment (including drug and alcohol testing). Council also completes a range of other pre-employment checks which may include reference checks, psychometric testing or a criminal history check. For more information about the recruitment process, visit the "Jobs at Council" page on our website.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Maitland City Council is dedicated to providing a workplace that is inclusive and supportive and is reflective of the diverse community we serve. We support equal opportunities for all employees, and encourage applications from people from all cultures, nationalities, identities, and abilities. We believe all employees have the right to feel valued, respected and heard. If you have any special considerations or accessibility requirements, please let us know in the recruitment process how we are able to meet your needs.

If you require special assistance, or have any questions about the recruitment process please contact us for a confidential conversation ([email protected])