Principal Urban Planner

Position Overview The Principal Urban Planner role at Blacktown City Council focuses on leading high‑level strategic planning and environmental policy development to drive sustainable urban growth. About the Opportunity We are looking for an accomplished Principal Urban Planner to provide high-level technical expertise and leadership in the preparation of strategic land use planning policies and environmental planning instruments on a permanent, full-time basis. Why You Will Love This Role Lead city‑wide planning frameworks and strategies guiding sustainable urban growth in one of Australia’s fastest growing areas Lead the preparation of LEPs, DCPs and complex planning policies Collaborate with senior staff and state agencies to influence regional and metropolitan planning outcomes Enjoy a collaborative environment with flexible work arrangements and professional growth opportunities. What You Will Be Doing Develop, coordinate and implement strategic planning projects, policies and environmental planning instruments Provide expert advice on planning legislation and complex development matters Represent Council in the Land and Environment Court, government hearings and community consultations Mentor and guide professional planners within the team. Qualifications and Experience Degree qualifications in planning or a relevant field In‑depth work experience in urban planning or a related field Demonstrated experience preparing written documents and professional reports that communicate complex concepts in plain English to a diverse audience Demonstrated knowledge of urban planning issues and discourse supported by highly developed critical analysis and evaluation skills that inform research, report writing, decision making and other operational and strategic outcomes Proven information technology, data analysis, research, analytical and other problem‑solving skills to generate innovative solutions to sometimes conflicting objectives Demonstrated high‑level oral communication skills with the ability to liaise with all levels of internal and external customers Demonstrated high‑level negotiation and dispute resolution skills with the ability to proactively engage with all levels of internal and external stakeholders Demonstrated experience in managing complex projects relating to the urban environment, on time and within budget Comprehensive knowledge of the New South Wales Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, Local Government Act 1993 and other relevant legislation, regulations, state planning policies and instruments Current class C driver’s licence Desirable Post‑graduate qualifications in a related field Knowledge and understanding of social and affordable housing programs within a planning context Knowledge of public sector procurement, tendering and contractual dispute resolution processes, ideally within a local government context Management of private sector professional services contractors and/or consultants in a public sector context Understanding of risk management principles associated with planning and development Awareness and understanding of the application of local government financial management principles Experience using IT systems relevant to local government, including but not limited to Microsoft Office, HP Content Manager and Technology One. Remuneration and Benefits Entry level for this position starts at $2,511.14 per week 35‑hour working week Car allowance Opportunity to participate in Council’s flextime arrangement Employee benefits such as leave entitlements (where applicable), 12% employer contribution payable to your nominated superannuation fund, Fitness Passport, gym membership discounts, and social clubs. Commitment to Safety Blacktown City Council is committed to safety. Alcohol and other drug testing are introduced at the pre‑employment phase and via a series of random and cause testing. The Council is a child‑safe organisation that supports and promotes the safety, wellbeing and empowerment of children. To Apply Closing date: Tuesday 2 December 2025, 11:59 pm. Contact officer: Alex Scott, or (Internal ref: BCC2087). #J-18808-Ljbffr