Client-Facing Town Planner — Lead Projects & Guidance

Instep Planning; Nelson Bay; On-site; AUD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

InStep Planning, based in Nelson Bay, NSW, is seeking a full-time or part-time Town Planner with 3–5 years’ experience to work directly with clients on projects across Port Stephens, Newcastle, the Hunter and broader NSW.

You will manage your own projects from initial advice to assessment, with guidance, aiming for clear communication and practical planning outcomes. We value collaboration and opportunities to develop your skills within a supportive team.

Qualifications

• A recognised tertiary qualification in town planning or related discipline.
• 3–5 years of professional planning experience.
• Strong knowledge of the NSW planning system.
• Excellent research and report-writing skills.
• Ability to interpret architectural plans and supporting technical reports.

Responsibilities

• Manage allocated planning projects from initial advice through to application coordination and assessment.
• Prepare planning advice, due diligence assessments and Statements of Environmental Effects.
• Assess proposals against relevant NSW legislation, environmental planning instruments and development controls.
• Liaise with clients, councils, architects, engineers and specialist consultants.
• Coordinate supporting documentation and responses to requests for further information.
• Undertaking site inspections and maintaining accurate project records.
• Managing project scopes, budgets and timeframes, with support from the Director.
• Contributing to social impact assessments, CPTED reports and strategic planning projects under appropriate guidance.

Skills

Project management

Report writing

Analytical skills

Client liaison

NSW planning knowledge

Education

Tertiary qualification in town planning

Tools

NSW Planning Portal

Job description

InStep Planning, based in Nelson Bay, NSW, is seeking a full-time or part-time Town Planner with 3–5 years’ experience to work directly with clients on projects across Port Stephens, Newcastle, the Hunter and broader NSW.

You will manage your own projects from initial advice to assessment, with guidance, aiming for clear communication and practical planning outcomes. We value collaboration and opportunities to develop your skills within a supportive team.