Senior Heritage Officer, Major Projects

Department of Transport and Planning; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Department of Transport and Planning in Victoria seeks a Senior Heritage Officer, Major Projects to represent Heritage Victoria in managing heritage places affected by major government projects. You will provide objective heritage advice across planning, approvals and project delivery, including permit assessments.

The role leads complex permit assessments, prepares reports, represents Heritage Victoria at hearings, and builds stakeholder relationships across government, industry and the

Qualifications

• List A tertiary qualification in heritage-related discipline, such as architecture, conservation, engineering, planning, archaeology, landscape or horticulture, with experience in heritage conservation (mandatory).
• A strong understanding of heritage conservation and management, including the philosophical and practical issues affecting Victoria’s most significant heritage places and the Heritage Act 2017.
• The ability to understand and anticipate economic and political trends, assess their implications for major projects and consider emerging issues and long‑term impacts.

Skills

Communicates with clarity and impact

Resilience and sound judgement

Future-focused mindset

Critical thinking and problem-solving

Proactive and collaborative

Education

List A tertiary qualification in heritage-related discipline

Understanding of heritage conservation and management

Ability to anticipate economic and political trends

Job description

About Us

We create thriving places and connected communities. We plan, build and maintain Victoria’s transport, planning and land services. We are committed to a safe, inclusive and high-performing workplace. We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and are committed to creating a safe, inclusive workplace where our people can thrive and do meaningful work.

About the role

This is a Fixed Term Position until 30 June 2027. The Senior Heritage Officer, Major Projects represents Heritage Victoria in managing heritage places affected by major government projects. The role provides objective heritage advice across planning, approvals and project delivery, including permit assessments, Environmental Effects Statements, site visits and statutory compliance under the Heritage Act 2017. The role leads complex permit and exemption assessments, prepares reports and advice, represents Heritage Victoria at hearings and project meetings, and builds strong stakeholder relationships across government, industry and the community. It also supports team development, identifies emerging risks, contributes to policy, and promotes a culturally safe, collaborative and high-performing workplace.

What we’re looking for

• Communicates with clarity and impact, tailoring key messages, advice and communication styles to different audiences and decision‑making needs.
• Demonstrates resilience and sound judgement, remaining calm under pressure and taking decisive action to resolve challenging situations.
• Has a future‑focused mindset, aligning priorities with broader organisational goals, staying current with best practice and embracing relevant technologies and developments.
• Applies strong critical thinking and problem‑solving skills, interpreting guidelines, identifying information gaps and developing practical solutions to complex or unfamiliar issues.
• Is proactive and informed, using sound judgement and collaboration to make well‑considered decisions and achieve effective outcomes.

Qualifications and experience

• List A tertiary qualification in a heritage-related discipline, such as architecture, conservation, engineering, planning, archaeology, landscape or horticulture, with experience in heritage conservation (mandatory).
• A strong understanding of heritage conservation and management, including the philosophical and practical issues affecting Victoria’s most significant heritage places and the Heritage Act 2017.
• The ability to understand and anticipate economic and political trends, assess their implications for major projects and consider emerging issues and long‑term impacts.

Pre-employment checks and employment conditions

Relevant pre-employment screening and reference checks will be required. Applicants must be an Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or hold a valid work permit or visa necessary for the nature of the position. Recipients of Victorian Public Service (VPS) voluntary departure packages should note that re-employment restrictions apply.

For further information about the role, please contact Jessica Hood, Principal Heritage Permits, at [email protected]

Important information

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