Strategic Planner

Sutherland Shire Council; Sydney; On-site; AUD 92,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Access to fitness passport

Employee assistance program

Annual flu shots

Health and wellbeing programme

Novated lease options

Job summary

Sutherland Shire Council is seeking a Strategic Planner to develop and implement land use strategies that promote sustainability, productivity and livability within our urban precincts. You will work in a collaborative team, contributing to long-term planning and policy development for the Shire.

The role requires proactive policy analysis, stakeholder engagement, and the ability to manage complex urban issues, with a view toward resilient, liveable communities.

Qualifications

• Tertiary qualifications in planning or a related discipline, or nearing completion of postgraduate qualifications.
• Experience in developing or implementing land use or strategic planning policies.
• Strong knowledge of environmental and planning legislation.
• Excellent report writing and presentation skills.
• A current Driver’s Licence.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and review land use planning strategies and policies, ensuring alignment with best practises.
• Conduct research and analysis to inform strategic planning outcomes.
• Draft policy papers and reports for consideration by the Council.
• Engage with stakeholders and assist with strategic planning inquiries.
• Collaborate with cross-disciplinary project teams to support integrated planning outcomes.

Skills

Research

Analysis

Stakeholder engagement

Report writing

Team collaboration

Education

Tertiary qualifications in planning or related discipline

Postgraduate qualifications near completion

Job description

Key Highlights

• Be a key player in shaping the future of Sutherland Shire.
• Engage with diverse stakeholders to drive high-impact urban planning strategies.
• Collaborate within a dynamic team focused on sustainability and liveability.
• Temporary contract for up to 12 months, available from early January 2027.

About Us

Sutherland Shire Council is dedicated to creating a vibrant and sustainable community. Our Urban Futures team is focused on innovative planning that enhances the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. We are committed to fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment where every team member can contribute to the Shire's growth and development. As part of our ongoing commitment to excellence, we are looking for a Strategic Planner to help us realise our vision for a thriving urban landscape. Join us in shaping the future of Sutherland Shire through sustainable and strategic planning initiatives.

About The Role

The Strategic Planner will play an essential role in developing and implementing land use strategies that promote sustainability, productivity, and livability. This position requires a proactive approach to planning policy and decision-making on complex urban issues. You will be working closely with a collaborative team, contributing to the long-term vision for the Shire.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and review land use planning strategies and policies, ensuring alignment with best practises.
• Conduct research and analysis to inform strategic planning outcomes.
• Draft policy papers and reports for consideration by the Council.
• Engage with stakeholders and assist with strategic planning inquiries.
• Collaborate with cross-disciplinary project teams to support integrated planning outcomes.

Who We're Looking For

The ideal candidate will bring a combination of qualifications and relevant experience in planning or a related field. You should be skilled in research, analysis, and stakeholder engagement while being able to work effectively within a team environment.

• Tertiary qualifications in planning or a related discipline, or nearing completion of postgraduate qualifications.
• Experience in developing or implementing land use or strategic planning policies.
• Strong knowledge of environmental and planning legislation.
• Excellent report writing and presentation skills.
• A current Driver’s Licence.

Application Dates

• Get your application in by 11.59pm: Sunday 1 November 2026

Interview date: Interviews will be facilitated within 2 weeks of the closing date

Remuneration

Package: $91,655 - $109,766 gross p.a. plus 12% superannuation. Salary will be determined based on the skills and experience of the successful candidate.

Hours and Contract

Hours of work: Temporary Full-Time. Working 35 hours per week. You will have the option of a 19 day month with Council's ADO system (Accrued Day Off). This opportunity is expected to be available for up to 12 months.

Benefits

• Access to fitness passport
• Employee assistance program
• Annual flu shots
• Health and wellbeing programme
• Novated lease options

Pre-Employment Screening

Suitable candidates are subject to pre-employment screening which includes Reference Checks, Work Rights Verification, Identity and Functional/Medical History Checks, and will also include a Criminal History, Qualification and Working with Children Check. Employment is subject to clearance of all these checks.

Contact

Reach out to Brianna Van Zyl, Strategic Planning Team Leader [e-mail] for any job specific enquiries. Alison Wady, Talent Acquisition Business Partner [e-mail] can assist with any recruitment related enquiries.

Child Safe & Veterans

Position Description Council is a Child Safe Organisation and is committed to ensuring the NSW Government’s Child Safe Standards are incorporated in our procedures, practices, programs, and events. Sutherland Shire Council values the skills and attributes Veterans can bring to our Council. We understand that transitioning to roles outside of Defence can feel challenging. If you're unsure where to begin or would appreciate guidance throughout the application process, please don't hesitate to contact us.