Senior Planner: Lead Projects & Mentor Team

Central Otago District Council; Alexandra; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working arrangements

An active social club

Learning and development opportunities

Supportive team culture

Wellbeing programme

Additional leave

Job summary

Central Otago District Council in Alexandra is seeking a Senior Planning Officer to lead complex planning work and mentor staff within the Planning team. This permanent, full-time role focuses on delivering high-quality planning outcomes while balancing development with the protection of Central Otago's natural landscapes.

You will combine technical planning expertise with sound decision-making and strong client engagement to support responsible growth across the district.

Qualifications

• Experience across land use, subdivision, heritage, and industrial/commercial development matters.
• Ability to make or support planning decisions with sound judgement.
• Mentor and develop staff to strengthen team capability.
• Commitment to delivering high-quality, professional advice to customers and stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Urban and rural land use and subdivision development oversight.
• Heritage building and precinct protection guidance.
• Industrial and commercial development project management.
• Decision-making on planning matters and mentoring staff.
• Providing practical, solutions-focused advice to customers and stakeholders.
• Support the Planning team to balance development with landscape protection.

Skills

Strong planning experience

Sound judgement

Collaborative approach

Mentor staff

Clear communication

Community-minded

Job description

Central Otago District Council in Alexandra is seeking a Senior Planning Officer to lead complex planning work and mentor staff within the Planning team. This permanent, full-time role focuses on delivering high-quality planning outcomes while balancing development with the protection of Central Otago's natural landscapes.

You will combine technical planning expertise with sound decision-making and strong client engagement to support responsible growth across the district.