Senior Town Planner - Development Facilitation

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Senior Town Planner for our client in Soweto, Gauteng. The role focuses on managing development applications, rezoning processes and spatial planning initiatives for diverse clients.

The candidate should have a Master’s in Urban/Town Planning, SACPLAN registration, and at least 7 years of post-qualification experience with strong knowledge of South African planning laws. GIS experience is advantageous.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Urban Planning or Town Planning.
• SACPLAN registration (PrPln or PrTSP).
• Minimum 7 years post-qualification experience in town planning.
• In-depth knowledge of SA spatial planning legislation and land use management.
• Proven experience in preparing and submitting planning applications.
• Strong analytical, research and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; negotiation and presentation.
• Ability to work independently and manage projects to deadlines.
• GIS experience is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Manage and prepare town planning applications (rezoning, consent use, subdivision).
• Conduct spatial analysis to support planning proposals.
• Interpret SPLUMA and municipal bylaws.
• Engage with clients, officials and stakeholders to facilitate processes.
• Prepare planning reports, impact assessments and submissions.
• Advise clients on feasibility, risks and strategies.
• Participate in public participation and community consultations.
• Monitor legislation and policy changes; advise clients accordingly.
• Liaise with engineers, architects and environmental specialists to coordinate inputs.
• Contribute to the growth of the planning consultancy's services.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Project management

Negotiation

Stakeholder engagement

Research skills

Education

Master's degree in Urban Planning or Town Planning

SACPLAN registration (PrPln/PrTSP)

Tools

GIS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic urban planning and development consultancy, is seeking an experienced Senior Town Planner to join their esteemed practice in Soweto, Gauteng . This role is focused on facilitating and managing development applications, rezoning processes, and spatial planning initiatives for a variety of clients. The ideal candidate will possess a thorough understanding of South African planning legislation, policy frameworks, and development processes. You will play a crucial role in navigating complex planning environments, engaging with stakeholders, and contributing to the sustainable growth and development of urban areas. This is a vital position for shaping the future landscape of Soweto and surrounding communities. Our client is committed to excellence in urban planning and offers a challenging yet rewarding career path.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and prepare applications for town planning schemes, including rezoning, consent use, and subdivision applications.
• Conduct comprehensive spatial analysis and research to support planning proposals.
• Interpret and apply the Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act (SPLUMA) and relevant municipal bylaws.
• Engage with clients, municipal officials, and other stakeholders to facilitate planning processes.
• Prepare planning reports, impact assessments, and supporting documentation for submissions.
• Advise clients on planning feasibility, risks, and strategies for development projects.
• Participate in public participation processes and community consultations.
• Monitor planning legislation and policy changes, advising clients accordingly.
• Liaise with other consultants (engineers, architects, environmental specialists) to coordinate planning inputs.
• Contribute to the strategic development of the planning consultancy's services and client base.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or equivalent qualification in Urban Planning or Town Planning.
• Professional registration as a PrPln or PrTSP with the South African Council for Planners (SACPLAN).
• A minimum of 7 years of post-qualification experience in town planning, with a strong focus on development facilitation.
• In-depth knowledge of South African spatial planning legislation, policies, and land use management systems.
• Proven experience in preparing and submitting town planning applications to various municipal authorities.
• Excellent analytical, research, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication, negotiation, and presentation abilities.
• Ability to work independently, manage projects, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement and conflict resolution is essential.
• Proficiency in relevant planning software and GIS is advantageous.

Benefits

• A competitive salary package, commensurate with experience and professional registration.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth and advancement in the planning field.
• Involvement in diverse and impactful development projects within Soweto and Gauteng.
• A supportive and collaborative professional working environment.
• Contribution towards SACPLAN membership fees and Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Performance-based bonuses.
• Generous annual leave and study leave opportunities.
• Access to a network of leading development professionals.
• Potential for flexible working arrangements in line with company policy.