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Job Title


Principal Planner (Ballarat or Geelong)


Company : Department of Transport and Planning


Location : Ballarat, Australia


Created : 2025-05-26


Job Type : Full Time


Job Description

About The RoleThe usual place of work will be based in Ballarat or Geelong, depending on operational requirements and candidate preference.The Principal Planner will provide high-level technical land use planning expertise to inform the delivery of complex planning and priority projects for government. The position will also assist with the delivery of complex planning projects, including scoping, review, and assessment of projects. The Principal Planner will mentor, coach, and guide project teams.To access the Position Description, please click here.We are seeking a strategic and adaptable leader with proven expertise in project delivery, stakeholder management, and critical thinking. The ideal candidate will drive cross-government collaboration, guide strategic planning, and communicate with impact to influence outcomes and deliver innovative, values-aligned solutions in a dynamic environment.Position Outcomes / AccountabilitiesProvide high-level technical land use planning expertise to inform the delivery of complex planning projects, including mentoring, coaching, and guiding project teams.Lead and drive the delivery of complex planning projects, including scoping, monitoring overall project performance against plans, and ensuring objectives are met.Maintain standard practices and processes for managing projects to reduce risks and manage costs, in line with departmental or government standards.Identify emerging issues and ensure appropriate responses, including risk analyses and report preparation for consideration by senior management and stakeholders.Provide authoritative advice to senior management on complex project issues, prepare detailed reports, business cases, Cabinet submissions, Ministerial briefings, discussion papers, and legislation, demonstrating an understanding of policy, political, and legal contexts.Work flexibly and collaboratively across the business to deliver departmental priorities and initiatives.Practice cultural safety by creating environments and relationships free from racism and discrimination.Other duties may be assigned consistent with employment classification, skills, and capabilities, in line with Section 31A of the Public Administration Act 2004 (Vic).Qualifications And ExperienceMandatoryA relevant tertiary qualification in Planning or a related field.Thorough knowledge of the planning system.Proven technical leadership skills, including providing strategic advice and guidance in a complex environment.Exceptional conceptual and analytical skills to address policy issues and provide strategic direction.Experience in delivering complex land use planning projects in the public or private sectors.Role Specific RequirementsDrivers License.Occasional evening, weekend work during emergencies, and regional or interstate travel.What We OfferMeaningful work improving Victorian communities.Professional growth opportunities within the department and public service.A hybrid working model focused on collaboration.Flexible work arrangements for work-life balance.Opportunities to work across multiple urban and suburban hubs.A safe and inclusive culture.Culture ValueWe are an equal opportunity employer, embracing diversity and prioritizing a safe, inclusive, high-performance culture that aligns with our strategy and empowers employees.How To ApplyClick the Apply button to be redirected to the application platform. For issues, click here for a quick reference guide.Applications close at 9 pm on Thursday, the 5th of June 2025. Please include a resume and cover letter. Applications must be submitted online; email or manual applications are not accepted.For further information, contact Redd Peters, Planning Support Officer at redd.peters@transport.vic.gov.au.Preferred applicants may need to complete a police check and other pre-employment checks. The department will handle all information confidentially. Please notify us of any accessibility needs during the recruitment process. #J-18808-Ljbffr