Planning Support Officer

Department: Planning & Development
Reports to: Farah Haddad, Director of Planning & Development
Location: Perth, Western Australia
Employment Type: Full-time

About the Role

Metro Council WA is seeking a motivated Planning Support Officer to join our dynamic Planning & Development team. This role offers an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career professional to gain hands-on experience in local government planning while contributing to the sustainable development of Perth's inner and middle suburbs.

As part of our ongoing digital transformation, you'll work with both traditional planning processes and cutting-edge digital tools to serve our community of 85,000 residents. This position suits someone who enjoys variety in their work, from detailed application assessments to face-to-face customer service.

You'll be joining a team of 8 planning professionals led by Farah Haddad, working in a collaborative environment where professional development is strongly encouraged. With increased development pressure due to state housing density directives, this is an exciting time to be part of planning Perth's future.

Key Responsibilities

• Application Processing: Review and assess development applications for compliance with local planning schemes and state planning policies
• Report Writing: Prepare clear, comprehensive assessment reports for planning approvals, including recommendations for approval or refusal
• Customer Service: Handle counter and telephone enquiries from residents, developers, and consultants regarding planning matters
• Site Inspections: Conduct site visits to assess compliance with approved plans and investigate planning complaints
• Digital Systems: Utilise our new digital planning platform to manage applications and maintain accurate records
• Community Liaison: Assist with community consultation processes for significant development proposals
• Research & Analysis: Support strategic planning projects by conducting research and preparing background analysis
• Administrative Support: Maintain planning files, prepare correspondence, and coordinate with other council departments

What You'll Bring

Essential: - Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Geography, Built Environment, or related field - Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to explain technical concepts to non-experts - Customer service experience, preferably in a government or professional services environment - Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and ability to learn new digital systems quickly - Understanding of planning principles and development assessment processes - Current driver's licence and willingness to conduct site inspections - Strong attention to detail and ability to work with statutory deadlines

Desirable: - Experience with GIS mapping software - Knowledge of Western Australian planning legislation - Previous local government experience - Community engagement or consultation experience

What We Offer

• Competitive Salary: $65,000 - $72,000 per annum plus superannuation
• Professional Development: Comprehensive training program and support for professional planning qualifications
• Work-Life Balance: Flexible working arrangements including hybrid work options
• Career Growth: Clear pathways for advancement within our expanding planning team
• Excellent Benefits: 4 weeks annual leave, generous personal leave, and professional development allowance
• Modern Workplace: New digital tools and recently renovated offices in central Perth
• Community Impact: Direct involvement in shaping sustainable development across Perth's established suburbs
• Supportive Team: Mentorship from experienced planning professionals and collaborative team environment

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and a cover letter addressing the key requirements to careers@metrocouncilwa.gov.au by 5:00 PM, Friday 15 March 2024.

In your cover letter, please tell us why you're interested in local government planning and how your skills align with this role. We particularly welcome applications from recent graduates looking to start their planning career.

For informal enquiries about this role, contact Farah Haddad on (08) 9485 8222.

Metro Council WA is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive workplace that reflects our diverse community.