Waverley Council is looking for an experienced Senior Development Assessment Planner to join our dynamic team. This is an exciting opportunity to work on complex, high-impact development applications and help ensure our community continues to thrive in a sustainable, well-planned way.

Why join us?

• Permanent full-time position (35 hours per week).
• Salary: $115,379.51 - $132,686.46 p.a. plus 12% Superannuation.
• Positive team culture and professional development opportunities.
• Community focused, not for profit, values driven service.
• Close to public transport.
• Access to Fitness Passport – discounted gym memberships.
• A supportive and inclusive work culture.
• Bondi Junction office location close to Bondi Beach, Bronte and Tamarama.
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
• Wellness that works for you! From annual skin checks and flu shots to our bi-annual health fair, we’re committed to helping you stay healthy.

As a Senior Development Assessment Planner, you will:

• Assess and manage complex development applications, ensuring compliance with statutory planning requirements, Waverley Local Environmental Plan, Waverley Development Control Plan, and Council policies.
• Prepare professional reports and provide expert planning advice to the Waverley Local Planning Panel and State Planning Panels.
• Represent Council as an expert witness in the Land & Environment Court.
• Mentor and support junior planning staff, helping build a strong and collaborative team.
• Analyse and recommend improvements to policies, systems, and procedures to drive efficiency and best practice.
• Respond to customer queries and provide advice at the Customer Service Centre from time to time.

To be successful, you will have:

• Tertiary Qualification/s at degree level in planning, architecture, urban design or equivalent.
• Extensive experience in the assessment and resolution of complex planning, heritage and urban design issues associated with development applications, preferably in local government.
• In-depth knowledge of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979, and other relevant legislation and regulations.
• Advanced negotiation and conflict resolution skills, including the ability to mediate outcomes and liaise with community focus/precinct groups.
• Experience in the Land and Environment Court of NSW.
• Ability to meet strict deadlines and to balance and respond flexibly to competing priorities.
• Excellent written and oral communication, report writing, presentation and computer and administrative skills.
• Current C Class drivers’ licence

About us

Between the city and the sea, Waverley is a vibrant, welcoming, and inspiring place to live, work and play with its diverse population, creative culture, enriching lifestyle, stunning natural features, and distinctive neighbourhoods. Waverley Council provides and supports a variety of services, programs and initiatives to sustain and improve the quality of life for the Waverley community. This includes the delivery of 22 main services and up to 150 sub-services covering a wide range of activities.

How to apply?

If you are passionate about shaping the future of Waverley and have the expertise to assess complex planning matters, we want to hear from you!

To be considered for this role, you will need to complete the following:

• A cover letter outlining your motivation for the role;
• A current resume detailing your relevant experience; and
• Complete the online questionnaire demonstrating how you meet each of the essential criteria.

Please note that pre-employment checks are part of the recruitment process

Please refer to the position description for detailed information on the position and required skills and experience. For more information contact Bridget McNamara, Manager, Development Assessment, 02 9083 8094

Waverley Council is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all candidates. We encourage applications from people from diverse groups, including, but not limited to, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people; people from culturally diverse backgrounds; young people; older workers; people with disabilities; LGBTQIA+; and other minority groups. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our People and Culture team at [email protected]

We fully support the aims and objectives of the NSW Officer of Children's Guardian and Child Protection legislation. We will implement necessary practices to ensure a safe and supported Council environment for children and young people. All staff, volunteers and contractor’s welcome child safe and child friendly practices.

How to apply: Visit waverley.nsw.gov.au/council/jobs

Applications close: 15 October 2025 @ 11:59 PM