Planning Assessment Officer

About the Opportunity

This isn’t your typical entry-level planning role. If you’re after more than just checking boxes on cookie-cutter applications, read on — because we’ve got something different.

We’re Cessnock City Council and while you may not have considered us before, what we do offer is genuine variety, hands-on experience, and the kind of planning challenges that truly shape careers. We’re looking for a Planning Assessment Officer to join our small but capable team. Whether you’ve just graduated or are finishing your degree in Town Planning (or a similar field), this is your opportunity to jump into real work with real impact. Follow this link to find out more: Position Description

What You'll Actually Be Doing:

• Assessing a diverse range of development applications – residential, commercial, industrial, rural, and tourism-focused projects.
• Working with complex and interesting constraints like biodiversity, bushfire risk, and flooding.
• Collaborating with a team that values practical solutions and knowledge-sharing.
• Engaging directly with applicants, consultants, and community members.

What You Bring:

• A degree in Town Planning (or you’re in your final year of study).
• A problem-solving mindset and strong attention to detail.
• Some experience is great, but if you’re starting out, we’re happy to teach.

Why This Role is Worth It:

• Variety. No two applications are the same – you’ll learn fast and learn a lot.
• Depth. Exposure to a wide range of development types and planning issues.
• Supportive team. Small team = more responsibility, more mentorship, and real input.

This is a re-advertised position. Previous applicants need not reapply as their applications have already been considered.

Remuneration

$85,156 - $97,929 per annum plus superannuation 

*Please note these rates of pay will increase by 3% from 5 July 2025*

The Benefits

• Full-time position 35 hours per week
• Flexible work arrangement options including hybrid work arrangements, option of nine-day fortnight or monthly RDO
• 12.5% superannuation 
• Salary packaging option of novated leasing available for permanent staff 
• Generous leave entitlements including Long Service Leave after 5 years
• Paid Parental Leave
• Ongoing training and development opportunities including access to Council's Study Assistance program
• Generous corporate fitness program for you and your immediate family members 
• Weekly Health and Wellbeing programs held on site
• Free flu vaccination program
• Lease back vehicle - Full private use available
• Free parking on-site
• Beautiful location in the picturesque Hunter Valley! 

Ready to Start Strong?

We’re offering growth. If you want to be a planner who can handle complexity, think independently, and make a difference, apply now - Because this could be the role that sets you apart! 

Your candidate suitability is determined by your responses to the selection criteria questions, for more information on how to address the selection criteria please visit our How to apply page.

Pre-Employment Screening

Please note, prior to an offer of employment being made, recommended candidates will be required to undertake a medical assessment (including drug and alcohol testing) and other pre-employment checks, such as references, employment history checks, working with children checks or a criminal record check.

About Us

At Cessnock City Council our success is built by our people and core values. We offer you a direct connection to the community, providing opportunities to both inspire growth and sustainability in our diverse region. We're committed to building a passionate and inclusive workforce. 

We are committed to the value of respect, and we strive to have an inclusive workforce that is reflective of the diverse populations we serve. We welcome applications from qualified individuals of all ages and genders, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people from culturally diverse backgrounds, the LGBTQIA+ community, veterans and people with disabilities.

We partner with the Veterans Employment Program and the NSW Government to implement recruitment practices dedicated to supporting veterans to pursue a career in local government. Our aim is to support veterans finding suitable, sustainable and meaningful employment.

There are options available to request adjustments. If you need any adjustments to be made to the recruitment process or if you would like to discuss any accessibility requirements, please contact recruitment@cessnock.nsw.gov.au for a confidential discussion.

Applications Close: Thursday 10 July 2025 at 11:30pm

Who to Contact: Sarah Hyatt, Development Services Coordinator, on (02) 4993 4219

You must have the right to live and work in Australia to apply for this position.

Guided by staff values of integrity, respect, teamwork, accountability and excellence, Cessnock City Council is indeed an attractive, thriving Council and employer of choice.