Full Time / Ongoing

Salary range $118,640 - $138,352 + Superannuation

Shape the future of South Australia’s fastest growing communities.

At the City of Playford, growth isn’t just happening, it’s being carefully planned, negotiated and delivered to create liveable, prosperous, sustainable and happy communities.

We’re looking for a Principal Planner – Major Projects to take the lead on the region’s most complex and high impact developments. From major greenfield growth areas to large scale urban projects, this role is at the centre of shaping how our city evolves.

This is a unique opportunity to step into a senior, influential position where you will work directly with developers, state agencies and internal leaders to drive outcomes that balance growth facilitation, infrastructure outcomes and community needs. You will be a trusted advisor, a skilled negotiator, and a key decision maker on projects that leave a lasting legacy.

If you’re looking for a role where you can step beyond process and into genuine influence, this is it.

Why this role?

As the Principal Planner – Major Projects, you will operate at the centre of high impact development, working on complex major projects assessment and management across rapidly growing areas within the City of Playford. You won’t just assess applications, you will lead outcomes, negotiate with key stakeholders, and guide projects with subject matter experts from concept through to delivery.

What you will get to do:

You’ll have the autonomy and trust to:

• Lead major and complex developments through negotiation and facilitation that genuinely transform existing communities and create new communities.
• Influence infrastructure outcomes and long-term growth planning.
• Work directly with developers and state agencies on high value, high visibility projects.
• Drive and be accountable for projects progression, outcomes and alignment with Council strategies and guidelines.
• Mentor others and contribute to the growth of the council area in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.

 What you will bring:

• Proven experience assessing and managing complex and high impact development applications, including Greenfield and Brownfield developments.
• Strong knowledge of planning legislation and statutory assessment processes.
• Negotiate and influence matters of significance with internal and external stakeholders to proactively shape sustainable and well-considered communities that promote liveability, prosperity and happiness.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and drive projects through to delivery.
• Sharp and sound professional judgement and the ability to navigate complex, sensitive or high-risk matters.
• Exceptional communication skills and the ability to build trusted relationships with stakeholders at all levels.
• A collaborative mindset, with a willingness to mentor and share expertise.
• Experience drafting and negotiating legal agreements, including Infrastructure Agreements and Land Management Agreements associated with complex developments within growth areas.

What’s in it for you?

• Work on projects that leave a lasting legacy in the community.
• Being a key driver for complex and high-risk matters and shaping planning outcomes through expert advice, negotiation and decision making.
• Be part of a collaborative, supportive and forward-thinking team.
• Flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance.
• A values-driven organisation committed to your professional growth.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.

More Information

Further information on the role accountabilities, and essential and desirable criteria can be found in the attached Position Description.

For a confidential discussion or to obtain additional information, please contact Leif Burdon, Manager – Planning Services on (08) 8256 0321 or 0439 097 757.

How to apply.....

Simply complete the application process by clicking the "Apply Now" button and we'll be in touch.

Applications will close at 12pm on Tuesday 5^th May 2026

Apply now and help lead the future of our community!

The City of Playford values diversity and work life balance. If you require any reasonable adjustments to be made to support you in submitting your application including alternative vacancy formats and application options, please refer to the Manager's contact details above. Any information provided will be kept confidential and will only be used to support your access to fully participate in the recruitment process.