• Temporary, full-time role (up to 5 months), starting January
2026.
• Gain valuable experience to progress your career in planning &
development assessment, within a supportive and close-knit
team.
• Fitness Passport and discounted gym and aquatic centre
membership.
Are you a customer focused, planning para-professional? Or are you a new graduate looking to kick start your planning career in local government? An exciting opportunity exists at The Hills Shire Council for a suitability experienced paraprofessional or emerging town planner to join our Customer Services Team’s Development Advisory Service as a Planning Portal Officer. This position is responsible for the efficient and timely vetting of incoming applications submitted to Council through the NSW Planning Portal in accordance with relevant Council operating procedures, Acts, Regulations, and policies of State Government. The position also provides internal and external customer services (in person, on phone, and in writing) related to Portal and non-complex development matters.
Working with us:
At The Hills Shire Council, we live our values of Honesty, Integrity, Loyalty, Leadership and Safety through the work that we perform for the Community. We are committed to a positive and supportive workplace culture where our people and customers feel respected and valued. Council also prides itself on being a Child Safe Organisation that is committed to promoting the health, safety, welfare and wellbeing of children and young people in our community.
What this role looks like:
• Resolve customer phone and online enquiries.
• Review incoming development applications.
• Maintain the development tracking system.
• Maintain NAR (Name & Address Register).
• Process customer transactions.
What we are seeking in our new team member:
• Certificate IV in Local Government (Planning) or equivalent.
• Sound understanding of NSW Environmental Planning Instruments
• Sound understanding of Development Assessment Process
• Demonstrated experience in using the NSW Planning Portal
• Demonstrated experience in Plan Reading
Benefits of working with us:
Temporary, full-time position for up to 5 months (May 2026). Competitive rates of pay at $81K p.a. + Superannuation, paid weekly, opportunity for bonus payments, discounted membership to Waves Fitness & Aquatics Centre, Fitness Passport, free on-site undercover parking, onsite café, modern office, and an active Social Club.
Next steps:
Please review the Position Description available on Council’s Careers Page, Careers at Council and submit your application online via Careers | The Hills Shire Council (nsw.gov.au) by 5pm on 22 December 2025. As applications will be assessed upon receipt, early submission is encouraged, and you may be contacted prior to the closing date.
You can also request adjustments throughout the recruitment process to set you up for success. If you require any adjustments to be made or if you need any other assistance with submitting your application, please feel free to contact the HR team at hr@thehills.nsw.gov.au. People with disabilities, who meet the selection criteria, are encouraged to apply.
Offers of employment will be subject to following pre-employment checks: Psychometric Testing, Reference Checks, Identity Check, Medical checks (including Drug and Alcohol Screening), Working With Children (where applicable), and Criminal History. We assess applications on merit and suitability related to the inherent requirements of the position. Only people with the right to work in Australia may apply for this position.
