Senior Resource Consents Planner - Queenstown/Wānaka (QLDC)

Lakes District Council is at the very heart of a dynamic community. Our services are essential to the people in our region and include infrastructure development, community recreational facilities and planning, building and other regulatory services.

We’re proud to be QLDC, and in response to the growth the district has experienced over recent years, QLDC has itself experienced substantial growth. We genuinely believe in developing our people and providing them with all the tools and opportunities needed to succeed.

About the role:
You’ll join a close-knit team of planners in the most beautiful and fun environment in Aotearoa. You will process resource consent applications (both land use and subdivision), particularly more complex applications. A key focus, making sound recommendations on decisions in accordance with the requirements of the Resource Management Act and the District Plan. Appointed as the senior to a number of applications, you will provide technical guidance, review the planner’s recommendation, and exercise decision making under Council’s delegations.

Responsibilities of the role:

• Assisting with the administration of the QLDC District Plans (operative and proposed) including the processing of resource consent applications and drafting of decision recommendations for both landuse and subdivision consents.
• Decision making on notification and non-notified decisions.
• Preparing and presenting evidence for Council at hearings, mediation and Environment and other Court hearings (where required).
• Providing mentoring, training, advice and guidance to other planning staff.
• Establishing ongoing dialogues with customers and key stakeholders and be proactive in building strategic alliances consistent with QLDC’s vision.

What we offer:
We are proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package that supports your health, wellbeing, and professional growth, including:

• Southern Cross Wellbeing One Plan
• Discounted membership to our health and fitness facilities
• Hybrid working practices
• Genuine commitment to your training and career development

What you'll bring:
You’ll have significant knowledge and practical application (5+ years) of the Resource Management Act 1991 and allied legislation, in particular processing and/or making applications for resource consent (both land use and subdivision) and interpreting a District Plan.
To best succeed in this role, you’ll have:

• Tertiary degree qualification in Resource Management/ Urban Planning (related discipline considered where can show on the job planning experience in areas covered by a district plan).
• Membership of the NZPI or equivalent, or eligibility for membership
• Problem solving mindset, ability to think strategically, pragmatically and outside the box
• Ability to lead others
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Full driver’s licence

To apply, please follow the link or for any questions please contact Kenny Macdonald, Team Leader - Resource Consents on [email protected]

Applications close: Friday 28th March

Please note we will review and process applications as they come through; we encourage your early application.